It took only five games for Jamie Malonzo to lose his job.
Kyoto Hannaryz announced that it is releasing the former Barangay Ginebra forward after failing to make an impact in his first five games in the ongoing season of the Japan B.League.
In a statement on Friday, Kyoto stressed that releasing Malonzo to free agency is necessary as “the club continues to face challenges” in its quest for the title.
“Jamie Malonzo is a wonderful person who has worked hard every day to adjust to his new environment. While this is a difficult decision, we appreciate your understanding,” the club said after Malonzo posted forgettable numbers of 1.2 points and 1.0 rebounds in just 6.2 minutes of action in his first five games.
Kyoto is currently negotiating with a new naturalized or Asian player and will provide updates once the deal is finalized.
The development is such a major blow to Malonzo’s career. After a lengthy absence due to calf injury, Malonzo made a return and was tapped to play for Gilas Pilipinas in the FIBA Asia Cup in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia last July.
But before the tournament ended, the Hannaryz made a surprise announcement, saying that they have already signed the 6-foot-7 forward to a contract that would make him eligible to play in the B.League.
Philippine Basketball Association commissioner Willie Marcial said Malonzo can’t immediately rejoin the Kings as he is covered by the three-year ban imposed on players who leave the league to play elsewhere.