Rey Nambatac vs NLEX defenders. PBA IMAGES
MANILA, Philippines — Rey Nambatac wasted no time in making his presence felt early in the new PBA season.
The Rain or Shine guard got off to a strong start as he led his team to a 2-0 record in the Philippine Cup.
Elasto Painters coach Chris Gavina was all praise for Nambatac, whom he said has embraced playing the starring role.
“He loves the pressure. He’s built for it. He has grown and developed, and his confidence has come a long way. I think he knows now that he is starting to separate himself in regards to being able to take over a game and he likes it.”
“I’m hoping that he can continue that mindset as we move forward,” he said.
The 27-year-old former Letran ace, who was named the first PBA Press Corps Player of the Week this season, posted 19 points and eight rebounds in Rain of Shine’s 83-82 win over NLEX in the opener.
Nambatac, then, dropped 21 points and 12 rebounds in the Painters’ 72-61 rout of Blackwater on Sunday.