Kevin Quiambao gets another chance to showcase his wares for Gilas Pilipinas. –FIBA BASKETBALL
MANILA, Philippines—La Salle big man Kevin Quiambao has been called up by the Gilas Pilipinas for the fourth window of the Fiba World Cup Asian qualifiers and he is excited not just to play, but to learn.
Quiambao will get a chance to team up with Kai Sotto and Fil-American NBA player Jordan Clarkson in the upcoming window.
“I’m very excited ‘cause they [Kai and Jordan] are elite level players. They’ll give good leadership because they play a high level of basketball. For me, I’m very happy to be with them. It’s a once in a lifetime experience so I won’t let it slip,” the said 6-foot-4 big said after La Salle’s 89-74 win in the PBA D-League.
Quiambao, a versatile forward, will be joined by Sotto, Carl Tamayo, Ray Parks and Dwight Ramos in the 3-4-5 positions, which may pose some rotational problems for Gilas head coach Chot Reyes.
But the young player is willing to play whatever role Reyes gives him.
“I know I just need to do my role and find myself where I’d fit. I’m neutral with whatever coach will give me. Whatever needs to be done, I’ll do,” he said.
The Gilas cadet finished with 18 points, six rebounds and four blocks in Friday’s win that put La Salle closer to a finals berth.
Quiambao, who will play as a rookie for La Salle in the upcoming Season 85, was suited up for Gilas Pilipinas for first time for the third window of the Fiba World Cup 2023 Asian Qualifiers in July.
Quimbao is aware that playing for the country will have its fair share of ups and downs, including issues with the rotations and minutes.
However, Quiambao knows his work ethic will help him move forward.
“Im happy to be part of this. A lot of players are also deserving to be part [of Gilas] but I believe I deserve it more because of my hard work.“