BACK in October 21, 2023 when Kevin Quiambao was one assist shy of a triple-double versus University of the East, La Salle head coach Topex Robinson bared how his sophomore ace nearly sat the game out altogether.
READ: La Salle wins UAAP title as UP fires blanks in wild finish to Game 3
That same day marked the fourth death anniversary of his 'Tatay' Dha Argana, Quiambao's grandfather who he described as one of two father figures who taught him the game of basketball.
"Kevin (Quiambao) came here in this game with so much emotion because it’s his lolo’s death anniversary. He was even contemplating on missing this game because he grew up with his grandparents.
"That’s why he said prior to the game: ‘Coach, ikaw na’ng bahala sa ’kin. I might not really be okay.’ It’s because it’s something so attached sa kanya," Robinson said after La Salle's first-round win against UE, in which Quiambao posted 17 points, 12 boards, and nine assists.
READ: La Salle wins UAAP title as UP fires blanks in wild finish to Game 3
Just over a month later, Quiambao stands tall as a newly crowned UAAP champion, Finals MVP, and league MVP after also being hailed Rookie of the Year back in Season 85.
And more than the historic feats he had set all-year long, the immeasurable chance to honor the memory of his Tatay Dha was his greatest prize of all.
"Sobrang special for me (ng championship na 'to) dahil ‘yung lolo ko nga, siya ‘yung number one factor kung bakit nagba-basketball pa ako. Tinuro niya sa’kin lahat," Quiambao told SPIN.ph.
And as KQ looks on to what promises to be an incredibly bright future ahead — may it be in Taft or elsewhere — he'll always keep the memories of his grandfather then, now, and forever.
WATCH:
"Siya ‘yung inspirasyon ko na kahit wala na siya dito sa mundo, inaalay ko sa kanya lahat ‘to," said Quiambao.
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