PBA: Adrian Nocum rewards Yeng Guiao’s trust with career night

Rain or Shine Elasto Painters’ Adrian Nocum during a game vs Magnolia Hotshots in the 2026 PBA Governors’ Cup. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines—It’s no secret that Rain or Shine coach Yeng Guiao places great trust in his Elasto Painters.

That trust was on full display Friday in Rain or Shine’s 98-97 nail-biting win over Magnolia in the 2026 PBA Governors’ Cup at Mall of Asia Arena.

This time, Guiao put the ball in Adrian Nocum’s hands—and the young guard delivered.

“I trust his instincts. Whether he drives or shoots, that’s his decision. If the defense collapses and he gets in trouble, we have shooters spread out,” Guiao said in Filipino.

“His decision-making has improved and he’s much more consistent now.”

Rain or Shine Elasto Painters’ Adrian Nocum during a game vs Magnolia Hotshots in the 2026 PBA Governors’ Cup. –MARO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

Nocum delivered not one, but two clutch buckets for Rain or Shine, including the game-winner that put the Elasto Painters up by one, 98-97, with 5.6 seconds remaining.

“I just saw a chance to attack the defense. When I saw that I could attack their defense, I did,” Nocum said.

The Mapua product, however, didn’t shine in the fourth quarter alone.

By the end of the game, Nocum reset his career-high with 31 points that went with nine rebounds, four assists and two steals.

Rain or Shine looks to hike its win streak to four games on Sunday when Nocum and company take on Meralco at Smart Araneta Coliseum.