Carl Tamayo excited to learn from Ryukyu veteran guard Ryuichi Kishimoto

Carl Tamayo during his introductory press conference with the Ryukyu Golden Kings. Photo from Ryukyu Golden Kings

MANILA, Philippines — Carl Tamayo is excited to play with veteran guard Ryuichi Kishimoto and former PBA import Allen Durham as he beefs up the Ryukyu Golden Kings in the 2022-23 B.League season.

One of the things that the 6-foot-7 Filipino forward is looking forward to is learning from Kishimoto in his first professional stint.

“I’m very excited to play with the team. Not just one player, but to play with each other. But seeing Kishimoto, the way he thinks [in] the game, the way he plays the game, I think the maturity that he has, the experience, I think I’m very excited to learn a lot from him,” said Tamayo during his introductory press conference on Thursday.

Besides Kishimoto, the former University of the Philippines star is also raring to play alongside the three-time PBA Best Import Durham, who is currently in the Philippines, watching Meralco’s game against TNT on Friday.

“Allen Durham, those guys are older than me, for sure they have more experience than me, I think they will help me to improve,” said Tamayo. “I’m very excited to help the team.”

The 22-year-old Gilas Pilipinas player arrived in Japan on Wednesday and received a warm welcome from his team and the fans in Okinawa. 

“When I came to the arena the first time yesterday [Wednesday]. I saw the Kings fans they are very supportive, they give a lot of energy to the players to perform well for the fans,” Tamayo said. “I see the system is all about team game and it’s very nice to watch the game like that. And I’m here to learn a lot of stuff. Especially yesterday when I saw the game, I think I have a lot of things to learn that I will learn from our head coach.”

Tamayo is honored to be part of Ryukyu in his first international and professional stint, promising to keep improving and give his all every game.

“Every time I step on the court I’ll do my best to help the team to win games. I’ll do whatever it takes to help and contribute to the team,” Tamayo said. “Please keep supporting the team every game because you’re [fans] big factor for the players giving us energy to the game, motivating us to work harder, and getting the win because of the fans.”

The two-time UAAP Mythical team member is set to debut for the Golden Kings after the Fiba break as they try to extend their six-game winning streak and improve their 29-9 record.

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