Add RJ Abarrientos to the growling list of Pinoy Asian imports in the free agency market.
RJ Abarrientos’ stint with the Shinshu Brave Warriors in the Japan B.League is over.
Shinshu announced on Thursday, June 20 that the team has mutually agreed to part ways with the Filipino guard.
Shinshu is one of two teams, alongside the Toyama Grouses, that are relegated to the B.League second division after finishing as the two bottom teams last season.
[ALSO READ: B.League: Toyama, Shinshu demoted to B2 after tough 2023-24 season]
Abarrientos had a decent campaign with the Brave Warriors averaging 7.8 points, 1.7 rebounds, and 2.4 assists in 49 games for his first year in Japan.
Shinshu, however, finished the season with a 10-50 record.
Abarrientos spent his first year as a pro in the Korean Basketball League (KBL) and immediately made a name for himself, winning the 2023 KBL Rookie of the Year with Ulsan Hyundai Mobis.
During his lone year with the Phoebus, the 24-year old averaged 13.3 points on 34.4 percent shooting from deep, alongside 4.8 assists, 2.8 rebounds, and 1.3 steals in 56 games played.
After being released by Ulsan Hyundai, the spitfire 5-foot-11 guard signed with the Brave Warriors.
[NEXT: TRACKER: Where to next for these Filipino Asian Quota Players?]
For the meantime, he will be returning to the Philippines to suit up for Strong Group-Pilipinas. He will be joined by Ange Kouame--they are both former players for Tab Baldwin under Gilas Pilipinas.
Abarrientos will also be joined by fellow Pinoy Asian Quota import Rhenz Abando.
[ALSO READ: Ange Kouame, RJ Abarrientos join Strong Group bound for 2024 Jones Cup]