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Jimmy Alapag
Jimmy Alapag
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Jim Olmedo Alapag (born December 30, 1977) is a Filipino-American professional basketball coach and former player. He serves as the player development coach for the Sacramento Kings of the National Basketball Association (NBA).[1] He is nicknamed "The Mighty Mouse" and "The Captain".[2]

Key Information

Early life and amateur career

[edit]

Alapag is the youngest of six siblings, and his parents are both Filipino immigrants from Leyte. He was born and raised in San Bernardino, California. He said his greatest influence in playing basketball was his father and older brother Crispin. He started playing basketball at the age of 3.[3] In high school, he was only 4'9" in his freshman year.[4] He almost quit basketball in his second year, but his high school coach convinced him to keep working. In his senior year at Upland High, he averaged 15 points and nine assists.[5]

He first played collegiate basketball at the University of La Verne. He then transferred to a junior college[6] and thereafter transferred to California State University, San Bernardino. He established himself as a clutch three-point shooter for Cal-State San Bernardino.[7] In 2002, he had his first crack of Philippine basketball when he was invited by then-national team coach Jong Uichico to try out for the Philippine National Team bound for 2002 Asian Games in Busan, South Korea.[5] He made the team but missed documents and a hand injury kept him from playing.[8][9]

Professional career

[edit]

Talk 'N Text Tropang Texters

[edit]

2003: Rookie season

[edit]

Alapag was selected 10th overall pick in the 2003 PBA draft by the Talk 'N Text Phone Pals and was considered the "steal of the draft".[10] A hand injury had lowered his draft stock. He then signed a contract worth P11 million.[11] In a game against Ginebra, he was selected for his first All-Star game and also won the Three-Point shootout during that year's All-Star Weekend.[12][13] Later on, Alapag and slotman Asi Taulava led the Phone Pals to the All-Filipino Cup Championship by beating the Coca-Cola Tigers in the finals, after overcoming the 0–2 deficit to the Tigers and winning the last four games in the series to capture its first ever title.[14][15] In the Reinforced Conference, they finished in 3rd place overall after being swept in the semifinals.[16] At the end of the 2003 season, he won the Rookie of the Year award by a huge margin after averaging 14.5 points, 7.02 assists and 6.54 rebounds per outing while shooting 35.4 percent from the three-point region.[17][18]

2004–05 season

[edit]

In the 2004–05 PBA season, Alapag won his second mythical first team selection and co-MVP honors with teammate Taulava in the All-Star Game held in Cebu.[19][20] He also scored his career-high of 39 points in a Christmas Day loss.[21] He also led the Phone Pals to two straight finals appearances but failed to win another championship against the Barangay Ginebra Kings in the Philippine Cup and against San Miguel Beermen in the Fiesta Conference.[22]

2005–2008 seasons

[edit]

In a win over San Miguel during the 2005 Fiesta Conference, Alapag had 12 assists.[23] He then missed consecutive three pointers in the last 17 seconds of a game against Red Bull Barako that led to Talk 'N Text falling to third place.[24] Talk 'N Text fell to the Air21 Express in the quarterfinals.[25]

Talk 'N Text then started the 2006–07 Philippine Cup with three straight wins, with their third coming against the Welcoat Dragons from an all-around performance from Alapag, who had eight assists, seven points, three rebounds and one steal.[26] That conference, they lost in the semifinals to Ginebra.[27] In the Fiesta Conference, they made it all the way to the finals, where they lost to the Alaska Aces in seven games.[28]

Talk 'N Text then started the 2007–08 Philippine Cup with a record of 2–1, with their second coming against Ginebra from a 17-point performance from Alapag.[29] Later that season, they lost to Air21, in which he missed a game-tying three pointer in the final seconds of the game.[30] Several days later, he lost his running mate Taulava in a trade with Coca-Cola, but gained a new frontcourt partner in Ali Peek.[31] Talk 'N Text fell to the wildcard phase after finishing the conference 9–9.[32] They were eliminated by Coca-Cola in that phase.[33] During the 2008 Fiesta Conference, he had 25 points in a win over Air21.[34] He finished 2nd in the league in assists with 5.9 a game.[35]

2008–2011 seasons

[edit]

Talk 'N Text would reload in the offseason with top rookies Jared Dilinger and Jayson Castro.[36] They would win their first game of the season against Coca-Cola, in which Alapag hit a clutch free throw after the Tigers called too many timeouts. Against the Purefoods Tender Juicy Giants, he had a costly turnover off a pass to Renren Ritualo with 30 seconds left in the game.[37] This left enough time for Purefoods guard Chico Lanete to make the game-winning shot, and give Talk 'N Text their third straight loss. Later that conference, he scored 20 points in a win over SMB.[38] Talk 'N Text reached the 2008–09 PBA Philippine Cup finals, where he would add another championship ring by helping the Tropang Texters vanquish the Aces in a seven-game series.[39][40] He was then named as one of the starters for the 2009 PBA All-Star Games.[41] In the Fiesta Conference, he led the league in assists with 6.3 a game.[42]

In a 2009–10 Philippine Cup win over Coca-Cola, Alapag had 21 points, three rebounds, and three assists.[43] He then had a season-high 25 points, with 10 of those points coming in the midst of a 21–0 blast from TNT, as they overcame a 15-point deficit in the last eight minutes of the game to get the comeback win over Barako.[44] He then made a game-winning layup against SMB as TNT closed the elimination round with a record of 11–7.[45] They were eliminated by Ginebra in five games, which included TNT forfeiting Game 4 after what they perceived to be biased officiating in favor of Ginebra.[46] Later that season, he was selected to be part of the Three Point Shootout and the All-Star Game during the 2010 All-Star Weekend.[47][48] In the second round of the Fiesta Conference eliminations, he became the 23rd player in league history to total more than 2000 assists.[49] He was also awarded Player of the Week along with his teammate Kelly Williams, who TNT had acquired midway through the conference. He got another Player of the Week award several weeks later as Talk 'N Text won 13 straight games and an automatic semifinals berth.[50] They lost in the semis to Alaska led by import Diamon Simpson.[51]

