Get to know PBA rookie Evan Nelle of the NorthPort Batang Pier.
After a standout collegiate career with the De La Salle Green Archers and the San Beda Red Lions, where he secured both UAAP and NCAA championships, Evan Nelle is set on bringing his playmaking skills to the pros with the NorthPort Batang Pier.
“I’m trying to be one of the facilitators of my team,” Nelle shared to One Sports, as he prepares for his rookie campaign in the PBA Season 49 Governors’ Cup.
As a rookie, Nelle is pressed to find a role in the PBA, and his bread and butter should be a good fit to the Batang Pier, who already boast a strong core of capable scorers like Jio Jalalon, Arvin Tolentino, and Josh Munzon.
“So, I’m going to focus on my role and make my shots when I have the chance,” Nelle said.
Coming into the PBA as the 14th overall pick, talent is winning experience are not the only things that Nelle will take with him.
Evan’s pre-game routine will also come, a routine that he revealed as preferring solitude before game day until he goes to sleep.
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“But my meal the day before is always steak, mashed potato, corn, and rice,” he said.
His go-to beverage? An iced white chocolate mocha, which fuels him as he gears up for the game.
Nelle's routine also involves working out with his head coach in Bonnie Tan, while listening to music through his headphones.
Nelle's music choices reflect his distinct personality. He’s a fan of Rod Wave and anything by Red Orange County.
“I’m a Rod Wave guy or anything Red Orange County,” he noted.
In the quick-fire round of Fast Talk with One Sports, Nelle’s responses were as swift as his play on the court. When asked about lights on or off, he responded with a smile, “lights on.”
He preferred the beach over the mountains and chose a golden retriever over a cat as his ideal pet.
Nelle found it tough to pick between a three-point area or a four-point line, but eventually answered, "Four points para bago naman."