ADRIAN Nocum’s journey to Gilas Pilipinas has come full circle, from a dream he shared with his then-girlfriend during the pandemic to preparing to fly out with the national team for the 2026 Asian Games.
Nocum’s wife, Shekinah Ruth Bernardo Nocum, looked back on those early conversations in a heartfelt Facebook post as the Rain or Shine guard joined the 11 PBA players leaving for Seoul on Wednesday ahead of Gilas’ buildup for the Asiad.
“From manifestation to reality,” Shekinah wrote.
She recalled their first long-distance relationship during the pandemic, when Nocum was still in college and had already told her about his ambition to one day represent the Philippines.
“Six years ago, college days mo pa lang, and I still remember you telling me how you wanted to play for the country someday,” she wrote.
At the time, the dream was something the couple could only talk about while they were separated during lockdown.
“Back then, it was just a dream we talked about habang naka-lockdown tayo,” continued Shekinah
Now, that dream is no longer just a possibility.
“Fast forward to today… we’re living the very moment we once only imagined,” Shekinah wrote.
She described Nocum’s latest departure as their “second LDR,” but said this one carries a completely different meaning because the dream they once talked about is finally happening.
“The dream you once spoke about is no longer a ‘malay mo.’ It’s happening right in front of us, daddy!” said Mrs. Nocum.
Shekinah also credited their faith for helping turn those hopes into reality.
“God really turns prayers, dreams, and little manifestations into reality,” she said.
She ended her message with a simple sendoff for her husband, “so proud of you, always. Have a safe flight, daddy! I love you so much!”
And with a playful nod to his nickname, she added: “Banat para sa Pilipinas, my Air Nocum,” said Shekinah.
Nocum is part of the 11-man PBA contingent traveling to Seoul ahead of two friendly matches against South Korea, with the group forming the core of the Philippines’ Asian Games squad.
The national team’s 12th and final roster spot remains open for Justin Brownlee, who is still recovering from injuries.
For Nocum, however, the journey has already reached a milestone he once only imagined during lockdown. (Jesus Nathaniel Valdez)