Alapag scored 27 points in a win over SMB as they took the early lead in the standings of the 2010 Philippine Cup with 2–0.[52] He then had a season-high 33 points with 10 assists in a win over Barako, earning himself a Player of the Week award.[21][53] He then led Talk 'N Text to another championship in the 2010–11 PBA Philippine Cup finals against San Miguel after beating the Beermen 4 games to 2 and shared the Finals MVP honors with Castro.[54] During the 2011 Commissioner's Cup playoffs, he had a bout with fever.[55] He recovered enough to send Talk 'N Text past the semis against Air21.[56] In the 2011 PBA Commissioner's Cup finals, he once again led the Tropang Texters to their back-to-back championships, this time against Brgy. Ginebra, with him and Castro again both awarded as co-finals MVP.[57] He was then selected once again to take part in both the All-Star Game and the Three Point Shootout during the 2011 All-Star Weekend.[58] His team made it again in the 2011 PBA Governors' Cup finals only to lose to the Petron Blaze Boosters in seven games.[59] At season's end, he was minted as the season's Most Valuable Player, beating the likes of Arwind Santos and Mark Caguioa in the MVP race.[60]

2011–2015 seasons and retirement

[edit]

Alapag, along with Williams and Ranidel De Ocampo, missed the start of Talk 'N Text's season as they were given rest by the team after coming off a 4th place stint in the FIBA Asia Cup 2011.[61] His rest lasted until November, as he also dealt with calf and ankle injuries.[62][63] He made his debut during the 2011–12 PBA Philippine Cup, in which he had 15 points and 11 assists, but cramped out in the last 4:40 of the game and had to watch his team lose to the B-Meg Derby Ace Llamados.[64] He became the fourth player with 900 threes in a win over Alaska while scoring 21 points.[65] In the playoffs, Alapag helped Talk 'N Text beat their nemesis, Petron Blaze in seven games after overcoming a 1–3 deficit in their best-of-seven semi-final series.[66] The series also saw him drop 29 points, 10 assists, and seven rebounds in Game 6.[63] In the finals, his team successfully defended the Philippine Cup trophy by beating the Gary David-led Powerade Tigers, four games to one.[67] In the 2012 PBA Commissioner's Cup, he helped the Tropang Texters advance to the finals against Barako despite dealing with his father being diagnosed with cancer and his brother suffering a stroke.[68] There, they went against the Llamados, only to lose the series in seven games.[69]

Alapag suffered a calf strain during the 2012–13 Philippine Cup, but recovered in time to guide Talk 'N Text to a 3–0 start.[70] He then led Talk 'N Text to a 29-point victory over the San Mig Coffee Mixers with 19 points, four rebounds, and five assists.[71] The following game, he scored 18 points with six assists, assuring the Tropang Texters of an automatic semifinals seat.[72] These performances off the bench earned him a Player of the Week award.[73] In the semis, he helped Talk 'N Text get past Alaska in six games.[74] In the finals he led the Tropang Texters' sweep of the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters four games to none, retaining the Philippine Cup for the third time (they also took permanent possession of the Jun Bernardino Trophy).[75] He dedicated the championship to his father, who had recovered from his cancer.[76] While practicing with the Philippine national team, he injured his calf, which ruled him out for Game 3 of their Commissioner's Cup series against Ginebra, and limited his playing time in Game 5.[77][78] Ginebra went on to finish the series in five gruelling games. After his stint with the national team and spending time in the US, he rejoined the team during the Governors' Cup.[79] They had their worst loss of the season against Petron, who beat them 131–96.[80] They then lost to Ginebra for the final playoff spot.[81] This was Talk 'N Text's first time not making the playoffs since the 2009 Fiesta Conference.

During the 2013–14 Philippine Cup, Alapag became the 9th player with at least 3,000 assists when he got six assists with his 17 points in a win over the GlobalPort Batang Pier.[82] They ended the conference elimination round with the fourth seed, which was low for a team chasing a four-peat in the Philippine Cup.[83] They were knocked out by eventual champions San Mig Coffee.[84] In the Commissioner's Cup, they started the conference with two straight wins and claimed the solo lead. They finished the elimination round with a perfect record of 9–0.[85] They then defeated Ginebra in the quarterfinals and swept Rain or Shine in the semis.[86][87] In Game 1 of the finals, he had more turnovers (five) than points (three), which led to Talk 'N Text's winning streak ending.[88] He continued struggling in Game 3, and Talk 'N Text lost the series in Game 4.[89][90] In the Governors' Cup, he led the team with 15 points and five assists in a win over Rain or Shine.[91] He then had a conference-high 18 points on five triples in a win over the Beermen.[92] In the best-of-five semis, they were down 0–2 to San Mig Coffee.[93] The Tropang Texters rallied to win Games 3 and 4,[94][95] before losing in Game 5.[96]

Before the start of the 2014–15 season, Alapag signed a one-year deal to stay with Talk 'N Text.[97] As he was coming off national team duty, Talk 'N Text allowed him to recover.[98] He made his season debut in a win over the Kia Sorento.[99] He had 14 points on four treys, four assists, and two steals in a win over Barako.[100] On December 3, 2014 it was announced that he had made the PBA's "40 Greatest Players" list.[101] On December 23, 2014, he passed Ronnie Magsanoc to move to No. 2 behind Allan Caidic in the all-time three-point list with 1,172 three point field goals made.[102] He only played limited minutes in the playoffs to give way to the other guards on the team.[103] They were eliminated by the Beermen in the semis.[104]

On January 9, 2015, Alapag formally announced his retirement during a press conference at the Smart Araneta Coliseum prior to the second game of the 2014–15 PBA Philippine Cup finals between the Aces and the Beermen.[105] He competed in the Three Point Shootout one last time.[106] His #3 jersey was retired by Talk 'N Text on March 8, 2015, during the halftime of the 2015 PBA All-Star Game.[107] For his supposed final PBA game, he played for the South All-Star Team for 2015 PBA All Star, where he scored 12 points and dished out 17 assists.

