Adrian Nocum’s elation was palpable following Rain or Shine’s triumphant victory against Blackwater in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup. His stellar performance earned him recognition as the game’s top player, amplifying his jubilation.
Yet, beyond the exhilaration of Rain or Shine’s success, Adrian Nocum’s joy stemmed from a different source—his alma mater, Mapua, securing a spot in the NCAA Season 99 Finals. Witnessing the Cardinals’ dominant journey brought forth nostalgic memories for Nocum, igniting his unwavering belief in Mapua’s potential championship victory.
Having tread a similar path in Season 97, where Adrian Nocum played a pivotal role, he radiates confidence in Mapua’s capability to seize the championship. In his collegiate stint at Mapua, despite a premature exit in his final year due to the Cardinals’ inability to advance to the Final Four, Adrian Nocum’s noteworthy performances paved the way for his selection by Rain or Shine in this year’s draft.
Maintaining close ties with former Mapua teammates like Paolo Hernandez and Warren Bonifacio, along with coach Randy Alcantara, Nocum cherishes the camaraderie built during their time together. Their shared journey to the finals in the bubble season fostered enduring connections that persist till today.
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Adrian Nocum holds Alcantara, his mentor both on and off the court, in high regard. The seasoned tactician played a pivotal role in Nocum’s basketball journey, recruiting him from Universidad de Manila to Mapua and molding him into the player he is today. Grateful for Alcantara’s guidance, Nocum acknowledges the invaluable influence that shaped his career.
While Adrian Nocum won’t be physically present to aid Alcantara in the pursuit of an NCAA championship, his heart remains with Mapua, aspiring to witness Alcantara’s triumph. Their names are intertwined in Mapua’s basketball legacy, emblematic of a golden opportunity to end a 32-year title drought.
For Adrian Nocum, the mention of his name evokes associations with Coach Randy, signifying the indelible mark they’ve left on Mapua’s basketball narrative. As Mapua prepares to face San Beda in the best-of-three series for the NCAA Season 99 Final title, the stage is set for a riveting showdown at the Mall of Asia Arena.
Image source: manila bulletin.com
