VETERAN Gabe Norwood achieved a new career milestone in his 15th season with the Rain or Shine franchise.
The 38-year-old Fil-Am became the latest member of the league's 5,000-point club, achieving the feat when he scored the first four points in the first quarter of the Elasto Painters' PBA Commissioner's Cup game against TNT last Jan. 5 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum which the team won, 119-112.
Norwood's achievement was recognized Friday night at halftime of the quarterfinals between Rain or Shine and San Miguel at the Philsports Arena.
Commissioner Willie Marcial handed the former Gilas Pilipinas mainstay the symbolic plaque with the PBA ball design and were joined at center court by Rain or Shine governor Atty. Mamerto Mondragon, San Miguel Beer governor Robert Non.
Also around were the Norwood family led by Gabe's wife Lei and children Cassius, Orion, and Idris.
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The George Mason University product was the 92nd local players to reach 5,000 points and 97th overall in league history.
The no. 1 overall pick in the 2008 draft and subsequently, Rookie of the Year, Norwood spent his entire pro career with the Rain or Shine franchise.
Known more for his defensive skills than his scoring prowess, the 6-foot-6 guard was a two-time champion with the Elasto Painters, a 10-time All-Star, a Mythical Second Team selection, a seven-time All-Defensive Team member, 2010 Defensive Player of the Year, 2010 All-Star MVP, and three-time recipient of the Samboy Lim Sportsmanship Award.
Norwod finished with three points, a rebound, and an assist as the seventh-seeded Elasto Painters bowed out of contention following their 127-122 loss to no. 2 rank San Miguel Beermen. (RG)
