Mike Phillips has nothing but good words to say about fellow La Salle veteran Kevin Quiambao, as the DLSU Green Archers defend their title in UAAP Season 87.
Count La Salle big man Mike Phillips as one of the biggest supporters and believers of reigning UAAP MVP Kevin Quiambao, as they share the court in a bid to keep the crown with the Green Archers in Season 87.
Left to pick up the pieces after their stunning loss to the UE Red Warriors last weekend, Phillips provided the ample support that Quiambao needed as they rebounded with a strong finish against the FEU Tamaraws to win, 68-62, on Wednesday evening.
After the game, the UAAP champion spoke about his relationship with Quiambao, who also just became a dad after his partner gave birth on Tuesday.
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“Me and KQ have a really strong relationship with each other. I don't know if it's [like being a Kuya], but me and him, he kind of earned my respect early on in the bubble. We know all about his work ethic, but that doesn't really only apply to basketball,” said Phillips.
“That's how we kind of really bonded together, and he also has a strong faith in the Lord. Despite everything that's happening to him, everything he's going through, both good and bad, you see [it] on his Facebook, and even with what he's wearing today, he gives that glory to God.”
Quiambao struggled against the Red Warriors as he missed potential game-tying free throws late in the ball game, which blemished La Salle’s record for the first time this season.
Learning from their mistakes, Phillips was able to take some of the slack from the reigning MVP.
[ALSO READ: UAAP: Topex Robinson says UE loss took pressure off La Salle, leading to rebound vs FEU]
Having been through thick and thin with the Taft cager, Phillips was just happy to be able to get back at Quiambao for all the help that he got through the years of playing together in La Salle.
“For me, I just try to support him any way I can. You see him every time I have a mistake on the court, he's the first one there to pick me back up, and coming from a guy like that means a lot to me. Me and him have really, really bonded together. I'm just enjoying my time with him. Also learning a lot from him as well,” said Phillips.
In their victory over the hapless Tamaraws, Phillips emerged as the top scorer with a monster double-double of 13 points and 12 rebounds. Quiambao was right behind him in points with 12 markers for the talented forward.
As the season goes on, and tougher opponents await the defending champions, Quiambao will need the continuous support from Phillips.
Even as they fill the role of being leaders for the team, it will also do good for the Green Archers to hopefully get more production across the board from the players in the coming games.
La Salle’s next assignment is the revamped UST Growling Tigers on Sunday, September 29, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.