SMART CLARK GIGA CITY--It was not only James Yap who added another feather to his cap as Gabe Norwood also made a breakthrough in his decorated PBA career.
The Filipino-American player hauled down his 3,000th career rebound in Rain or Shine's 80-74 stunner over TNT for the last quarterfinal spot in the PBA Philippine Cup Tuesday night.
The 12-year league veteran unlocked the achievement after he pulled the ball down off Simon Enciso's three-point miss at the 10:30 mark of the fourth quarter.
Norwood became only the 52nd local player and 55th overall to reach the mark. He is also one of the only eight active players who have the same achievement.
It was the former Gilas Pilipinas standout's fourth rebound of the game that marked the milestone. He finished with five boards. ROS coach Caloy Garcia congratulated his veteran forward.
"Another thing today si Gabe 'di ko alam na 3,000 rebounds. I don't even know how many games Gabe already played for Rain or Shine," said Garcia.
"Any achievement is always a positive in anybody's career. I'm happy for him."
Norwood also contributed nine points, three steals and an assist in the Elasto Painters' second straight win that kept their twice-to-beat bid alive