Rey Nambatac makes his debut for Blackwater Bossing in the PBA Philippine Cup.–PBA IMAGES
MANILA, Philippines—Blackwater coach Jeffrey Cariaso explained why having a new talent in Rey Nambatac is a luxury for a team like the Bossing.
After the squad’s 96-93 win over Meralco in the PBA Philippine Cup opener on Wednesday, Cariaso said the addition of Nambatac would be instrumental for Blackwater, especially since the player is carrying a “chip on his shoulder.”
“We understand this is just the first game and we’re happy but we’re humble about it. One thing we know, looking forward is, we know this guy’s only going to get better. I love the fact that he has a chip on shoulder and he comes in every day with something to prove,” said Cariaso.
SCHEDULE: 2024 PBA Philippine Cup
“It is just the first step but a good first step.”
In just his first game for Blackwater, Nambatac already showed why he’s someone the Bossing can rely on. He registered a double-double of 27 points and a career-high 10 assists, while not missing a single shot from the charity stripe.
“In my seven years in the PBA, I think that’s my highest in assists so I’m thankful and grateful for coach Jeff and my teammates. They have a lot of trust in me that every time I have the ball, they already know what I’ll do so all we need is eye-to-eye contact,” said the Letran product in Filipino.
READ: Nambatac makes Blackwater debut, leads win over Meralco
The streaky shooter was acquired by Blackwater a few weeks ago from his original team Rain or Shine in exchange for a first-round pick.
He averaged 9.1 points, 2.5 rebounds and 2.3 assists for the Elasto Painters in last year’s PBA Commissioner’s Cup which saw the team bow out of the quarterfinals at the hands of San Miguel.
Nambatac also admitted that he felt comfortable with the Bossing right away because most of the players under Cariaso already knew how he moves inside the court.
“As a vocal leader and player, it’s important to lead a team and I think that’s what was missing with Blackwater… It boosts my confidence because every time I tell them their tendencies, they listen. It’s a good thing that us sticking to one page worked out.”