Robert Bolick makes ‘Japan Exodus’ official, signs with Fukushima

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

And now it’s official.

After spending several years with the NorthPort Batang Pier franchise as their main gunner in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA), superstar point guard Robert Bolick will now be testing the waters of the Japan B. League after signing with Division II team Fukushima Firebonds.

Fukushima made its official announcement after landing Bolick last May 15, 2023, but didn’t confirm if it was a two-year contract with a team option in the last year.

“I am very grateful to be a part of Fukushima Firebonds. I am honored to be a player on this team and show my skills and abilities as I strive to reach new heights with my new family. I can’t wait to play in front of you,” said Bolick in the team announcement.

Several days ago, trusted sources from Spin.ph and Rappler Sports confirmed that the national team veteran is set to fly to Japan to join a Division II team in the B. League.

Those rumors then proved to be true, breaking the ongoing talks that the NorthPort star is already making his way out after leading the franchise to several playoff appearances.

Apart from the team option in his second year of the contract, the sources also revealed that Bolick will receive additional bonus salary if he will be able to promote the team to the Division I category.

Bolick will now be joining his former national team teammates Dwight Ramos, Thirdy and Kiefer Ravena, and Bobby Ray Parks Jr. in the B. League.

His tremendous Gilas Pilipinas stint during the past years helped him rise his draft stock after displaying several big-time performances.

He was also a part of the past FIBA World Cup Gilas squad and became their go-to guy in several games.