Alohi Robins-Hardy expressed pride and emotion over cousin Gabe Norwood’s impending PBA retirement, vowing to support him in his final games while celebrating his legacy on and off the court.
Family always comes first for Alohi Robins-Hardy.
The Farm Fresh setter could not hide her emotions as she spoke about her cousin, Rain or Shine star Gabe Norwood, who recently announced that the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup would be his last after a legendary 17-year run.
“You know, I'm just super proud, super sad as well,” Robins-Hardy shared to One Sports. “Lots of emotions, but he's had such a super successful time here. And I know he's going to do great things afterward, and best of luck to him and his team.”
Cousin love
Norwood, a Gilas Pilipinas mainstay and two-time PBA champion, has long been admired for his leadership, professionalism, and character both on and off the court.
These are qualities that Robins-Hardy says have inspired her as an athlete and as a person.
“I'm going to try and make as many games as possible,” she said. “Being that there's going to be, you know, an end for him. But I'm so stoked for him to just live his life with his family and his three boys. So I'm excited for all of them.”
New look for a reason
Beyond her volleyball commitments, Robins-Hardy is carving out small ways to pay tribute to her cousin, including switching up her look.
Alohi Robins-Hardy sports a new look in the 2025 PVL Reinforced Conference. | Photo: PVL
Her new braids, she revealed, were inspired by Norwood’s youngest son, who often sports the same hairstyle.
“Honestly, I haven't done it in like forever, and obviously, not obviously, but my cousin, his youngest boy always has braids, and I always have been wanting to do my own hair,” she said. “So I used their guy, Russel Gonzalez — he's awesome. His braids are the best.”
As Norwood prepares to close a remarkable chapter in his basketball journey, Robins-Hardy will look to be there to witness his final games and celebrate the impact he’s had, not just on Philippine basketball but also on those closest to him.
“I'm just proud of everything he’s accomplished,” she said. “It’s going to be emotional, but it’s also a celebration of an amazing career and the man he is.”
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Kiko Demigillo’s journey in sports storytelling began with a deep passion for games and athletes, which eventually grew into a full-fledged career.
Now a dedicated sportswriter, Kiko covers a wide range of beats for One Sports, including the PVL, UAAP, PBA, and various international tournaments.