Carl Tamayo stays with Ryukyu Golden Kings in B.League

Ryukyu Golden Kings’ Carl Tamayo. –EASL PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — Carl Tamayo will continue his professional stint in Japan as he signed a fresh contract with the Ryukyu Golden Kings for the 2023-24 B.League season.

Ryukyu, which ruled the previous B.League season, on Friday announced that it extended the 22-year-old forward’s contract as its Asian import ahead of its title-retention bid.

Tamayo, who decided to forgo his remaining years in the UAAP after two seasons with University of the Philippines, is eager to contribute more for the Golden Kings next season.

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“I’m very excited and grateful to have the opportunity to play next season with this great organization,” said Tamayo in a statement. “Looking forward to helping the team to get the goal next season!!! See you soon! Go Kings!”

The 6-foot-7 Tamayo, who joined the team in the middle of the regular season, only played 16 games, averaging 2.5 points and 1.3 rebounds in 8.4 minutes per match.

Despite his limited playing time and being benched in the B.League Finals, Ryukyu swept the Chiba Jets in the best-of-three championship series.

The Golden Kings finished second in the regular season with a 48-12 record before eliminating Bobby Ray Parks Jr.’s Nagoya Diamond Dolphins in the quarterfinals and Yokohama B-Corsairs in the semifinals.

Tamayo, the Season 84 Rookie of the Year and two-time UAAP mythical member, is currently in the country as part of the Gilas Pilipinas’ 21-man pool for the Fiba World Cup 2023 in August.