B.League: Carl Tamayo elated to win first pro title despite limited role with Ryukyu

FILE – Carl Tamayo. Photo from B.league

MANILA, Philippines—The Ryukyu Golden Kings dominated the Chiba Jets, 88-73, in Game 2 of the Japanese B.League Finals to  to seal the championship in sweeping fashion on Sunday at Kanagawa Prefecture.

Carl Tamayo may not have seen action in the title-sealing victory but the University of the Philippines product was still ecstatic to win his first professional title.

“I’m very happy for my teammates, team and the whole organization. They really worked hard for this, I think the team deserves it, I’m very happy for each one that’s part of the team,” said Tamayo.

“First ring as a rookie so I’m very happy to have this experience.”

Cor Flippin’s near double-double performance powered Ryukyu to the win 21 points and eight assists built on three baskets from beyond the arc.

Jack Cooley served as the Golden Kings’ anchor in the paint, finishing with 19 points and 15 rebounds.

Yuki Togashi tried to force a rubber match for the championship with 24 points but to no avail.

Despite not getting minutes in the Finals and the season as a whole, Tamayo expressed his eagerness to keep playing for the squad in the following season.

“I’m really looking forward to next season. Hopefully, we get the championship again and I’ll be able to help the team.”

In his first year for the Golden Kings, Tamayo only averaged 2.7 points and 1.3 rebounds per outing.

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