CHICAGO - For the first time since his Terrafirma jersey turned into blood-red Ginebra, PBA Season 48 Rookie of the Year Stephen Holt peeled back the curtains of that stunning July 13 swap.
"I was more shocked. I truly didn't know I was going to be traded until I found out like everyone else. I was on my plane to Manila from America Friday night, landed, and woke up the next morning to the trade," Holt told me via text message.
Although he has escaped the Terrafirma dungeon, he hasn't cut ties with some of the guys he rolled with at the Dyip.
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"Juami (Tiongson), Javi (De Liano), Isaac (Go) and I talk all the time in our group chat. It's a brotherhood we built."
It's been a prison break out there at Terrafirma without Holt.
"I am surprised they are 0-4 but it shows how tough it is to win in this league. They've been battling injuries and building chemistry still so I hope they can bounce back and finish this conference strong," the Fil-Am from Portland, Oregon said.
In a mild shocker, Ginebra is also off to a slow start, stumbling out of the Governors' Cup gates at 1-2.
WARMING UP.
"It's been a challenge no doubt. I understand the different reads and movements but now it's understanding when to use certain actions and play off certain guys' strengths," the 32-year old playmaker explained.
Through three games at Ginebra, Holt has averaged a modest 7.6 points, 7.6 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 2 steals while shooting just a total of 22 field goals.
"The type of shots I would normally get is different here so I'm still working through how my game can be effective to help our team and that comes with time."
While the transition has had its bumps, Holt is appreciating the splendor of playing for Ginebra.
"It's been fun so far playing with bigger crowds than I was used to last season. In a paradox my job is easier and harder at the same time.
"Because I'm playing with so many great players, I can't lose sight and be on the offensive end. My effort on defense will always be there. I just need to get back to being aggressive and making plays."
Holt speaks fondly of Justin Brownlee, a hard worker he sees as "reserved" but a vocal leader who helps everyone out when needed.
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"He wants to make everyone better brick by brick. The accountability and standard he holds us to is second to none."
With one PBA season under his belt, Holt, who's built tough like a Tesla cybertruck at 6-foot-4, 190 pounds, isn't bothered by the physicality.
But the pace was something he had to adapt to since games in Europe are only 40 minutes long, not 48.
"I was playing 40 minutes a night here compared to 20-25 minutes in Europe and having more responsibility here was my biggest adjustment."
A quick learner, with the IQ of an astronaut, it won't be long until Stephen Holt completely settles in at Ginebra.
Which is bad news for the rest of the PBA.
HOLT TRIVIA. A married father to a 1-year old son, Stephen likes to spend time with family when he's not tormenting PBA teams. Hopping on the PS5 and reading are some of the things he does for fun.
Wildflour Cafe is his go-to spot to hang out and he is partial to chicken adobo and pansit.
And he loves Kerry Sports where he puts up extra work in before relaxing in the hot/cold tubs and sauna for recovery,
Superman on the court. Ordinary dude off of it.
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