UAAP: Kevin Quiambao says La Salle system key to his first triple double

La Salle star Kevin Quiambao in the UAAP Season 86 men’s basketball tournament. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines — Kevin Quiambao credited his first career triple-double to La Salle’s system and his teammates’ help as he continues to dominate in the UAAP men’s basketball tournament.

Quiambao became the first player to tally a triple-double in five years as he dropped 17 points, 11 rebounds, and 14 assists–a UAAP record–to lead La Salle past National University, 88-78, for its third straight win.

“My assists came from the flow of our system. I’m happy to surpass the last triple-double five years ago and make my own name,” said Quiambao, a frontrunner for the the MVP race after the first round.

“But again, I won’t have 14 assists if my teammate wouldn’t make their shots. I’m thankful to my teammates. We fought hard and had a good flow of offense today.”

He is the first player to finish with a triple-double after CJ Cansino did it in his rookie year with the University of Santo Tomas on October 28, 2018.

Quiambao’s historic game led to the Green Archers’ balanced attack from Jonnel Policarpio, Evan Nelle, and Mark Nonoy.

The 6-foot-8 forward said his teammates are part of his motivation.

“[My inspiration] is the Lord and my family as well as my teammates because some of them came from the province and States. I  wanted to repay their trust. And lastly, our coaching staff for trusting me and allowing me us to play our game,” he said.

La Salle assistant coach Gian Nazario said Quiambao’s numbers are a product of his extra work during training.

“I think it’s the work that Kevin puts in. I’m sure that coach Topex [Robinson] mentioned to you during our game, even pregame and post-game, Kevin works out. The trust that he has with his teammates and the trust that his teammates have,” Nazario said. 

“You can’t measure his dedication in practice. We’re not surprised during the game so the credit really goes to him because of the work that he puts in.”

Quiambao, who is in his best shape, said his pre-game and post-game workouts are still part of La Salle’s program for him.

“It transitions to the games because, on the mental aspect, I feel stronger because of my workout. I enjoy working out and sometimes I don’t realize that I overwork sometimes,” Quiambao said. “Good thing I am able to apply it inside the court as seen with my minutes.”

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