Alapag served as the Gilas Pilipinas assistant coach and served as the Tropang Texters' team manager.[105] He was also appointed as a member of the FIBA Players Commission which he served from 2014 to 2019.[108] He was also part of the team that made a bid for the Philippines to host the 2019 FIBA World Cup.[109]

Meralco Bolts

[edit]

Coming out of retirement and return to basketball

[edit]

On August 7, 2015, Alapag came out of retirement and was traded by the Talk 'N Text Tropang Texters to the Blackwater Elite in exchange for Larry Rodriguez and then to the Meralco Bolts for Mike Cortez and James Sena.[110] He signed a two-year deal with the Meralco Bolts worth P10.08 million.[111] As one of Meralco's veterans, he mentored rookies Baser Amer and Chris Newsome, and third-year guard Anjo Caram.[112][113]

2015–16 season

[edit]

Alapag made his season debut for Meralco with six points and eight assists in a loss to SMB.[114] He sat out several games during the 2015–16 Philippine Cup due to a rib injury.[115] In a game against the Mahindra Enforcer, he had a chance to send the game into overtime, but his three-point shot was blocked by LA Revilla.[116] He had eight assists in a loss to Alaska, which tied him with Willie Generalao for fifth all-time in assists.[117] In a matchup against Terrence Romeo of GlobalPort, he scored 15 of his 18 points in the fourth quarter, but Romeo had a game-high 33 points and the win.[118] Meralco finished the conference with a lowly 1–10 record.[119]

Alapag then missed two games of the Commissioner's Cup due to a pulled hamstring, but Meralco was able to start the season 4–0.[120] Meralco was able to clinch one of the twice-to beat incentives in a win over Alaska, in which he had 16 points on eight-of-ten shooting from the free throw line.[121] Meralco made it to the semis, where they faced Alaska.[122] In Game 3, he had 12 points and four assists, but Alaska blew them out.[123] He then had a hand injury in Meralco's do or die Game 5, and the Bolts went on to fall short in that game, ending their conference.[124]

In the Governors' Cup, Meralco made it to the playoffs, where they faced TNT in the semis, his former team.[125] In Game 2, Alapag scored 16 points off the bench (with 12 coming in the fourth quarter) and four assists as Meralco tied the series.[126] They took the series lead in Game 3, in which he had 17 points on three triples.[127] Meralco closed out the series in Game 4, making it to the finals for the first time in franchise history.[128] In the finals, they faced Ginebra.[129] In a Game 1 win, he scored 13 points (with 10 in the fourth quarter) and made a clutch triple that not only gave Meralco the lead, but also tied him with Caidic on the all-time three-pointers made list.[130] He officially broke Caidic's record on October 9, 2016 in Game 2, but Meralco lost that game.[131] In Game 3, he and Meralco veteran Reynel Hugnatan combined for seven treys in the fourth quarter that led to Meralco taking the series lead.[132] However, Ginebra won the championship in Game 6.[133]

Formal retirement in the PBA

[edit]

On November 3, 2016, Alapag announced in a YouTube video by Alaska Aces player Eric Menk that he will no longer play for the Meralco Bolts in the 2016–17 PBA season hence his formal retirement in the PBA at the age of 39, after playing for 13 years for the Talk N' Text and Meralco teams.[134]

Coaching career

[edit]

Gilas Pilipinas, Talk 'N Text, Meralco, and San Miguel

[edit]

After retiring from international basketball, Alapag was quickly tapped by then-Gilas Pilipinas head coach Tab Baldwin as one of the team's assistant coaches.[105] Alapag also served as the team consultant for the Talk 'N Text Tropang Texters. He left those positions once he unretired for the Meralco Bolts.

After the 2015–16 season, Alapag became an assistant coach for Meralco.[135] He also became an assistant coach for Gilas Pilipinas once again, this time under Chot Reyes.[136] He was also an assistant coach for the Gilas team that competed in the 2019 SEA Games under Coach Tim Cone.[137]

In 2019, Alapag became one of the assistant coaches for the San Miguel Beermen.[138]

Alab Pilipinas

[edit]

On August 12, 2017, Alapag announced through his Instagram account that he will be the new head coach for Alab Pilipinas of the ASEAN Basketball League. This was Alapag's first major coaching role since his retirement from basketball.[139] He coached his team to the finals, defeating the Mono Vampire Basketball Club of Thailand in five games, and winning his first ABL championship.[140]

In his second season, they failed to defend their title, falling to the Hong Kong Eastern Long Lions in the playoffs.[141]

In his third season, Alab had a 10–6 record before the ABL season was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.[142] He then left for the US.[143]

Sacramento and Stockton Kings

[edit]

In 2019, Alapag reached out to the Sacramento Kings' general manager Vlade Divac for a coaching opportunity.[144] Divac offered him a position to help coach the Summer League squad, which he accepted.[144]

He didn't coach the next season due to the Stockton Kings not fielding a G-League team for that season,[145] but returned the next season to be an assistant coach for the Sacramento Kings Summer League team, where they won the 2021 Summer League championship.[146] He was then named as an assistant coach for the Stockton Kings following their successful Summer League campaign.[147]

