PBA icon Gabe Norwood remains ever supportive of cousin Alohi Robins-Hardy

Gabe Norwood made sure to spend some time to support his cousin Alohi Robins-Hardy amid his final PBA campaign.

The Rain or Shine icon was spotted in the stands during the Farm Fresh Foxies’ match against the Capital1 Solar Spikers, proudly cheering for Robins-Hardy as she continued to make her mark as one of the league’s top setters.

“I've been [here] more than I can count. I've been out here supporting my cousin and the league all together,” said Norwood, who is in the final stretch of his storied 17-year PBA career.

[ALSO READ: PBA: Will Gabe Norwood change his mind about retirement?]

Family support runs both ways

While Norwood is one of Philippine basketball’s most respected veterans, he admits that when it comes to volleyball, he’s also learning a lot from his cousin’s approach to the sport.

“I mean, she's her own person. She's been a pro for a long time and she's had a great career,” he said. “Just her overall experience — played all over the world. So, if anything, I'm probably learning from her. Just her approach to the game, her mental focus. It's great to have her family, extended family around to support her.”

The mutual respect goes both ways. 

Robins-Hardy previously shared a heartfelt message for Norwood as he closes a remarkable chapter of his basketball journey.

“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.”

[ALSO READ: Alohi Robins-Hardy pays tribute to cousin Gabe Norwood as PBA legend nears retirement]

For now, Norwood is keeping his emotions in check, but remains ever grateful for his cousin’s support.

“I'm trying to save my emotions for the end, the true end, and stay focused,” Norwood added. “I've been truly blessed to have a long career. Not a lot of people get to play past 10 years, more or less almost 20, so I'm very grateful to the league, grateful to the people that have supported me, especially my family like Alodi.”

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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.