Carl Tamayo leaves B.League team Ryukyu ‘to explore new horizons’

Ryukyu Golden Kings’ newest recruit Carl Tamayo. –EASL PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — Carl Tamayo has requested a release from his Japanese team, Ryukyu Golden Kings, “to explore new horizons in the remainder of the 2023-24 B.League season.

VP Global Management, Tamayo’s talent agency, on Thursday announced that the 6-foot-8 has decided to look for another B.League team, which will “allow him to showcase his skills and make a more significant contribution.”

“In a strategic move to optimize the career trajectory of Filipino basketball prodigy Carl Tamayo, VP Global Management has formally requested the release of the talented player from B1 Team Ryukyu Golden Kings. The decision aims to provide Carl with an opportunity to explore new horizons in the Japan B. League, allowing him to showcase his skills and make a more significant contribution to another team,” the statement read.

“We believe that finding a team where Carl can maximize his potential and make a substantial impact is in his best interest.”

READ: Carl Tamayo eyes to be better, get more playing time with Ryukyu

Tamayo will come home next week to assess his next step.

After two seasons with the University of the Philippines including a historic UAAP Season 84 championship, Tamayo leaped to the B.League and joined the Golden Kings last year, ruling the 2022-23 season.

The 6-foot-8 forward opened his second season in Japan with a B.League career-high of 15 points in the opener of the 2023-24 B.League season but he only averaged 12.5 minutes and 3.9 points and 2.5 rebounds as Ryukyu leads the Western Division with a 20-9 record.

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

Tamayo, who shone with 16 points in his last East Asia Super League game for the Golden Kings and led the Asia All-Stars to a big win in Okinawa with his fellow Filipino players, expressed his gratitude to Ryukyu.

“As I bid farewell to the Ryukyu Golden Kings, I want to express my deepest gratitude to each and every fan who has been with me on this incredible journey. Your unwavering support has meant the world for me,” Tamayo said.

“Though my time with the team may be ending, your support will forever be etched in my heart. Thank you for making my time with the Ryukyu Golden Kings truly unforgettable.”

The 22-year-old Gilas cadet will have to wait for Ryukyu to grant his release before transferring to a new team.