By REYNALD MAGALLON
Rain or Shine made sure to secure its future and signed rising star Adrian Nocum to a three-year contract extension, the team announced on Monday, July 1.
The 25-year-old high-flying guard has made big waves in the PBA ever since the Elasto Painters took him as the 24th overall pick in the rookie draft two years ago.
The third-year pro signed the deal in the presence of team governor Atty. Mamerto Mondragon, assistant team manager Jireh Ibanez and his representative Danny Espiritu.
Nocum reportedly signed up to a contract close to the league’s maximum of P420,000 a month. “Dadating din sya sa max. But our bosses gave him what he deserves,” said a source privy to the deal.
Nocum has become a vital part to Rain or Shine’s resurgence in the past two seasons, highlighted by their three-straight semifinals appearance in the ongoing PBA 49th season.
Currently, through three games in the semis, Nocum is emerging as one of ROS’ point of attacks averaging a team-best 16.67 points to go with 3.67 rebounds, 3.33 assists and 1.67 steals.
With Nocum’s extension, ROS has assured itself of keeping its core at least up until the next year. Anton Asistio and Leonard Santillan both signed a three-year deal last year while Andrei Caracut, Jhonard Clarito and Gian Mamuyac are signed until 2026.