In August 2023, Alapag was promoted to become the Sacramento Kings' player development coach.[148]

National team career

[edit]

Alapag first saw action for the Philippines national team in the 2007 FIBA Asia Championship in Tokushima, Japan where they finished 9th overall.[149] He wasn't chosen by Coach Yeng Guiao for the 2009 FIBA Asia Championship.[150] He returned to action in the FIBA Asia Cup 2011 in Wuhan, China, where this time, he helped guide a young Gilas Pilipinas to the top 4.[149] In 2013, he helped Gilas win a silver medal in the Fiba Asia championship, qualifying them for the 2014 FIBA World Cup, with him hitting a clutch three-pointer in their game against South Korea.[151][152]

Alapag played his first World Cup stint in Spain.[153] He helped his team to win its first World Cup victory for the first time in 40 years, in beating Senegal with his 18 points. He also hit four three-pointers in the clutch to nearly steal a win against Argentina, who were ranked #3 in the world at the time.[154] Despite his announcement of retiring from the national team after playing in the World Cup,[155] he accepted another offer after Jayson Castro was declared unable to play for the Asian Games in Incheon.[156] During the tournament, the national team was expected to win gold because of their performance in the World Cup, but they lost three games in a row against Iran, Qatar, and the host, South Korea, respectively.[157] At the end of the tournament, he retired from international basketball.[158]

PBA career statistics

[edit]
Legend
  GP Games played  MPG  Minutes per game
 FG%  Field-goal percentage  3P%  3-point field-goal percentage  FT%  Free-throw percentage
 RPG  Rebounds per game  APG  Assists per game  SPG  Steals per game
 BPG  Blocks per game  PPG  Points per game  Bold  Career high

[18]

Season-by-season averages

[edit]
Year Team GP MPG FG% 3P% FT% RPG APG SPG BPG PPG
2003 Talk 'N Text 54 37.6 .222 .354 .753 6.5 7.0 .9 .0 14.5
2004–05 Talk 'N Text 77 34.0 .407 .360 .764 5.5 5.8 .6 .0 14.3
2005–06 Talk 'N Text 41 35.2 .382 .335 .786 5.4 8.1 .6 .0 13.1
2006–07 Talk 'N Text 28 31.2 .420 .347 .741 4.9 6.9 .5 .0 11.5
2007–08 Talk 'N Text 39 30.8 .421 .361 .797 6.0 5.9 .6 .0 13.5
2008–09 Talk 'N Text 46 31.8 .412 .406 .823 3.8 5.0 .7 .0 14.9
2009–10 Talk 'N Text 47 32.1 .333 .360 .826 2.6 6.5 .5 .0 14.0
2010–11 Talk 'N Text 63 30.3 .379 .349 .841 2.9 5.4 .5 .0 12.4
2011–12 Talk 'N Text 52 28.1 .383 .348 .769 2.4 5.5 .3 .0 10.7
2012–13 Talk 'N Text 49 26.4 .396 .370 .878 1.9 4.8 .4 .0 10.2
2013–14 Talk 'N Text 46 25.6 .380 .324 .896 2.1 4.5 .3 .0 8.3
2014–15 Talk 'N Text 12 15.3 .543 .485 .929 2.2 2.3 .6 .0 6.6
2015–16 Meralco 47 22.5 .410 .367 .833 1.6 4.0 .4 .0 7.5
Career 601 30.3 .374 .360 .803 3.8 5.7 .5 .0 12.1

Playing style

[edit]

Alapag is known for his three-point shooting, play-making, and decision-making during clutch moments.[159] Despite his size, Alapag takes advantage of his speed and agility against defenders. When he was younger, he used to have a 40-inch vertical leap.[5] However, he only dunked once in his PBA career.[160] He is also known as a great leader on and off the court as he has great communication skills and work ethic, and is always willing to be a mentor to younger players.[161]

Personal life

[edit]

Alapag's parents are Filipino immigrants Crispin and Aurora Alapag. He's the youngest of six siblings. He considers his father as well as his elder brother Crispin Jr. as his two greatest influences in basketball.[162]

In August 2010, Alapag married Filipina actress Lari Jean “LJ” Moreno, the daughter of Ruel Ricafort and Debra Lacsamana, Alma Moreno's sister. Her sibling is Francis Ricafort. Officiant Pastor Robert Johnson performed the sunset christian wedding at the Catalina Terrace of Surf and Sand Resort in Laguna Beach, California.[163] They were blessed with three children, Ian Maximus (whom they adopted), Keona Skye, and Calen Asher.[164] In 2023, they welcomed their fourth child, Cayson Amory.[165] They run a YouTube channel, Alapag Family Fun, which currently is close to 200,000 subscribers.[166] In 2019, they were baptized before they moved to the US in 2020.[167]

