It was a dream debut for Juan Gomez de Liano who tallied a triple-double in his very first PBA match-15 points, 11 assists, and 10 rebounds-in Converge’s 129-92 triumph over Titan Ultra last October 11.
‘Honestly, it is a dream come true for me to be able to play in the PBA and to even pull off a historic feat,’ reflected Juan who starred for the University of the Philippines and Marinerong Pilipino in the amateurs. He also played professionally in the B.League in Japan, the Lithuanian Basketball League, and Korean Basketball League after which he returned home to play in the PBA.
The six-foot guard was drafted second overall by the Converge FiberXers.
‘I always imagined what it would be like to play on this stage. Now that I am here, it is surreal. I’m just grateful for the opportunity.’
Gomez de Liano grew up idolizing Jimmy Alapag and Alex Cabagnot.
‘I admired the way Jimmy and Alex played,’ said Juan of his inspirations. ‘They were consistent in how they led their teams. It wasn’t just their skills, but also their leadership and heart on the court that inspired me.’
Gomez de Liano showed his potential when he was named University Athletic Association of the Philippines Rookie of the Year in 2017, made it to the UAAP Mythical Team in 2018, and was hailed Most Valuable Player in the PBA D-League Aspirants’ Cup in 2022.
‘Right now, I am just locked in and doing whatever is needed for Converge to win. That triple double.my name is across it but it is a team effort.’