Over his nine-year pro career, Stephen Holt has played all around the world. Since graduating from Saint Mary’s in 2014, Holt has played in the G League and for various teams in Australia and Europe.
That’s why it was a no-brainer for Terrafirma to select him as the first overall pick in the 2023 PBA Draft.
However, Holt’s decision to return to his homeland was not because he was already washed up. In fact, he was a productive guard for CSM Oradea last season, averaging 7.56 points, 2.35 rebounds, and 1.90 assists per game.
The 31-year-old Filipino-American guard had to fulfill his grandfather’s wish to see him play in the PBA, which is why he seized the opportunity to obtain his Philippine passport in June.
“I talked with my agent, Marvin Espiritu, during this time, and it was a no-brainer for me to take advantage of that and make the jump to the PBA,” shared Holt moments after being selected as the top pick in this year’s class.
“It’s definitely one of my career goals to play in the PBA. I started my career pursuing my NBA dream, which fell a bit short, but I was able to have a long career in Europe and play in some high-level leagues,” continued Holt, who played for Canton in the G League and Atlanta in the NBA Summer League.
Returning home, however, will require a full-time commitment from Holt. Just three weeks ago, he became a proud father, and in the PBA, long-term contracts are the norm, making the possibility of moving to the Philippines a reality for him and his family.
“I had to fully commit and turn down numerous European offers this summer. I really wanted to commit to the PBA for the upcoming year, so I’m very excited,” Holt stated.
Nevertheless, Holt is taking it one step at a time, and on November 5, he is prepared to lead Terrafirma to success.
“I’m a two-way player, committed on both ends of the floor, both defensively and offensively. I’m known for my shooting ability, and I’m pretty athletic. I can rebound and get to the basket. I’m definitely going to try to make an impact on and off the floor,” he concluded.
