Gabe Norwood Bids Goodbye: Rain or Shine Captain Set for ‘One Last Flight’

on
by Lou Reyes

Rain or Shine veteran superstar Gabe Norwood announced this season will be his last in the PBA.
Rain or Shine veteran superstar Gabe Norwood announced this season will be his last in the PBA. Photo: Facebook

After 17 memorable seasons, Gabe Norwood, one of the PBA’s most respected veterans and the face of Rain or Shine’s golden years, has officially announced that the 2025 PBA Philippine Cup will be his final tour of duty.

In a heartfelt video posted on Rain or Shine’s official social media pages titled “One Last Flight,” the 40-year-old captain reflected on his journey with gratitude and grace. 

“The journey has been nothing short of incredible,” Norwood shared. “I’ve poured everything I had into this game, and in return, it’s given me more than I could ever ask for.”

Norwood’s story has always been one of quiet leadership and unwavering loyalty. From being the No. 1 overall pick in the 2008 PBA Draft to becoming a two-time PBA champion, his legacy is etched in Rain or Shine’s history books. The 6-foot-6 forward was a cornerstone of the franchise’s 2012 Governors’ Cup and 2016 Commissioner’s Cup title runs, earning a reputation as the team’s defensive anchor and emotional leader.

Before his pro career, Norwood first gained international attention as part of George Mason University’s Cinderella run to the 2006 NCAA Final Four, a chapter that set the tone for his fearless brand of basketball. When he brought that same intensity to the Philippines, he became more than just a star; he became a symbol of professionalism and heart.

Gabe Norwood (5) had been an integral part of the Gilas Pilipinas program.
Gabe Norwood (5) had been an integral part of the Gilas Pilipinas program. Photo: FIBA.

Beyond the PBA, Norwood’s contributions to Gilas Pilipinas remain unforgettable. He was a vital part of the 2013 FIBA Asia silver-medal team that ended the nation’s decades-long drought in World Cup qualification, highlighted by that unforgettable semifinal win over Korea at the Mall of Asia Arena. He later proudly donned the national colors in the 2014 FIBA World Cup, where his poster-worthy dunk against Argentina became an instant classic.

Now entering the twilight of his playing career, Norwood has already begun his transition into coaching, lending his basketball mind to the Gilas Youth program in recent international tournaments.

As the Philippine Cup unfolds, fans will be watching every minute of Gabe’s final campaign — not just to see him defend, pass, or soar, but to celebrate a career defined by class, loyalty, and leadership.

Here’s to Captain Gabe Norwood — taking one last flight before hanging up the sneakers.