MANILA, Philippines — For the second time this UAAP Season 87 men’s basketball tournament, Kevin Quiambao established a new career-high of 33 points as defending champ De La Salle defeated Ateneo de Manila, 80-65, at the Mall of Asia Arena on Saturday, October 26.
The reigning MVP topped his previous best of 29 points which he established in the Green Archers’ 94-87 overtime triumph over the UST Growling Tigers 10 days earlier at the same venue.
“Coach [Topex Robinson] told me to go ball hog so that’s what I did. I just followed his command,” Quiambao, who shot 10-of-22 from the field including 5-of-11 from deep, said in jest.
On a serious note, Quiambao, whose La Salle team rose to a league-best 10-1 slate, is not yet satisfied with his performance.
Asked about what he still lacks or needs to work on his game, Quiambao said he’s all about setting the standards high for the Green Archers if he’s not doing that already.
“For me as a leader, I need to set a culture of setting the bar high here. I was blessed to have an opportunity to be the leader of his team so I’m taking advantage of that,” he said.
“It’s a privilege to play for a big school like La Salle. Opportunities like this one don’t come frequently, only a few people could get to don this [La Salle] jersey. That’s why I’m giving my best.”
Quiambao and the Green Archers won’t play until November 6 when they face the FEU Tamaraws at the Mall of Asia Arena.
A first time father to a baby boy, Quiambao welcomes the lengthy break ahead as he finally has ample time to take care of his kid.
“Finally, I got a chance to take care of my kid, that’s all I can say. This break will be an opportunity for me to bond with my family more. It’s a long season so we need to check on our family and loved ones,” said Quiambao.
“This break is also crucial since we have an SNC (strength and conditioning) program with coach Migs and coach Gelo who haven’t neglected us since day one. We will take a break and move on to the next game even though it’s still far ahead.”
