TNT's Rey Nambatac. PBA Images
MANILA, Philippines – After seven years, Rey Nambatac can finally call himself a PBA champion.
Nambatac helped TNT capture its 10th title against Barangay Ginebra, contributing 12 points and six rebounds to the 95-85 win in Game 6 on Friday at the Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.
READ: And still: TNT denies Ginebra anew, retains Governors Cup crown
The 5-foot-11 guard admitted losing interest after multiple failed campaigns in the PBA. But finally, he is now on top.
"Nakaabot din sa tuktok," Nambatac said in relief. "Honestly, 'di ko talaga in-expect [kasi] minsan, dumating na sa isip ko na nawalan ako ng gana, na makaabot pa ako ng finals. But again, blessing in disguise na napunta ako sa TNT."
READ: PBA: TNT beats Ginebra in blowout fashion, on brink of Govs Cup title
Nambatac was traded to TNT from Blackwater in July in exchange for Kib Montalbo, Jewel Ponferada, and a future draft pick.
The Colegio de San Juan de Letran product has always believed that being in TNT was his best shot at winning a PBA title—and now, it has materialized.
"Like what I have said many times with my interviews, ito 'yung pinaka-best shot ko na, with TNT, na makatikim ako ng finals and makapag-champion," said Nambatac.
"And andito na ako, finally. Masasabi ko na sa sarili ko na isa na akong champion sa PBA."
Nambatac was drafted in the league in 2017, chosen by the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters at 7th overall.
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