Numbers and statistics may explain why Kevin Quiambao is now a back-to-back MVP in the UAAP, but for Topex Robinson, it goes beyond that.
The De La Salle University head coach believes it is Quiambao’s coachability and humility that truly make him the MVP.
This was evident in Game 2 of the UAAP Season 87 men’s basketball finals, with the Green Archers’ backs against the wall after losing Game 1. Despite being La Salle’s best player and the reigning MVP for two consecutive seasons, Quiambao started the game on the bench—a bold move by the coaching staff.
Even with his status, the 6-foot-6 forward accepted the role without hesitation, knowing it could give the Green Archers an edge.
“When we were planning how we were going to approach Game 2, there were a lot of discussions amongst the coaches, and when I told KQ that he wouldn’t start, he just said, ‘Okay, coach,’” Robinson shared.
Quiambao still ended up playing the most minutes for La Salle, logging 32 minutes and 18 seconds on the floor. He finished with 22 points, nine rebounds, two assists, and a steal, leading the Green Archers to a 76-75 victory to force a deciding Game 3.
His late-game heroics helped La Salle rally from an eight-point deficit midway through the fourth quarter, much to the delight of the 17,122 fans in the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
“That’s already a sign of somebody who trusts the system, trusts the person calling the shots, and you don’t hear any questions from him. No reaction. He said, ‘Kung ano yung makakabuti sa team, doon ako, coach,’” Robinson added.
Quiambao’s attitude reflects the strong bond within the Green Archers and their willingness to take on any role that will benefit the team.
Mike Phillips also played a crucial role, contributing 18 points and 12 rebounds. EJ Gollena and JC Macalalag each scored nine points, while Raven Gonzales added timely hits for eight points.
“This goes for everybody. Sabi ko nga, it’s okay that we bicker, we fight, we hate each other in practice, we kinda go at it. But time and time again, if somebody from the outside tries to hurt us, we’re always gonna present a united front,” Robinson said.
“That’s always gonna be for us. We discussed it yesterday, and I said, it’s always a blessing to have these guys. I’m just so grateful that we have these players and go to battle with them. I’m really thankful that these guys are responding to the challenge.”
