The Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) witnessed the end of an era last Monday, December 29, 2025, as veteran star Gabe Norwood played the final game of his illustrious professional career.
Playoff Exit Marks Final Bow
Norwood's farewell game came during the PBA Philippine Cup quarterfinals, where his long-time team, the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters, saw their championship run conclude. Despite entering the series as the No. 2 seed with a twice-to-beat advantage, the Elasto Painters were defeated in back-to-back games by the resilient Meralco Bolts. Meralco's comeback victory clinched the series and eliminated Rain or Shine from the tournament, making Norwood's last professional outing a bittersweet moment.
A Legacy of Leadership and Respect
Norwood, widely celebrated as a leader and role model throughout his career, received heartfelt tributes from the basketball community following his final game. His impact extended far beyond statistics, leaving a lasting mark on teammates both on and off the court.
Long-time teammate Beau Belga, who shared the court with Norwood for 15 years, took to social media to honor his friend. "It was such an honor being your teammate for 15 years," Belga wrote. He highlighted their shared journey, which included 2 championships, multiple finals and semifinals appearances, and countless memories.
The Close of a Storied Chapter
The December 29 game not only marked the end of Rain or Shine's Philippine Cup campaign but also the closing chapter for one of the league's most respected figures. Norwood's career is defined by consistency, sportsmanship, and unwavering dedication to his team. His retirement signifies a significant shift for the Elasto Painters franchise and the PBA landscape as a whole, as they move forward without one of their foundational pillars.
