ADRIAN Nocum was saddened by the recent development of Rain or Shine deciding to part ways with Gian Mamuyac via trade.
But Nocum said it is time to move on, as the Elasto Painters enter a new chapter with one of their leaders now with a different team in Phoenix Super LPG .
“Siyempre, medyo nabigla din,” he answered when asked about his reaction to the trade. “Pero sabi sa amin ni coach (Yeng Guiao), kasama ‘yun sa trabaho. ‘Yun ang buhay sa PBA. Walang permanente.”
“Tiwala pa rin ako sa mga kasama ko, ganun din sa mga coaches namin.”
READ: Rain or Shine starts moving on process after Mamuyac's departure
Nocum said Mamuyac personally went to RoS practice when the trade became official to say goodbye to teammates, coaches, and staff.
“Pagdating niya, binoo namin siya,” he shared in jest.
Make no mistake, though, Nocum said the Elasto Painters will miss Mamuyac’s presence, especially his leadership.
“Makikita mo rin siya kay kuya Gabe [Norwood], ‘yung leadership niya. Siya ‘yung tulay namin. Siya ‘yung naging captain namin,” he said.
“Mami-miss mo rin siyempre. Pero kailangan na naming tanggapin na wala na si Mamu, lalo na kalaban namin siya next game.”
Next man up
In RoS' first game minus Mamuyac, Nocum had his best performance thus far in the 50th Season Governors’ Cup with 21 points, seven assists, and four steals - all of which, conference highs for the high-leaping guard.
His play, however, didn’t lead to a win, as the Elasto Painters fell for the second straight game by being beaten by Meralco, 122-114
Ironically, Rain or Shine will try to end its losing streak on Tuesday against Mamuyac and the Fuel Masters at the Ynares Center.
And without a doubt, Nocum and the rest of the Elasto Painters will look to avoid another loss, even at the expense of their ex-teammate and close pal.
“Alam naman natin si Mamu, combo guard ‘yan eh; two-way ‘yan, opensa, depensa. Matalinong player,” he said.
“Kap, pasensyahan muna kalaban muna tayo.”
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