Nambatac sees bright future for Manalili

Former Letran College star Rey Nambatac had no doubts that rookie Jonathan Manalili will thrive in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) men’s basketball tournament.

Nambatac, who serves as an assistant coach for the Knights, said Manalili is a complete player despite being his first year in the Grand Old League.

The 21-year-old guard from Cebu bagged the Rookie of the Year, Freshman of the Year, and Mythical Team honors in NCAA Season 101.

“A lot of people say he's a rookie, right? But for me, he already plays like a veteran,” said Nambatac, who currently plays for TNT in the Philippine Basketball Association.

“I think I've just seen a true point guard in this generation because in my generation and in modern basketball today, it's hard to see that kind of style of play. If you're looking for a passing ability, it's already there.”

Manalili averaged 14.087 points, 8.92 assists and 5.15 rebounds in Season 101 and led Letran to its first NCAA finals since 2022.