Chris Tiu eyes 1-year deal for return to Rain or Shine

MANILA, Philippines – Weeks after reports surfaced that he may retire from the PBA after his 3-year contract with the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters ends, Chris Tiu told Rappler he is now eyeing a possible arrangement for his return to the franchise for a one-year deal.

The game changer? A 10-year-old fan stricken with leukemia who wanted to continue seeing him play in the PBA.

Tiu had previously said he originally intended to just play in the PBA for the length of his 3-year deal with Rain or Shine, but he started to reconsider that decision because he never thought he “would enjoy playing basketball this much in this level.”

Tiu had said his retirement after the deal would depend on whether his contract would be renewed by Rain or Shine, and that he would “trust in God’s plan.”

He has apparently received the sign he was looking for.

“When I went to the PCMC (Philippine Children’s Medical Center) for outreach last week, a 10-year-old kid who was suffering from leukemia saw me and told me that he’s a big fan and he was devastated when he found out that I was going to retire,” Tiu said.

“I think I found my sign,” added the 30-year-old Tiu. “Although a career in business can provide livelihood, basketball is unique in providing joy, entertainment, and inspiration, especially to young kids.”

The former UAAP champion was reportedly supposed to retire from the PBA to help out in his family business, according to Rain or Shine board representative, lawyer Mamerto Mondragon. 

Tiu noted that he has neither signed nor verbally agreed to a new deal with the Elasto Painters, but the two sides are looking at a one-year deal arrangement that could be finalized when the former Ateneo star returns from his vacation in Hong Kong.

“I’m not sure if I can commit to two years given the demands of my other work,” said Tiu, who’s also an entrepreneur. “And I think it would be fair if we do a year first, then see what the situation would be like.”

“I still have to discuss the final details when I get back from my vacation,” added Tiu, who also mentioned how thankful he is for all the support he’s received.

Throughout his career, Tiu has averaged 5 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 1.9 assists a game. He finished the 2014-2015 PBA season with similar numbers: 5.6 points, 2.1 assists, and 1.8 rebounds a contest.

A return to Rain or Shine for Tiu will mean a fourth year under the tutelage of Yeng Guiao, assuming the 56-year-old head coach doesn’t move to a new franchise this offseason.

“I like Coach Yeng’s [Guiao] style of running a team and his basketball philosophy. I’ve been learning a lot and it’s only recently that I’ve really been able to adjust and get my confidence and rhythm going somewhat,” Tiu said a few weeks ago.

He also stated, “The [Rain or Shine] fans are amazing.” – Rappler.com