Another Departure at NorthPort: Paul Zamar Let Go Just as He’s Cleared to Play
In a telling moment that highlights NorthPort Batang Pier's continuing struggles to keep a stable and competitive roster, veteran guard Paul Zamar has been informed that his contract will not be renewed—just as he was medically cleared to return from an ACL injury.
Zamar, son of long-time coach Boycie Zamar, shared that after nine months of rehab and recovery, he received clearance from Dr. George Canlas to rejoin full practices.
“Pinayagan na ako ni Doc Canlas na bumalik sa practice. Sabi niya 'yung recovery ko very good… walang setback, walang maga, walang naging problema,” Zamar told reporters following NorthPort’s 94-70 loss to TNT on Friday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
However, what should have been a triumphant return quickly turned somber.
“Sinabihan ako na hindi na ako ire-renew ng kontrata,” said Zamar, who will officially become a free agent on May 31.
Pattern of Departures
Zamar’s release adds to the growing list of key players NorthPort has either traded or lost in recent months. These moves have painted a worrying picture of a franchise that appears increasingly incapable of maintaining a competitive team:
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JM Calma was traded to San Miguel for Avan Nava and a future pick.
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William Navarro was dealt to Magnolia in exchange for Calvin Abueva, Jerrick Balanza, and a second-round draft pick.
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Arvin Tolentino, a legitimate MVP contender and the Commissioner’s Cup Best Player, opted not to re-sign and instead joined the KBL’s Seoul SK Knights.
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Rookie Agem Miranda was also quietly let go after his contract expired.
Zamar, who earned the Samboy Lim Sportsmanship Award just last season, expressed understandable disappointment.
“Highs and lows ng emotions,” said the former UE stalwart. “Tao rin naman tayo. May emotions din tayo.”
Despite the abrupt ending, Zamar remained thankful to NorthPort and coach Bonnie Tan for the opportunity he had with the team.
A Franchise in Decline?
The series of player exits — especially following NorthPort's surprising finish as the No. 1 seed in the Commissioner’s Cup playoffs just months ago — has sparked growing concerns among fans and league observers. While rebuilding is normal in professional basketball, the volume and speed of these moves suggest more than just a retooling. They raise serious questions about NorthPort’s direction and long-term plans.
With core pieces now scattered and veterans released without replacement, NorthPort seems to be drifting. And with continued rumors about the franchise being up for sale, speculation is only intensifying.
Final Word
NorthPort’s latest move to release Paul Zamar, even after his successful recovery, further exposes the franchise’s apparent inability to build and maintain a winning culture. From trading away stars to letting go of solid contributors without clear replacements, the signs are clear: this team is unraveling.
Let’s hope that if the sale rumors are true, the franchise finds a serious and committed buyer — one that will finally treat NorthPort not as a revolving door or holding zone, but as a true competitor in the PBA.
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