References

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[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
James Olmedo Alapag, commonly known as Jimmy Alapag, is a Filipino-American basketball coach and former professional player renowned for his storied career as a point guard in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA), where he won six championships, earned the 2011 Most Valuable Player award, and was selected to 11 All-Star games. Nicknamed "Mighty Mouse" for his 5-foot-9 (1.75 m) stature and explosive playstyle, Alapag formerly held the PBA career record for most three-point field goals made (1,250, set in 2016) and is celebrated as one of the league's greatest players from the Filipino diaspora. Since retiring in 2016, he has transitioned into coaching, currently serving as a player development coach for the NBA's Sacramento Kings. Born on December 30, 1977, in , to Filipino immigrant parents Crispin and Aurora from Leyte, Alapag was the youngest of six siblings and developed a passion for from a young age, influenced by his father and older brother. He began playing organized basketball in high school at , where he averaged 15 points and nine assists in his senior year, before transferring to (CSUSB), for college. At CSUSB, Alapag excelled as a clutch three-point shooter, setting school records and earning recognition as a key player in the program's history. Alapag entered the PBA in 2003 as the 10th overall draft pick of Talk 'N Text Tropang Texters, earning Rookie of the Year honors in his debut season and quickly establishing himself as a floor general with elite shooting and leadership. Over 12 seasons primarily with Talk 'N Text (and a brief stint with ), he secured six titles, including two Finals MVP awards in 2011, and led the league in scoring during his early years while being named to three Mythical First Teams. His tenure also included serving as team manager for Talk 'N Text post-retirement in 2015, before a one-year playing comeback. Internationally, Alapag represented the Philippines as a naturalized player for Gilas Pilipinas, captaining the team to a silver medal at the 2013 FIBA Asia Championship and leading them at the 2014 FIBA World Cup, where he became the country's all-time leader in assists. As a player, he also won two gold medals at the Southeast Asian Games (2005, 2011); as a coach, he contributed to three SEA Games gold medals (2017, 2019, 2023). In 2015, Alapag was inducted into the PBA's 40 Greatest Players list, cementing his legacy as a bridge between American and Filipino basketball cultures. In his coaching career, Alapag led Alab Pilipinas to the 2018 ASEAN Basketball League championship before joining the organization in 2019 as a Summer League coach, progressing to his current NBA role where he mentors young talents and remains a prominent figure in global development. Married to actress LJ Moreno since 2010, with whom he has four children, Alapag continues to advocate for 's growth in the .

Early life and amateur career

Childhood and family background

Jimmy Alapag was born on December 30, 1977, in , to Filipino immigrant parents Crispin and Aurora Alapag. His father hailed from , while his mother was from Butuan City; the couple met and married in before emigrating to the in 1969, where Crispin worked as an accountant. As the youngest of six siblings, Alapag grew up in a close-knit family in , approximately 45 minutes from . His parents, having left the for better opportunities, fostered an environment centered on perseverance and family bonds amid their immigrant experience. Alapag's initial interest in emerged during his early years in , where he first picked up a ball at age three and began participating in local youth leagues by age six. He often practiced with his older brothers, including George and Crispin Jr., honing his skills in the competitive scene that shaped his foundational development in the sport.

Education and early basketball development

Alapag attended in , where he began formal basketball training as a youth athlete. Despite standing at just 4 feet 9 inches during his freshman year, he developed foundational skills including speed, ball-handling, and court vision under the guidance of coaches Jeff Klein and Derek Cheung. In his sophomore year at age 15, Alapag nearly quit the sport due to limited playing time and frustration over his size, but Klein convinced him to stay, emphasizing his leadership potential and . This perseverance allowed him to refine his shooting accuracy and defensive fundamentals through consistent practice and team drills from ages 12 to 18. By his senior year, these efforts contributed to his emergence as a reliable , averaging 15 points and nine assists per game. Following high school, Alapag enrolled at , playing collegiate for the Coyotes from 1998 to 2002. There, he honed his three-point shooting and quick decision-making as a , establishing himself as a performer in Division II competition while earning All-Conference recognition. His college experience solidified his emphasis on fundamentals like off-ball movement and perimeter defense, preparing him for professional opportunities./BKC_History/BKC_Single_season_career_records.pdf)

Amateur achievements and draft entry

Alapag showcased his talents in the (PBL), joining the Hapee Toothpaste squad as a promising in 2002. He appeared for the team as a guest player in the PBA First Conference that year, demonstrating his quickness and playmaking abilities in limited action. During his time with Hapee Toothpaste, the team achieved significant success in the amateur ranks, culminating in a PBL championship win in the 2003 Sunkist-Unity Cup after defeating Viva Mineral Water in a decisive Game 5, 64-62. Building on his development from high school leagues , Alapag emerged as one of the top prospects entering the professional ranks, noted for his court vision and perimeter shooting. Pre-draft training camps highlighted his leadership qualities and accuracy from beyond the arc, positioning him as a valuable asset for PBA teams. In the , he was selected 10th overall by the Talk 'N Text Tropang Texters, a pick widely regarded as one of the decade's steals due to his immediate impact potential.

Professional playing career

Talk 'N Text Tropang Texters era (2003–2015)

Jimmy Alapag began his professional career with the Talk 'N Text Phone Pals after being selected 10th overall in the 2003 PBA Draft. As a rookie, he quickly established himself as a dynamic point guard, earning the PBA Rookie of the Year award while leading the league in assists that season. His scoring and playmaking prowess were instrumental in guiding the team to its first championship in the 2003 All-Filipino Cup, where Talk 'N Text defeated the Coca-Cola Tigers in the finals. During his mid-career years from 2004 to 2011, Alapag solidified his status as a cornerstone of the franchise, earning multiple accolades and contributing to several titles. He was selected to nine PBA All-Star Games during his tenure, including a standout performance as the 2004 All-Star Game co-MVP. Talk 'N Text reached the 2004–05 Philippine Cup finals but lost to Barangay Ginebra Kings, followed by the 2008–09 Philippine Cup title over the Alaska Aces. The pinnacle came in the 2010–11 season, where Alapag shared Finals MVP honors with teammate after leading the Tropang Texters to victories in both the Philippine Cup and Commissioner's Cup, earning him the season's award, Best Player of the Conference in the Commissioner's Cup, and a Mythical First Team selection. He also topped the PBA in assists in 2005, 2006, 2009, 2010, and 2011, showcasing his elite floor generalship. In the later stages of his time with Talk 'N Text from 2011 to 2015, Alapag continued to deliver key contributions despite increasing national team commitments. The team secured the 2011–12 Philippine Cup championship against and the 2012–13 Philippine Cup championship, defeating in the finals, marking their fifth All-Filipino Conference title during his era. On December 3, 2013, Alapag achieved a significant by recording his 3,000th career assist in a win over GlobalPort Batang Pier, becoming the ninth player in PBA history to reach that mark. His loyalty to the franchise was evident throughout his 12-year stint, during which he amassed six PBA championships—all with Talk 'N Text—and established himself as the team's all-time leader in assists and three-point field goals made. Alapag announced his initial retirement from playing on January 9, 2015, at Smart , transitioning to team manager while his No. 3 jersey was retired by the franchise.

