Does anyone out there know how to make a trophy cabinet? Because Kevin Quiambao is going to need a bigger one.
With Mythical Five, season MVP, Finals MVP, and championship trophies now in his possession—in addition to his Rookie of the Year plum—it's not crazy to believe he will win more accolades in the UAAP.
But the De La Salle Green Archers main man is not one to gloat. While he's arguably the country's best college player right now, he has always deflected credit. He's quick to tip his hat to his support group, particularly coach Topex Robinson.
KQ has repeatedly touted Robinson for molding him into the player he is today: Tough, well-rounded, and smart.
"Thank you, Coach Topex. Ito," said a wide-smiling Quiambao, as he pointed to Robinson who was seated beside him in the postgame press conference after Game 3 of the finals. "Ito nag-unleash ng potential ko."
ALSO READ: La Salle superstar Kevin Quiambao to join exodus to Japan
KQ also expressed his gratitude to the OGs. The guys who paved the way for him. The ones who established the winning culture of the Green Archers.
"Thank you sa lahat ng naunang players, mga legend," added Quiambao.
But there was one La Salle icon in particular whom KQ singled out.
"Actually, after nung Game 1, matagal kami nag-usap ni kuya Mac Cardona. Talagang nagbigay siya ng advice sa'kin, knowing na 'yung career niya nga (was filled with) ups and downs. Sobrang happy ako na nagkaroon ako ng encouraging words (galing) sa kanya," revealed Quiambao. "Thank you, Kuya Mac. Love you."
KQ wasn't his dominant self in Game 1, as they got embarrassed by the UP Fighting Maroons. He only scored 11 points on 4-of-10 shooting from the field. He had a hard time figuring out how he was being covered by Harold Alarcon and Reyland Torres. He knew he had to be better for the Green Archers to have a shot at capturing the title.
ALSO READ: GUTS AND GLORY | Should UAAP reserve MVP award for local players only?
Obviously, Cardona's advice helped. After all, if there's one former La Salle player who knows how to win a war in the UAAP, it's Captain Hook. With his competitiveness and moxie, nothing fazed Cardona during his time with the Green Archers. Plus, his similarity with Quiambao is hard to ignore. He was also a Rookie of the Year, a Mythical Five member, a Finals MVP, and a champion.
The in-your-face guard also translated his college success to the PBA, winning a championship, a Finals MVP, and a Best Player of the Conference nod.
Maybe Quiambao and Cardona can build a trophy cabinet together.
(With reports from Kiko Demigillo, One Sports)