The departure of Gian Mamuyac could have left a huge void for Rain or Shine—but Adrian Nocum has turned it into his biggest opportunity.
The young guard is emerging as the Elasto Painters’ new engine, delivering breakout performances that have helped the team recover from a sluggish start in the PBA Season 50 Governors’ Cup.
Thanks to his all-around brilliance, Nocum has been named the PBA Press Corps Player of the Week for the period of July 21 to 26.
The 25-year-old guard averaged 15.5 points, 9.0 assists, and 4.5 rebounds over Rain or Shine’s last two games, proving he can do far more than just score. His improved playmaking has transformed him into the team’s primary floor general.
Nocum showcased that growth in Sunday’s clash against Barangay Ginebra, where he dished out a career-high 10 assists while adding 13 points in one of the finest all-around games of his career.
Days earlier, he torched Phoenix Super LPG for 18 points and eight assists in Rain or Shine’s emotional first meeting against former teammate Mamuyac.
Even veteran coach Yeng Guiao believes Nocum is beginning to blossom into the leader the Elasto Painters have been waiting for.
“We actually, on purpose, try him a lot more minutes at the point. His decision-making is getting better, more matured, and he is also, partly, nagpapakita din siya ng leadership,” Guiao said.
With Nocum orchestrating the offense, Rain or Shine has climbed back to a 2-2 record, tying Blackwater and Meralco for second place in Group B and putting itself back in the thick of the playoff race.
Nocum edged out fellow Elasto Painter Caelan Tiongson, along with Schonny Winston of Converge and Juami Tiongson of Terrafirma, to earn the weekly honor from reporters covering the PBA beat.
Once known mainly as an explosive scorer, Adrian Nocum is now proving he can run a team—and if his rapid development continues, Rain or Shine may have already found its next star leader.
