LA Tenorio open for James Yap’s return to Magnolia

New Magnolia head coach LA Tenorio is open to former rival and PBA legend James Yap returning and finishing his career where it all started.

In an interview with Sports Now, Tenorio said he is prepared to make space for the Magnolia legend, but clarified that there have yet to be discussions between both parties regarding a return.

“With regards to James Yap’s status, I think it’s a big boost also for the team or for the organization if gusto mag-retire ni James sa Purefoods or sa Magnolia,” Tenorio said.

“So far kasi wala pa mga talks about it. Definitely I’ll let everyone know kung ano man lang magiging development dyan,” he added.

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FAREWELL TOUR SA MAGNOLIA?

Magnolia head coach LA Tenorio said he’s open to the possibility of James Yap returning to the team for his ‘last dance’.

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— Fastbreak (@fastbreaknewsph) October 9, 2025

Tenorio, who was once a rival of the former MVP during his time at Alaska, shared that Yap and he have stayed in touch and play pickup games from time to time.

“Nakikita ko naman si James. Nakakalaro ko pa sa basketball sa mga pick-up games niya si James,” he said.

“Sabi ko naman sa kanya… actually nag-usap kami last time na naglaro kami. He can talk to me or he can ask me,” Tenorio added. ““But again, if makausap niya ako, then I have to talk to the management also about it and the organization.”

Tenorio grabbed the first win of his Magnolia coaching career after trumping his former team Barangay Ginebra San Miguel last Sunday.

Meanwhile, Yap, who last played with Blackwater, recently played in the Fil-Chi Athletic Association, where he steered the Lamtex Pipes to a championship.

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