Yap is back after taking a leave of absence to focus on his foray into politics.
James Yap returned as if he never left. Well, at least in the second quarter.
With 6 minutes and 41 seconds remaining in the first half of their PBA Governors’ Cup match against Meralco, the Rain or Shine winger entered the court and the crowd welcomed him with a rousing applause.
Yap, who took a leave of absence from basketball in late 2021 to focus on his foray into politics, wasted no time in making his presence felt.
Off the screen, the two-time PBA MVP drove right then made a bank shot while drawing a foul from Chris Newsome. He canned the bonus free throw.
A possession later, he followed it up with a jumper to the delight of the fans at the PhilSports Arena, which included his fellow hoopers-turned-politicians from San Juan councilors Paul Artadi and Don Allado, and Mayor Francis Zamora.
Within that stretch, San Juan’s first district councilor already dropped 12 points including the 3-pointer from way beyond the arc to end the first 24 minutes of action.
Before the game, the former University of the East stalwart bared he felt like a rookie.
“I’m very excited. Feeling ko rookie ako uli. Eto yung nararamdaman ko noong 2004,” said Yap, who was drafted 2nd overall that year. “Excited, kinakabahan. Pero kumbaga, laro lang. Wala namang naiiba, basketball pa rin ito.”
But Meralco spoiled his “Welcome Back” party as the Bolts cruised to a 105-87 win behind KJ McDaniels’ 27-point and 23-rebound effort.
The 6-foot-3 swingman ended up with 14 points and a rebound in 14 minutes of play.