Kevin Quiambao received a much-needed confidence boost in the Philippines’ dominant 93-54 victory over Hong Kong, which propelled the team closer to securing an outright berth in the FIBA Asia Cup 2025.
With this win, the Philippines will hope New Zealand will take care of business against Chinese Taipei on Monday to formally confirm their ticket.
Thanks to key contributions from Quiambao and La Salle teammate Mason Amos, the Philippines extended its lead to as much as 39 points – sealing a commanding victory over Hong Kong and maintaining Gilas’ perfect record in the qualifiers.
After sitting out the Philippines’ historic win over New Zealand, the 6-foot-6 all-around forward finished the game with eight points, five rebounds, and four assists.
“I think sobrang laking boost nito dahil isa ako sa mga leaders sa La Salle. So yung experience na ito dadalhin ko, ipapayo ko sa mga teammates ko sa La Salle. Hindi dito matatapos lahat, kailangan ko pa magtrabaho,” Quiambao said.
“Stay ready lang ako palagi. Dadating yung opportunity na ‘yan, hindi mo alam kung kailan darating kaya dapat stay ready lang lagi.”
Another confidence booster for the 23-year-old forward was the unwavering support and trust from head coach Tim Cone, his teammates, and the rest of the coaching staff.
Knowing that the winningest PBA coach in history has faith in his abilities, Quiambao feels more motivated as La Salle prepares to begin its title defense in the Final Four, set to begin on Saturday, November 30, at the SMART Araneta Coliseum.
“Sobrang sarap sa feeling dahil kahit hindi ako nakakuha nung last game, may sumusuporta pa rin sa akin and sa buong team namin,” the reigning UAAP MVP said.
“Confidence booster para sa akin ‘yon and nakuha ko naman yung rhythm and groove ko sa game.”
