James Yap plans to quit basketball

MANILA, Philippines - James Yap (photo) admits that he is planning to quit his professional basketball career after six years, and eventually venture into coaching.

“I want to coach young people in high school,” says James on ABS-CBN’s Tapatan Ni Tunying (TNT) airing today. “I want to share my experience with them. It would be great to help them, and see them play for the PBA (Philippine Basketball Association) someday.” 

Is settling down with his Italian girlfriend, Michela Cazzola also a reason for his retirement plan?

“Marriage is just there,” he says. “We just have to take it slow and wait for the right time.”

He also opens up about his improving relationship with former wife Kris Aquino and son Bimby, and talks about his older child with a former girlfriend for the first time.

“Actually, I want to thank my ex-girlfriend because no matter the issue I faced, she remained quiet and never spoke ill of me,” he says.

Don’t miss the month-long anniversary celebration of TNT this month at 4 p.m. on Kapamilya Gold.