Rain or Shine retires Gabe Norwood's No. 5 jersey. PBA Media
MANILA – After retiring from the PBA, two-time champion Gabe Norwood has been exploring life outside the court.
Norwood played his last game for the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters in their loss against the Meralco Bolts in the PBA 50 Philippine Cup quarterfinals last December 2025.
The former Gilas Pilipinas team captain took on media duties during the second window of the FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers last month.
Norwood shared what it was like to be on the other end of interviews, after being the one answering questions during his career.
"I mean, it's tough. It's tough being a leader that's not too far removed. Even, you know, the last two games, having to ask players questions fresh off of a loss is tough. I know I hated answering questions right after a loss, no matter if, or even a win. You know, you want to celebrate or you want to drown in your sorrows type of situation," he told ABS-CBN News.
Norwood said having experience as an athlete gave him a different perspective, but he's still getting used to being in the media.
"So I think just trying to be present and mindful of the way I deliver a question, but still doing my job and getting information as well. So it's still a balancing act," he shared.
PBA: Gabe Norwood proud to see Rain or Shine’s success
When asked if entering media was something he had in mind before retirement, Norwood said he's had some experience after majoring Journalism in George Mason University.
"I mean, I grew up in the whole sports center, ESPN era of, you know, my childhood. And, you know, watching the Stuart Scotts and stuff like that. I thought it would be fun. I never thought I'd do it," he said.
"I'd hope I'd get to play forever. But, you know, I'm excited. I'm excited to be able to have access to these events and to share stories, to continue to build relationships with other journalists as well and continue to learn," Norwood added.
The Elasto Painters honored Norwood by retiring his No. 5 jersey during halftime of their game against the Converge FiberXers last Friday.
Rain or Shine went on to win the game, 120-111, honoring Norwood with their sixth straight win, their best start in franchise history.
"It's crazy. I don't know how many players go into their career and have their jersey retired. I'm blessed! I'm blessed to have played for one franchise my whole career, be respected, be loved by management and have a team that's supporting me this whole time," he told reporters.
Norwood said he's focused on spending more time with family and being the "best dad" as he figures out what's next.
For now, the two-time PBA champion will still be around rooting for Rain or Shine, as they remain the only undefeated team in the Season 50 Commissioner's Cup.
FROM THE ARCHIVES