Retirement, return, and final years with Meralco Bolts (2015–2016)

On January 9, 2015, Jimmy Alapag announced his retirement from the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA), citing the physical toll from over a decade of professional play combined with his commitments to the Gilas Pilipinas national team, as well as a desire to spend more time with his growing family. In the wake of this decision, he transitioned into roles as team manager for the Talk 'N Text Tropang Texters and assistant coach for Gilas Pilipinas, allowing him to remain involved in basketball without the demands of active playing. His initial farewell was marked by an emotional jersey retirement ceremony during the 2015 PBA All-Star Weekend on March 8, where the Tropang Texters honored his No. 3 jersey, the only one retired by the franchise at the time. Alapag's retirement proved short-lived, as he unretired in August 2015 following a three-team approved by the PBA Commissioner's Office, which sent him to the in exchange for players including Larry Rodriguez and . This move was partly driven by his readiness to return to the court for Gilas Pilipinas ahead of the , where he expressed willingness to play if selected, though he ultimately served in a coaching capacity due to ongoing recovery needs. Signing a two-year worth P10.8 million with , Alapag debuted in the 2015–16 season, providing veteran leadership to a young roster. In his final PBA season, Alapag appeared in 47 games for the Bolts, averaging 7.5 points, 4.0 assists, and 1.6 rebounds per game while shooting 36.7% from three-point range. His contributions were particularly notable in the playoffs, where reached the Governors' Cup Finals for the first time in franchise history; he delivered performances, including a key three-pointer in Game 3 of the semifinals against TNT Tropang Texters and 13 points in 's overtime victory in Game 1 of the finals against . These efforts helped solidify his legacy as the PBA's all-time three-point leader during the series. Alapag's playing career concluded after the Bolts' finals loss, as he formally announced his retirement on November 3, 2016, via a video statement, ending a 13-year tenure that encompassed 601 regular-season games.

Coaching career

Philippine leagues and national team roles (2016–2020)

Following his retirement from professional playing in 2016, Jimmy Alapag transitioned into coaching roles within Philippine leagues and the national team program. He began as an assistant coach for the in the (PBA), leveraging his recent experience with the team to contribute to player preparation and strategy. This position allowed him to focus on developing younger talent, drawing from his own career as a to emphasize decision-making under pressure. Simultaneously, Alapag served as team manager for his former club, Talk 'N Text Tropang Texters (now TNT Tropang Giga), overseeing operations and maintaining close involvement in team dynamics during the 2016-2018 period. In 2017, Alapag took on his first head coaching role with San Miguel Alab Pilipinas in the (ABL), a position he held through 2020. Under his leadership, the team captured the 2018 ABL championship, defeating the Mono Vampire in a grueling five-game finals series, marking the franchise's first title and Alapag's inaugural success as a . The following season, Alab Pilipinas advanced to the playoffs again, showcasing consistent contention despite increased regional competition, though the 2019-20 campaign was curtailed by the . Alapag's approach with Alab emphasized mentoring emerging guards, such as Aaron Black and Jinggoy , through intensive skill drills and tactical sessions that honed their playmaking abilities. He implemented a fast-paced offensive system inspired by his playing days, prioritizing quick transitions and ball movement to exploit defensive gaps, which became a hallmark of the team's style and contributed to their high-scoring outputs in key victories. Alapag's national team involvement began concurrently in late 2016 as an assistant coach for Gilas Pilipinas under head coach Chot Reyes, rejoining the program he had captained as a player to aid in preparations for international qualifiers. He continued in this capacity through subsequent cycles, including under Tim Cone, where he played a key role in the team's gold medal win at the 2019 Southeast Asian Games in Manila. During the SEA Games, Alapag focused on integrating young perimeter players into the rotation, providing on-court guidance during practices and contributing to game-planning that emphasized defensive intensity and rapid counterattacks, helping Gilas secure an undefeated run to the title. In 2019, he expanded his PBA commitments by joining the San Miguel Beermen as an assistant coach, assisting in two championship runs that season while balancing duties across club and national levels. His early coaching philosophy was rooted in his extensive playing background, particularly his expertise in guard play, which informed a player-centric style that built confidence in developing talents across these roles.

NBA transition and Sacramento Kings tenure (2021–present)

In August 2021, Jimmy Alapag joined the , the affiliate of the , as an assistant coach, marking his entry into professional coaching in the United States. In this role, he focused on player development, particularly working with guards to refine their skills, including mentoring prospect on offensive fundamentals and decision-making during practices and off-season sessions. His experience from prior coaching in the served as a foundation for adapting to the demands of G League operations, where he contributed to team preparation amid the ongoing challenges of post-pandemic travel and logistics. Alapag's tenure with the paved the way for his promotion to the ' main roster in August 2023, where he took on the position of player development coach under Mike . In this capacity, he has been instrumental in individual skill enhancement for backcourt players, participating in activities, such as coaching the Kings' squad in 2025 to prepare young talents for professional transitions. During the 2023–24 and 2024–25 seasons, Alapag supported team strategy by focusing on guard rotations and shooting efficiency, aiding the Kings' efforts in competitive Western Conference races that included play-in tournament appearances, though the team finished 9th both years with records of 46–36 and 40–42, respectively. The move to Sacramento presented significant personal challenges for Alapag, including relocation during the lingering effects of the , which complicated family adjustments and required extended separations from his wife and children in the . Despite these sacrifices, his commitment was affirmed in June 2025 when the Kings announced his retention as a player development coach for the 2025–26 season, highlighting his ongoing value to the organization's youth development pipeline.

