In the high-stakes world of the PBA Commissioner’s Cup, one unheralded player has emerged as the linchpin to Eastern’s surprising playoff push. Meet Steven Guinchard, the Taiwanese-French marksman whose pinpoint shooting accuracy has opponents scrambling and fans buzzing.
The Unsung Hero of Eastern’s Cinderella Story
While Eastern entered the conference with modest expectations compared to star-studded squads like Bay Area, their unselfish brand of team basketball has propelled them to a coveted quarterfinal berth. And no player embodies that ethos more than Guinchard.
Lethal Efficiency from Deep
On a roster brimming with passing wizards like Glen Yang and Kobey Lam, Guinchard acts as the tip of the spear. His gaudy 56.7% 3PT% forces defenses to stay honest, unlocking driving lanes for his teammates. Over his last 2 games, the 32-year-old has caught absolute fire:
- 16.5 PPG
- 77.8 3PT% on 4.5 attempts
“Shots may fall in one game and sometimes it doesn’t go in the next game. But I think we relied on our energy and aggressiveness to make shots,” Guinchard said about his breakout performances.
X-Factor: The 4-Point Shot
With his shooting stroke on point, Guinchard has even experimented with the league’s novel 4-point line. While not a staple of his arsenal, the threat alone is enough to distort defenses and open up the floor.
“Looking at my teammates and seeing them all celebrating and being happy are what makes me still want to make more of those 4-point shots.”
PH Connection Fuels Inspiration
Beyond his on-court exploits, Guinchard has found an extra gear thanks to a personal tie – his Filipina wife Jessrine Celiz. Her family’s longtime PBA fandom has given the sharpshooter added motivation to leave his mark.
“My wife and her family had been watching the PBA since forever, and they know more than I do, having been familiar with the PBA.”
The Road Ahead
As Eastern battles through a grueling schedule across multiple leagues, Guinchard’s ability to deliver daggers will be paramount. His tireless work ethic and penchant for clutch moments could be the key to a deep playoff run.
With Guinchard locked in and his teammates rallying around their Guin-chardian Angel, Eastern suddenly looks the part of a bona fide contender. As the Commissioner’s Cup builds to a crescendo, all eyes will be on #7 to see if he can continue his torrid shooting and lead this feisty squad to PBA glory.
