Stephen Holt is expected to take a major role on both ends of the floor when Ginebra and TNT collide in the PBA Season 49 Governors’ Cup Finals.
There’s probably no Ginebra player as hungry as Stephen Holt to win a PBA title.
As well traveled as he is, Holt has never won any championship since 2017, back when we has still overseas in the Czech League. Some seven years later, he is four wins away from a new one.
“It’s crazy. I’ve been so close in Europe to winning a championship. I’m still hungry. Last championship was in 2017 so it’s been a long time,” said the 32-year-old sophomore.
The near-decade quest for a trophy is why Holt wants one now with the Gin Kings, who bested San Miguel in the best-of-seven PBA Season 49 Governors’ Cup semifinals, 4-2.
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“I know what this culture is about, putting the Ginebra jersey on and what it means to the fans,” he said.
“Now that we have this opportunity — we never know how many more we’ll be in the Finals or be in this opportunity — like I said, we have to enjoy it tonight but again we have to prepare and get ready for Game 1," Holt added.
As close as he is to another title, Holt is under no illusion that his first PBA trophy will come easy.
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Standing between him and PBA glory are the TNT Tropang Giga, which boast of former Best Import Rondae Hollis-Jefferson.
RHJ has done almost everything for the injury-riddled Tropang Giga, from steering them to the top of Group A at the end of elimination round to disposing of Group B leader Rain or Shine in the semifinals. TNT will also enter the Finals against Ginebra as defending champion.
“It’s gonna be a total team effort,” Holt said, when asked about the task of guarding the former Brooklyn Net.
“He’s a great player. You can't stop him. You Just have to limit his touches, make every shot difficult and gang rebound. Its gonna be a tough task but we’re very excited.”
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Game 1 of the Finals is set on October 27 at the Ynares Sports Arena in Antipolo, with Holt hopeful his team will gain the headstart in the best-of-seven series.
“Hopefully we can take this next step on our journey and come out with a great performance on Sunday,” he said.