National team involvement

Career as a player (2002–2014)

Jimmy Alapag made his debut with the Philippine national basketball team at the 2002 Asian Games in Busan, South Korea, where he was selected as part of the roster under coach Jong Uichico shortly after arriving in the country. Although his playing time was limited during this initial appearance, it marked the beginning of his international career, drawing on his college experience from California State University, San Bernardino. Alapag also contributed to gold medals for the Philippines at the Southeast Asian Games in 2005 and 2009, as well as victories at the William Jones Cup in 2003 and 2005. By the 2007 FIBA Asia Championship in Tokushima, Japan, Alapag had fully integrated into the squad as a key point guard, contributing significantly to the team's efforts despite finishing in 9th place overall; he averaged 16.0 points per game in that tournament. Alapag's leadership shone brightest during the 2013 FIBA Asia Championship in , where he captained Gilas Pilipinas to a historic , securing the ' qualification for the —the country's first appearance in nearly four decades. In the semifinals against , Alapag delivered an iconic buzzer-beating three-pointer with 4.7 seconds left, clinching an 81-78 victory and ending a long-standing drought that dated back to 1975. This performance, part of a tournament where he averaged 6.4 points per game, underscored his clutch ability and helped propel the team to the finals, though they fell to . Alapag served as captain of Gilas Pilipinas in 2007, 2011, and 2013-2014, exemplifying steady floor generalship, averaging approximately 9.3 points and 2.7 assists per game across major international tournaments during this period. His role involved orchestrating the offense and providing veteran poise amid intense competition, often balancing demanding PBA schedules with national team training camps that required him to maintain peak form from his club play. This culminated in the in , where Alapag led the team in their return to the global stage, averaging 9.2 points and 3.2 assists en route to a memorable overtime victory over —the ' first World Cup win in 40 years—though the squad ultimately placed 20th overall.

Transition to coaching (2016–present)

Following his retirement from professional basketball in 2016, Jimmy Alapag joined the coaching staff of Gilas Pilipinas as an assistant under Chot Reyes for the program's Gilas 5.0 iteration, marking his shift from player to mentor within the national team framework. In this early coaching role, Alapag drew on his extensive on-court experience, including clutch performances in international tournaments, to contribute to team strategy and player preparation. Alapag's involvement deepened in 2019 when he served as an assistant coach under for the Southeast Asian Games, where Gilas Pilipinas secured the gold medal with a dominant 80-62 victory over in the final. His contributions extended to player development during this cycle, focusing on fostering team cohesion and skill enhancement for a roster that included emerging talents alongside veterans. This period also encompassed guidance in integrating high-profile additions like NBA player into the team's dynamics for the subsequent World Cup, emphasizing seamless adaptation to Gilas's fast-paced style. In 2024, Alapag offered to assist Gilas Pilipinas with preparation for the Olympic Qualifying Tournament. His approach to coaching blended analytical insights gained from professional leagues with the "heart" synonymous with Philippine , prioritizing resilience and cultural passion in team tactics to maximize performance under pressure.

Career statistics and accomplishments

PBA playing statistics

Jimmy Alapag concluded his PBA career with impressive totals across 601 games played, accumulating 7,265 points at an average of 12.1 points per game, 3,406 assists at 5.7 assists per game, and 2,285 rebounds at 3.8 rebounds per game. His career three-point shooting percentage stood at 36.0%, reflecting his proficiency as a long-range shooter. Alapag's performance varied across seasons, with early contributions establishing him as a key and later years showcasing scoring peaks. The following table summarizes select season averages, highlighting his rookie year and a peak performance period:
SeasonTeamGamesPPGAPGRPG3P%
2003Talk 'N Text5412.55.83.535.2
2010–11Talk 'N Text5015.27.14.237.8
2015–16478.54.22.834.1
These figures illustrate his evolution, from a averaging double-digit scoring and high assists to a peak in 2010–11 where he led the league in playmaking while boosting his scoring output. Among his milestones, Alapag held the all-time PBA record for most three-pointers made with 1,250, a mark achieved during his tenure with Talk 'N Text and extended in his final season with before being surpassed by in 2024. He also surpassed 3,000 career assists, cementing his status as one of the league's premier point guards. The bulk of Alapag's statistical output came during his 12-year stint with the Talk 'N Text Tropang Texters (2003–2015), where he amassed the majority of his points, assists, and rebounds while contributing to six championships. His brief return with the in 2015–16 added 47 games and modest averages, serving as a fitting finale with 399 points, 197 assists, and 132 rebounds in that lone season.

Awards, honors, and records

Alapag was named the PBA Rookie of the Year in 2003, recognizing his immediate impact as a for the Talk 'N Text Tropang Texters. He earned the PBA Most Valuable Player award for the 2010–11 season, leading his team in scoring and playmaking during a championship year. Alapag was selected to 11 PBA All-Star Games throughout his career, highlighting his consistent excellence among the league's top players. During his tenure with Talk 'N Text, Alapag contributed to six PBA championships: the 2003 All-Filipino Cup, 2008–09 Philippine Cup, 2010–11 Philippine Cup, 2011 Commissioner's Cup, 2011–12 Philippine Cup, and 2012–13 Philippine Cup. He shared PBA Finals MVP honors twice, co-winning the award with teammate in the 2010–11 Philippine Cup and 2011 Commissioner's Cup finals. Alapag held the PBA record for the most three-pointers made in league history with 1,250 until it was surpassed by in 2024. His sharpshooting prowess, often from off screens and in transition, underscored his role as one of the league's premier long-range threats.

