Kevin Quiambao was not fielded in against New Zealand but made the most of every moment when he was tapped vs. Hong Kong in the FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers.
Kevin Quiambao did not mind sitting out Gilas Pilipinas' 93-89 win over New Zealand in the second window of the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers.
Instead, Quiambao simply stayed ready.
So when he was finally given the opportunity against world No. 117 Hong Kong on Sunday, Nov. 24, Quiambao pounced on it.
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The UAAP Most Valuable Player from defending champion La Salle turned in eight points built on two triples he complemented with four rebounds and three assists to help power Gilas to a ruthless 93-54 repeat thumping of its foe.
Kevin Quiambao delivers in Gilas Pilipinas' second window battle with Hong Kong in the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers on Sunday, Nov. 24. | Photo (c) RM Chua/One Sports
Quiambao was on the court for nearly 21 minutes.
"Nagbunga na 'yung hard work na ginawa ko. Lagi kong sinasabi sa sarili kong stay ready lang kahit anong mangyari," Quiambao said shortly after the match at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
"Kung hindi makakuha ng minutes, kung makakuha man ng minutes, nandiyan ako para sumuporta sa team ko. Alam ko naman ang role ko."
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The 23-year-old forward also made special mention of deputy coach LA Tenorio, who reminded him of his readiness to answer his team's call even after not being tapped against the Tall Blacks.
“Noong hindi ako nakakuha ng minutes sa New Zealand, lagi niya (Tenorio) akong pinaaalalahanang stay ready lang,” Quiambao said.
“Naging professional lang ako na basketball is basketball, walang personalan. Ready lang naman ako palagi.”