Robert Bolick released by Fukushima Firebonds

Japan B.League Division 2 team Fukushima Firebonds has released Robert Bolick from its roster.

The team made the announcement on Thursday.

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"We would like to announce the termination of the contract with Robert Bolick. Bolick was the first player announced as the first contract in this season's lineup, and the club had high expectations for him. I think it was the same for all the Boosters," a translation of team representative director and president Hajime Nishida said.

"However, Bolick recently expressed his intention to leave the club, and the club held many discussions, but Bolick was firm in his intentions, and in the end we decided to respect his wishes. I would like to add that the content of the contract was not such that it would be easy to terminate the contract or transfer midway through the season."

The move also happened just two weeks after the season opened.

"I feel very sorry for all the Boosters who had high hopes for Bolick. I would also like to thank Enrique SVHC, the team staff, and all the Bonds players for doing their best to win even under these circumstances."

Nishida said plans for Bolick's replacement are underway.

Bolick joined the Firebonds last May.

In a previous interview with GMA News Online, Bolick said he jumped into the Japan B.League as to not refuse an opportunity that was in front of him.

"I wanted to experience and try a different culture. I told myself I wanted to test to see if I could stick with it," the former NorthPort Batang Pier player said in Filipino.

—JKC, GMA Integrated News