REY Nambatac failed to contain his feelings following the departure of Letran coach Aldin Ayo, but nonetheless vowed to carry on the lessons he learned from his former mentor.
The third-year forward from Cagayan de Oro admitted it was hard for him to see Ayo leave for La Salle, especially after he steered the Intramuros-based squad to its first title in the NCAA in a decade last season.
“Malungkot talaga ako, sobra akong nalungkot,” said Nambatac. “Pinigilan ko lang 'yung iyak ko eh kasi sabi ni coach sa amin na, ‘Kailangan matapang kayo, 'wag ninyong ipapakita sa kalaban niyo na mahina loob niyo,’ kaya pinakita ko na matatag ako.”
Nambatac is expected to take the lead in Letran’s title-retention bid next season following the exit of stalwarts Mark Cruz and Kevin Racal.
Although Ayo only stayed for a year with Letran, the 21-year old Nambatac said the wisdom of his coach will remain with him as the reigning champions prepare for the next NCAA season.
Nambatac insisted more than the basketball skills and knowledge, Ayo imparted a high level of discipline and respect for others in the Knights.
“Marami talaga akong natutunan sa kanya especially 'yung pag-discipline ng sarili, kung paano i-balance ang mga bagay kasi minsan sobrang nag-eenjoy ka na sa basketball 'yung mga priorities mo na ibang bagay nakakalimutan mo na. Isa 'yun sa mga natutunan ko sa kanya,” he said.
“And then 'yung matuto akong makibagay sa mga tao na 'wag mo munang i-judge agad, si coach ang nagturo sa amin na may tao ka man na hindi kilala sa personal, iyan ang puso niyan napakalambot at napakabait,” he added.
“'Yun ang dadalhin ko sa team namin and 'yung pagiging matatag na samahan na iniwan ni coach sa amin, kasi para sa akin ito ang pinaka-best na team kasi grabe ang samahan hindi teammates ang turingan namin dito kundi magkakapatid,” he continued.