Kevin Quiambao is demonstrating that he is on par with the continent’s best players.
In the ongoing 33rd Dubai International Basketball Championship, the reigning UAAP Most Valuable Player is averaging 18.67 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game, helping Strong Group Athletics maintain a 3-0 record.
With his string of stellar performances, the 6-foot-6 all-around forward has garnered interest from top club teams in the Middle East.
Not only that, but one federation has expressed interest in naturalizing Quiambao, – and it’s none other than the tournament host, the United Arab Emirates.
“Nung kinausap nila ako at sinabi nila na gusto nila ako i-naturalize, siyempre hindi ako nakasalita,” recalled Quiambao to Tiebreaker Times about the conversation he had with a UAE Basketball Association official over the weekend.
“Hindi ko alam yung mararamdaman ko nun. Na-amaze ako at siyempre, na-overwhelm kasi ibang usapan na ito e. Hindi lang ito about playing sa club level. National team na ang usapan dito.”
(C) FIBA.basketball
During SGA’s game against UAE, Quiambao played only 21 minutes but still managed to contribute 13 points, three rebounds, and three assists. He ended up with a plus-16 rating.
And his performance impressed the officials of the UAE.
Initially, the 22-year-old thought that what the UAE basketball official told him was just a bluff or a quip.
But the federation scheduled a meeting with him over lunch on Tuesday, indicating that they are serious about their offer.
“I’ll listen to it. Siyempre, nakakahiya naman if di ko sila pakinggan ‘di ba?” continued Quiambao.
However, Quiambao has already played six games for Gilas Pilipinas.
The process would be complicated if he decides to transfer federations, as he would need clearance from the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas first.
“If maganda yung plans nila for their national team, I’ll heavily consider it,” shared Quiambao, who spent the pandemic in Dubai to train.
“Tulad ng sabi ko kanina, ibang usapan na ito. Pero mahal ko ang bansa natin.”
