KEVIN Quiambao returned to the court with quality minutes in Gilas Pilipinas’ blowout win over Hong Kong in the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers.
Three days after sitting out the first game of Fiba Window 2 against New Zealand, Quiambao had eight points, five rebounds, four assists, one steal, and one block in the Philippines’ 93-54 win over Hong Kong on Sunday night.
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It was his first game at home in the qualifiers to the delight of his fans, who were also clamoring for him to play in the Hong Kong game.
“Nagbunga ‘yung hardwork na ginawa ko,” said Quiambao. “’Yun lagi sinasabi ko sa sarili ko na stay ready lang kahit anong mangyari. Kung hindi man ako makakuha ng minutes o makakuha man ako, nandiyan lang ako para sumuporta sa team.”
The 23-year-old Quiambao said there was specifically one member of the coaching staff who told him to be always ready at all times.
“Si coach LA Tenorio, since hindi ako nakakuha ng minutes [against New Zealand], pinaalalahanan ako na stay ready lang. Naging professional ako. Basketball is basketball. Walang personalan. Ready naman ako palagi,” said Quiambao.
The La Salle standout said he knows his role in the team and expected that there would be times that he won’t be able to play in some of the games of Gilas.
“Alam ko naman ‘yung role ko. Thankful ako na dumating ‘yung opportunity. Tine-take advantage ko lang. Thankful ako kay coach na binigyan ako ng tiwala,” said Quiambao.
Quiambao, who will be playing in the UAAP Final Four of Season 87, said the wins are more important than his playing time as he was also able to contribute to the team even while not playing.
“Nakuha naman natin ‘yung panalo. Historic ‘yung win [vs New Zealand]. Baguhan ako sa Gilas. Tanggap ko naman ang role ko,” said Quiambao.
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