NO doubt about it: Filipinos are prime commodities in Korea.
For the second straight year, all 10 Korean Basketball League (KBL) teams have enlisted Philippine reinforcements to play as their Asian import for the 2025-26 season which opens this weekend.
Gilas Pilipinas forward Carl Tamayo leads the delegation, as he plays his second year with defending champion Changwon LG Sakers.
He was a key contributor in last season’s title run, collecting 15.1 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 2.2 assists to also earn his place in the Mythical Team.
Fellow national team member Kevin Quiambao is also out to make up for lost time, as he returns for Goyang Sono Skygunners after coming in late last year.
But the two-time UAAP MVP wasted no time upon his arrival, notching 16.9 points, 6.3 boards, 3.9 dimes, and 1.3 steals in his 23 games there.
Reigning Rookie of the Year JD Cagulangan is also raring to go at it once again for Suwon KT SonicBoom.
Last year’s UAAP Finals MVP made a strong impression once he landed in the Land of the Morning Calm, averaging 7.3 points, 4.3 assists, 2.4 rebounds, and 1.5 steals.
Rhenz Abando is also back with a vengeance, as he tries to bring the Anyang Jung Kwan Jang Red Boosters back to the championship chase.
He was pivotal cog for the squad in its 2024 championship conquest where he nabbed 9.9 points, 4.3 rebounds, 1.1 assists, and 1.0 block.
Arvin Tolentino will try to help Seoul SK Knights get over the hump after last season’s bridesmaid finish, while William Navarro finally gets a chance to play in Korea with the Busan KCC Egis which finished near the cellar last season.
The two gear up for their first season in Korea, as they try to translate their success from the PBA to the KBL.
SJ's still standing
Going strong are pioneer SJ Belangel, who is now in his fourth year for Daegu KOGAS Pegasus and recorded career-bests with his 14.0 points, 2.9 boards, 4.8 assists, and 1.7 steals last season, and 2024 KBL MVP Ethan Alvano, who netted 16.7 points, 4.0 rebounds, 5.8 assists, and 1.7 steals last year for Wonju DB Promy.
Completing the roster of FIlipino imports in Korea are Justin Gutang for Seoul Samsung Thunders and Migs Oczon for Ulsan Hyundai Mobis Phoebus.
As the case last season, teams will play 54 elimination games, with the top two teams earning an automatic semifinal slot and teams ranked third to sixth playing in a best-of-five quarterfinals. The semifinals is a best-of-five, while the championship is a best-of-seven.
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