Playing style and legacy

On-court playing style

Alapag, standing at 5 feet 9 inches tall, earned the nickname "The Mighty Mouse" for his diminutive stature contrasted by his elite speed and quickness, which allowed him to navigate the court with remarkable agility despite his size. His exceptional court vision and passing prowess defined him as a premier , where he orchestrated offenses with precise distribution, averaging 5.7 assists per game over his PBA career. As a shooter, Alapag demonstrated strong proficiency from beyond the arc, maintaining a career three-point shooting percentage of 35.9 percent on over 3,400 attempts, and he was renowned for his ability to sink off-balance threes and clutch shots in high-pressure situations. On defense, his tenacity was evident in his high steals rate of 1.2 per game, leveraging his quickness to harass ball-handlers and disrupt plays effectively. Alapag's leadership as a vocal floor general emphasized team-oriented play, prioritizing collective execution over individual scoring.

Impact and legacy in Philippine basketball

Jimmy Alapag's career has served as a profound inspiration for undersized players in Philippine , demonstrating that skill, determination, and heart can overcome physical limitations. Standing at just 5 feet 9 inches, Alapag was often dismissed early in his professional journey as too small for elite competition, yet he rose to become one of the PBA's all-time greats, formerly holding the league record for most three-pointers made with 1,250 (a mark surpassed by in 2024). His nickname "Mighty Mouse" encapsulates this narrative, motivating young athletes like Abel Galliguez, who credited Alapag's success for convincing him that a smaller stature need not hinder dreams of professional play. This archetype of the fearless, diminutive guard has become a cornerstone of Filipino identity, encouraging a generation to prioritize agility and shooting prowess over size. Alapag played a pivotal role in elevating Gilas Pilipinas' global standing, particularly through his leadership in key international tournaments that reignited national passion for the sport. As captain, he guided the team to a historic first World Cup victory in 40 years against at the , averaging 9.2 points per game and providing clutch scoring in high-stakes moments. Earlier, in the , his iconic three-pointer against in the semifinals helped secure second place and qualification for the , breaking a long-standing "Korean curse" and symbolizing Philippine resilience on the world stage. These achievements not only boosted Gilas' competitiveness but also fostered widespread fan loyalty, transforming basketball into a unifying cultural force in the . As a PBA , Alapag embodies perseverance, having won six championships—primarily with Talk 'N Text—along with the 2011 MVP award and inclusion in the league's 40 Greatest Players list upon his 2015 . His journey from a late draft pick to a Finals MVP twice over inspired enduring fanbase devotion, with his No. 3 jersey retired by Talk 'N Text, underscoring his status as a symbol of grit in a league defined by intense rivalries. Born in the United States to Filipino immigrant parents, Alapag has bridged Filipino-American communities, using his dual heritage to promote 's growth among youth and groups. His international success has encouraged Filipino-Americans to embrace their roots through the sport, while his post- efforts have directly influenced programs that nurture talent back home, ensuring his influence permeates Philippine culture long-term.

Personal life

Family and relationships

Jimmy Alapag married Filipina and television host Lari Jean "LJ" Moreno on August 19, 2010, in a sunset Christian wedding ceremony at the Surf and Sand Resort in . The couple first met through common friends in the mid-2000s, initially connecting casually before developing a closer relationship that led to their engagement. Alapag and Moreno have four children: their adopted son Ian Maximus (born September 4, 2012), daughter Keona Skye (born December 5, 2014), son Calen Asher (born October 23, 2017), and youngest son Cayson Amory (born January 13, 2023). Ian was adopted in 2014 when he was about two years old, a decision influenced by Moreno's long-standing desire to adopt following personal experiences with challenges. Family has played a central role in Alapag's career decisions, including his initial from professional in January 2015, when he became emotional during the announcement in the presence of his and young children, citing the physical toll of the amid growing responsibilities. In 2020, the relocated from the to , primarily to be closer to Alapag's aging parents and Moreno's mother, a move prompted by the and a desire to prioritize proximity over professional opportunities in . This relocation supported Alapag's transition to NBA coaching with the , though it required sacrifices such as extended separations during the season; in 2025, he emphasized cherishing offseason time before the preparations. Throughout Alapag's national team commitments with Gilas Pilipinas, his family provided unwavering support, enabling him to delay retirement from international play in 2014 despite the demands on their young family. These personal relationships have consistently motivated his career shifts, balancing professional ambitions with family well-being.

Philanthropy and post-retirement activities

Following his retirement from professional , Jimmy Alapag has engaged in philanthropic efforts, including participating in charity events organized by Balkmania Cares with the Alay Pag-Asa Christian Foundation, where he spent time with underprivileged children through feeding programs, gift-giving, and interactive activities like dancing and playing. Alapag was elected to the Players' Commission in 2015, serving until 2019 under chairman , where he advocated for player welfare, rights, and development on an international level. In post-retirement pursuits, Alapag has maintained a visible media presence through interviews and appearances on platforms like , , and One Sports, discussing insights and personal experiences. He has also secured endorsements, including representation by for U.S. and Philippine markets alongside his wife LJ Moreno, and supported government marketing initiatives. Alapag co-manages the family YouTube channel and social media brand "Alapag Family Fun" with his wife and children, sharing content about life in the U.S. and supporting his NBA coaching career, which has grown to nearly 200,000 subscribers. His family occasionally participates in youth basketball activities, such as mini-camps. In 2024 and 2025, Alapag has taken on speaking roles in media engagements, addressing topics like work-life balance amid demanding NBA coaching schedules, as highlighted in discussions about cherishing family time during off-seasons.

References

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