Kevin Quiambao once again demonstrated why he is one of the elite collegiate players in Philippine basketball.
The Season 86 Most Valuable Player and champion sank a go-ahead three-pointer, leading De La Salle University past National University, 78-75, to give the Green Archers a dream start to their UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Men’s Basketball campaign on Sunday at the SMART Araneta Coliseum.
In a game that required grit and determination for the Green Archers to escape the Bulldogs, Quiambao knew it was his time to step up and lead his team to victory.
Despite the tough battle, his mindset remained focused on seizing the moment.
“I think, first of all, ‘di nagki-click yung gusto namin itakbo buong game,” Quiambao shared.
He went on, “Sinabi ko lang sa sarili ko na kailangan kong mag-take over. Kailangan namin makuha nung guy na masasandalan nila. Ang ginawa ko lang is naging glue guy lang ako.
“Nag-lead by example ako and then good thing pumasok yung tira ko. Sanay naman akong nasisisi. Sinisisi ako nito [Coach Topex Robinson] buong laro eh.”
Reflecting on his game-winning shot, he added, “Nung time na yun, nung nakita kong tumama sa screen si Steve Nash (Enriquez), may one or two seconds ako na tinignan ko yung ring, tinignan ko yung ginawa ng depensa.
“Hindi nag-help yung corner guy. Tinake advantage ko na libre ako and then good thing pumasok yung tira ko.”
Quiambao’s ability to rise to the occasion solidifies his place as a once-in-a-generation talent for La Salle, reminiscent of former Green Archers greats like Jun Limpot, Renren Ritualo, and Jeron Teng.
His strong bond with head coach Topex Robinson has also played a crucial role in his development, giving him the confidence to take charge when needed.
Coaches recognize when they have a special player, and Robinson – a former PBA and NCAA mentor – has entrusted Quiambao with the freedom to grow and make key decisions during critical moments.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
“That’s the beauty of having him. Those last few possessions of the game wherein he’s gonna make the right decision. I always tell this to our team: Kevin will win games for us and he will lose games for us,” Robinson said.
“He made five turnovers, which was evidence of the freedom that he has. Sinabi nga niya kanina, sisisihin ko rin siya kahit ano mangyari. So he took the better route, which was not only getting himself open but getting his teammates open.”
Robinson also credited the team’s defensive efforts in the final possessions, highlighting how they secured crucial stops and rebounds.
“What’s good about those last possessions was our defense. I think na-over ano lang yung tira niya, but the way those guys defended, them getting those crucial stops and crucial rebounds is a testament to how much these guys really want to win,” said Robinson.
“That’s gonna be the story of our season. We’re always gonna grind it out with the teams we’re gonna face.”
With 13 games left in the elimination round, the sky’s the limit for Quiambao. His stardom is already cemented, and he continues to build a highlight reel of clutch performances that will be remembered long after his college career ends.
For Quiambao, it’s all about staying ready for the next big moment.
“Yung confidence ay nagmumula sa ensayo,” he explained.
“Kung ano yung tinitira mo sa game, yun ang ginagawa mo every day sa practice.”
