Giovanni Pineda
Cebu Gems

A man who is afraid of not getting married especially now that he is 27, Giovanni "Giov" Pineda of Cebu Gems plays center/forward. You can easily spot this guy ‘coz he towers among the other players. This 6’5" and 188 lb. man is graced with such height that could probably shape his future. His height is one of the reasons why he decided to play basketball.

The eldest son of Mr. Eddie Pineda, a Real estate broker, and Mrs. Corazon Pineda, a Barangay Councilor, Giov was born last August 2 at Pasig City. Giovanni is striving so hard as to achieve his plans for his family. Now, being the breadwinner, getting married is not yet his priority in life but hopes that sooner or later, a girl of his dream might come.

Giov had his elementary days in Pasig Catholic College and had his high school memories in University of Santo Tomas where he started as a varsity player. When in college, he took up Business Management in Adamson School. He decided to try-out at Adamson basketball varsity team and fortunately was accepted by the team. According to his teammates, his height is a great contribution to them.

Being a professional player, he first started playing in Philippine Basketball Association. His first team was in Alaska Milkman in 1995. In 1997, he decided to transfer at Shell Remula-X and when MBA needs his service, he joined the Pasig Rizal Pirates and now at Cebu Gems.

Playing at Cebu Gems is very difficult for him because his afraid that the Cebuano players might not welcome him, but after a month of staying here, Giov already feels at home.

Giov’s dedication to the team is one way of showing on how thankful he is for being part of the Gems.

By Lim, Monette
STC Masscom Intern