Rey Nambatac’s Long-Awaited PBA Finals Dream
In his extensive PBA career, Rey Nambatac has never reached the finals. However, with TNT’s victory in Game 1 of the PBA Governors’ Cup semifinals against Rain or Shine, he’s hopeful that his dream is within reach.
Nambatac demonstrated his determination by scoring 14 points, including 11 in the third quarter, and securing nine rebounds in the 90-81 win at Philsports Arena on Wednesday night.
“Isa pa sa mga nakakatawa dito sa journey ko sa PBA, sa seven years ko hindi pa ako naka-experience ng finals appearance,” said the veteran guard from Letran.
“For me, ito yung best opportunity ko, yung best shot ko para maka-experience naman ng PBA finals. Kaya siguro maganda yung nilalaro ko dahil motivated ako, yun talaga yung mindset ko.”
The closest Nambatac came to the finals was during the 2019 Philippine Cup semifinals with Rain or Shine. The series extended to Game 7, which was decided by Rome Dela Rosa’s controversial three-pointer, leading to a 63-60 win for the Magnolia Hotshots.
Now, at 30 years old, Nambatac is nearing his dream once again, albeit at the expense of his former team.
“Ang dami kong pala-isipan. Kasi isang conference pa lang ang nakalipas, sila (Rain or Shine) agad yung nakaharap ko,” said Nambatac, who was acquired by TNT in a trade with Blackwater before Season 49.
“Sabi ko nga, hindi ba puwedeng next year na lang kami mag-kaharap kasi parang ang bilis naman ng pangyayari,” he added with a laugh. “Pero siguro may reason bakit kami nagharap kaagad. Pero all love lang. No hate, all love. Kung hindi naman din sa kanila (Rain or Shine), wala rin naman tayo dito.”
May the best team win. (RG)
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