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| Former Ginebra forward Jamie Malonzo. Photo: PBA Images. |
The high-flying forward has officially signed with Kyoto Hannaryz of Japan’s B.League, as announced by the team. Kyoto competes in the league’s West Division and ended their previous campaign with a 33-27 win-loss record.
Jamie Malonzo shocks us all with his move overseas.
— Barangay Ginebra San Miguel (@brgyginebraphl) July 31, 2025
While it's tough to see him go, we’re grateful for everything he gave to Ginebra—three unforgettable years and two championships that will live forever in our memories.
Soar high, Jamie.
Once a King, always a King. 👑… pic.twitter.com/vC2QogFnl6
Malonzo spent the last three seasons with Barangay Ginebra, following a noteworthy PBA debut with NorthPort, who selected him as the second overall pick in the 2021 Rookie Draft. In a blockbuster trade in September 2022, Malonzo was sent to Ginebra in exchange for multiple assets, including Arvin Tolentino and Prince Caperal.
With the Gin Kings, Malonzo quickly became a key contributor, helping the team secure the 2022–23 Commissioner’s Cup title. His performance that season also earned him a spot on the Mythical Team, highlighting his growing reputation as one of the league’s most dynamic two-way players.
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| Jamie Malonzo (3) goes up for a layup. Photo: PBA Images. |
However, the momentum he built was interrupted by a calf injury early in 2023. Though he eventually returned to action, his form didn’t quite reach the explosive level fans had grown accustomed to. In the most recent season, Malonzo averaged 11.4 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 1.8 assists over 37 games.
His move to Kyoto signals a fresh chapter and a chance to rediscover his full potential in a competitive international league.
GINEBRA NOT STOPPING JAMIE
— ABS-CBN News (@ABSCBNNews) July 31, 2025
While head coach Tim Cone admits disappointment over Jamie Malonzo’s move to Japan, he said they won't hold back a player seeking to "better his situation."
Read: https://t.co/POQTJSAyQZ pic.twitter.com/iZsMkmc8Wc
Despite heading overseas, Malonzo remains committed to the national cause. He is currently included in the Gilas Pilipinas pool for the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup qualifiers. However, following this window, his next appearance for the national team under Coach Tim Cone will likely come during the November window of the FIBA schedule.
Malonzo’s transition to the B.League adds to the growing list of Filipino players making their mark in Japan, and his fans back home will be eager to see how he adapts and thrives in this new environment.