In the classification round of the 2006 Philippine Cup, the Chunkee Giants finished with a 12–4 record. In the first round of the all-Filipino Cup, Yap recorded 34 points against the Sta. Lucia Realtors then had a career-high 37 points to beat the Barangay Ginebra Kings.

June Mar S. Fajardo
June Mar S. Fajardo (born November 17, 1989) is a Filipino professional basketball player for the San Miguel Beermen of the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA). He is also known by his nickname “The Kraken” for his extraordinary size and finesse against opposing big men.

Philippines men’s national basketball team#15 / Center
June Mar Fajardo/Current teams

It’s good to see that PBA cager James Yap’s relationship with partner Michela Cazzola remains strong. The couple first met in 2012 and since then they have raised a beautiful family together. Prior to meeting his Italian girlfriend, James was in a relationship with Queen of All Media Kris Aquino.

Kris Aquinom. 2005–2012
James Yap/Wife

However, second seed University of the East lost to a dramatic semifinal series as they faced the Ateneo Blue Eagles the eventual champions. Nevertheless, Yap established himself as one of the most prolific scorers averaging more than 20 points per game in just his third year in the league.

Yap also played in the Philippine Basketball League from 2001 to 2004. He decided to declare his eligibility for the PBA Draft, and was selected the 2nd overall pick in the 2004 PBA draft by the Purefoods Tender Juicy Giants. One of the focal points of the Purefoods offense, he is the 2005–2006 and 2009–2010 seasons’ Most Valuable Player.

He played for the UE Red Warriors under former national team coach Boysie Zamar. In 2002, known for his quick-release shooting and all-around presence, he, alongside Paul Artadi and Ronald Tubid, brought the Red Warriors to the Final Four after years of absence.