Barako Bull gives head coach Koy Banal his first victory in the PBA

After absorbing their fifth loss against Barangay Ginebra, Barako Bull gave their head coach Koy Banal his first victory in the PBA with an 87-71 thrashing of expansion team Kia Sorento on Sunday.

Barako came out short against the Gin Kings in their previous match despite controlling most of the game. The team, however, felt good about their game plan and thought they were headed in the right direction.

"I told them that we will be smarter next time. And that's what we did today," Banal told reporters in the post-game press conference. "Hindi kami nagpressure all throughout the game. At least kahit papaano we reserved some more energy especially down the stretch."

Banal said that he went to Cchurch this morning and relayed the sermon entitled "wait expectedly" to inspire his players coming into the game.

"'Yung five games namin that we failed to get the W, I believe we need to be really be expectant of good things to come," he said. "It was good that everybody responded."

The rookie coach also credited his veteran player Mick Pennisi for stepping up and leading his teammates.

"He was maybe inspired by how Eric Menk played last game," Banal said. "You can see him on the floor, he's all over the guys, he keeps on reminding them to stay focused all throughout the game."

With the victory, Banal is hoping for more positive results in the coming games.

"Sana ito ang gamitin naming spring board," he said.

Barako is set to face the undefeated Alaska Aces on Wednesday, but the coach puts his faith on his team.

"Walang imposible sa naniniwala. Anything is possible to those who believe," Banal said. "That's what I've been reminding the players." - RAF, GMA News