Willie Marcial explains the only path for Jamie Malonzo to return to the PBA

Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) powerhouse Barangay Ginebra San Miguel suffered a significant blow ahead of the ongoing Philippine Cup after star forward Jamie Malonzo made a surprise exit from the franchise.

Malonzo initially signed with Japanese B.League club Kyoto Hannaryz, but his stint was short-lived, appearing in just five games before being released.

Speculation has since arisen about a potential return to the PBA. However, a recent PBA Board resolution, which took effect in Season 50, bars any player—including rookies—who move overseas from returning to the league for three years. The Office of the Commissioner has confirmed that Malonzo is subject to this ban.

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PBA commissioner Willie Marcial reiterated his stance on enforcing the three-year rule, though he noted that the final decision rests with the league’s Board of Governors.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR JAMIE?

Just five games into the B.League season, Kyoto Hannaryz have parted ways with Jamie Malonzo, placing the 6’7″ forward on the free agent list in an early roster change.#Bリーグ #bleague pic.twitter.com/PiEDcH8ljl

— One Sports (@OneSportsPHL) October 17, 2025

“May ruling ‘yun. Three years. ‘Yun nga ‘yung sinasabi namin sa kanila, kailangan anuhin niyo ‘yung kontrata niyo para mas maging pabor din sa inyo—para sa inyo rin ‘yung three years eh. So, naka-ban siya. Hindi siya makakalaro within three years. Inabutan nun, si Jamie at si William Navarro. ‘Yung dalawa na ‘yun ang naabutan. Kaya nga sinasabi ko sa players, pag-isipan niyo para maayos,” Marcial said.

“Sa akin, firm ‘yun. Pero depende pa rin sa governors. Appealable naman lahat ‘yan eh. Depende pa rin sa governors,” he added.

Despite the speculation surrounding a PBA return, Malonzo is focused on continuing his career in Japan, exploring opportunities with other B.League clubs. In the immediate term, his priority is representing the Philippine national basketball team as Gilas Pilipinas prepares for the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers.

Malonzo remains fully committed to the national team as he awaits his next club opportunity. Fans will be closely watching when Gilas Pilipinas begins its FIBA World Cup 2027 Asian qualifying campaign against Guam in home-and-away fixtures on November 28 and December 1.

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