As part of its youth movement, Rain or Shine is letting go of veteran James Yap following a sorry finish in the Commissioner's Cup of the Philippine Basketball Association.

The Elasto Painters expressed their gratitude to the 41-year-old Yap, who has been with the franchise since its early days in the defunct Philippine Basketball League.

He joined the PBA in 2004 and won seven titles with the Magnolia franchise, including a rare grand slam in 2014 under noted mentor Tim Cone.

Then, he returned to Rain or Shine in 2016 before taking a two-year leave of absence in 2021. Last year, he suited up for the Elasto Painters anew in what appears to be his last hurrah with the franchise.

"From his early days with Welcoat in the Philippine Basketball League to becoming an integral part of the Rain or Shine family in the PBA, James Yap had left an indelible mark on our franchise," the team said in an announcement.

"We look forward to the legacy you will continue to build in the next games of your life. A million thanks are not enough to express our gratitude. More power always, Big Game James!"

In a social media post, Yap said he asked for his release from the Elasto Painters.

"I want to extend my gratitude to the team's managtement for graciously approving my request for release and allowing me to move forward to begin the next chapter in my life," Yap said.

"I will always be grateful for all the memories and the lessons we went through together."

News of Rain or Shine letting go of Yap was no longer a surprise.

In a previous conversation with Daily Tribune, Rain or Shine coach Yeng Guiao hinted at a possible changing of the guard as they are set to put premium on the development of young guns like Leonard Santillan, Anton Asistio, Andrei Caracut, Luis Villegas, Adrian Nocum, and top choice Keith Datu.