Amidst another interesting off-season for De La Salle University, one of its key players during its campaign in the UAAP Season 85 Men’s Basketball Tournament has vowed to return next season.
Kevin Quiambao is this season’s Rookie of the year with averages of 11.23 points, 6.54 rebounds, 3.23 assists, and 1.08 steals. And he has announced that he will be back for the Green Archers’ campaign in Season 86.
“Babalik ako for Season 86,” said the Gilas Pilipinas pool member. “Nakausap ko naman lahat ng La Salle (tungkol sa) yung goal namin na mag-champion next season.
“Kailangan ko ibalik yung crown sa Taft. Babalik ako for Season 86.”
It was a disappointing campaign for the Green Archers. After finishing in third place in Season 84, they were expected to make a run at the championship for the first time since 2017 when they were led by Ben Mbala.
Alas, some things were just not meant to be. La Salle eventually lost to Adamson University for the playoff for the fourth seed. That marked the third time in five seasons the Green Archers failed to make the Final Four, and the disappointment lingers.
“This season roller coaster ride. Sobrang daming injuries. Lahat ng challenges, hinarap namin,” said the 6-foot-4 point forward. “Yun lang talaga hindi namin naabot yung goal namin.
“Bali next season try namin makuha yung championship at try namin maging healthy lahat kami.”
With Quiambao winning the Rookie of the Year gong, he joins the likes of Jeron Teng, Aljun Melecio, and Andrei Caracut as recipients of the said honor while playing for the Green and White.
While the significance of his achievement isn’t lost on him, he is now focusing on a Season 86 title charge with the Green Archers.
“Sobrang sarap sa pakiramdam siyempre na manalo ng ganitong award. Especially yung mga teammates ko, credit sa lahat ng teammates ko na nagpagaling sa akin buong season,” said the Nazareth School of National University product.
“Yun nga, sobrang happy ako sa Rookie of the Year pero hindi namin nakuha yung goal namin na mag-champion this season. Bawi na lang.”
