Rising PBA stars agree lockdown is a must amid pandemic

They may be playing for different teams but two of the country’s rising stars in the PBA agreed on one thing: the league lockdown is a must during this time of public health emergency brought about by COVID-19.

Jeron Teng of Alaska Aces and Rain or Shine’s Rey Nambatac, who also made waves during their collegiate years, said the pro league headed by commissioner Willie Marcial made a sound decision in postponing the ongoing PBA Philippine Cup.

‘’Saddened, but I understand the situation because this is for the safety of everyone,’’ said the 26-year-old Teng, who had two UAAP titles, while playing for the DLSU Green Archers.

Nambatac, who keyed Letran’s triumphant journey to the 2015 NCAA crown, said the lockdown cannot be avoided because of the current crisis.

‘’It’s for the safety of all of us and the fans. I’m hoping and praying that this crisis will soon end,’’ said Nambatac, who hails from Cagayan de Oro City.

Both Teng and Nambatac said they are keeping fit by doing workouts at home.

Teng, whose father is PBA veteran Alvin Teng, said he’s very lucky that they have a basketball court at home. His elder brother Jeric also plays in the pros after a stellar career with the UST Tigers in the UAAP.

‘’I do shooting and workout every day to keep in shape so that there’ll be little adjustments when practices resume,’’ said the Aces do-it-all guard. “I just try to improve all the time and be the best player that I can be.’’

Nambatac, whose ability to deliver during crunchtime made him a crowd darling and now holds a regular spot in the backcourt rotation of coach Caloy Garcia, is also not slowing down.

‘’It’s all about hardwork and dedication to get what you want. It has been my dream to play in the PBA since elementary days. I always tell my father, who played in Cebu, that I’ll be a professional player, someday.’’ said Nambatac.

Nambatac and his girlfriend Kisha, a village councilwoman, distributed alcohol and washable masks, joining a long list of professional dribblers, who are giving their share to the less fortunate.

After three years of toiling in the league, Teng and Nambatac believe the best is yet to come.

‘’It’s really great! Living out my dream since I was a kid. I just try to improve all the time and be the best player that I can be.,’’ said Teng, who like Nambatac thanked the Aces and Elasto Painters fans for their support.