Malonzo bids Kings sayonara

Jamie Malonzo will be bringing his talent to Japan after signing with Kyoto Hannaryz in the B.League.

The Hannaryz made the announcement, saying that the 29-year-old former De La Salle University will be part of their team when they kick off their campaign on 3 October.

Malonzo, who is in Jeddah to see action for Gilas Pilipinas in the FIBA Asia Cup set from 5 to 17 August, expressed his gratitude for the warm welcome given to him and for the opportunity to become the latest Filipino to play in one of the toughest leagues in Asia.

“I’ve received from the entire Kyoto Hannaryz family. It’s an honor to join such a passionate team and community in Japan,” said Malonzo, who is set to leave Barangay Ginebra after being part of the squad that challenged San Miguel Beer in the semifinals of the Philippine Basketball Association Philippine Cup recently.

“First, I want to thank the team management for believing in me and giving me this incredible opportunity. Your support means a lot, and I’m eager to contribute to our success this season.”

Aside from Malonzo, other Filipinos seeing action in Japan are Kiefer Ravena of the Yokohama B-Corsairs, Dwight Ramos of the Levanga Hokkaido, Ray Parks of Osaka Evessa, Kai Sotto of Koshigaya Alphas, AJ Edu of Nagasaki Velca, and Matthew Wright of Kawasaki Brave Thunders.

Malonzo will be leaving the Kings, who signed him to a two-year deal in 2023, a year after acquiring him from NorthPort in exchange for Arvin Tolentino and Prince Caperal.

He blossomed under the system of Ginebra coach Tim Cone in which he emerged as part of the Mythical Teams in 2023 and 2024. He is coming off a successful campaign following a lengthy absence due to calf injury.

“I am genuinely excited about what lies ahead, and I can’t wait to hit the court with my teammates, bringing energy and determination to every game,” said Malonzo, who celebrated his birthday on Thursday.

“I’m looking forward to building strong connections with all of you, both on and off the court, and helping to elevate the basketball culture in Kyoto.”

Kyoto, which had Wright as foreign player, is in the West division of the B.League in which it went 33-27 win-loss record to miss the playoffs of the recent season.