They say the first time is always the sweetest.

TNT guard Rey Nambatac felt that way as he finally fulfilled his childhood dream of winning a PBA championship just in his first conference with the Tropang Giga.

So when the confetti fell after the final game buzzer sounded, the former Letran star let out a big and happy roar, pumping his fists in sheer ecstasy before hugging his teammates and coaches one after another.

He was as emotional as he was when he led the Knights to the NCAA championship in 2015.

“Finally after seven years, nakaabot din sa tuktok,” said Nambatac following TNT’s title-clinching 95-85 win against Ginebra in Game 6 of the Govs’ Cup finale at the Big Dome last Friday, Nov. 8.

“To be honest, hindi ko ini-expect, [dahil] na minsan nang dumating sa isip ko na nawalan ako ng gana na makaabot pa sa finals,” he added.

His PBA career actually blossomed at Rain or Shine where he established himself the team’s top gunner for years. But he had little success with ROS though they made great effort each game. He also had a brief stint with Blackwater.

The 30-year-old guard said his transfer to TNT turned out to be a blessing in disguise knowing very well of the team’s winning legacy. It was the “kick” he needed to push himself even more.

“But then again, blessing in disguise na napunta ako sa TNT. Like what I’ve said many times sa mga interview, ito ‘yong pinaka-best shot ko na with TNT,” Nambatac continued.

“Na makatikim ako ng finals and makapag-champion and nandito na ako finally, masasabi ko na sa sarili ko na isa na akong champion sa PBA,” added Nambatac, who tallied 12 points, six rebounds and two assists in that crucial tiff.