Kevin Quiambao Korea-bound to ‘pursue NBA dream’
Kevin Quiambao is headed to the Korean Basketball League.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines — Less than 24 hours after a heartbreaking UAAP Finals loss to University of the Philippines, Kevin Quiambao on Monday announced he is headed to the Korean Basketball League with the Goyang Sono SkyGunners with hopes of making the NBA.
Quiambao bid farewell to his beloved La Salle, which failed to defend its title following a 66-62 loss in front of a record-breaking 25,248 fans on Sunday at Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Article continues after this advertisement“My college career comes to an end, I will pursue my NBA dream and start my journey by playing professional ball in Goyang Sono SkyGunners and developing my game even more,” wrote Quiambao on social media.
READ: After UAAP Finals heartbreak, Kevin Quiambao mum on future
The two-time UAAP MVP attributed his stellar three-season collegiate career to his family coaches, teammates, and the whole La Salle community for honing him to become a “King Archer.”
“Thank you for three wonderful seasons, a lot of sweat, tears, and sacrifices. Thank you for making me a great student-athlete,” he said. “Coach Topex (Robinson) and Coach Migs Aytona, I love you, and thank you for unlocking and unleashing KQ.”
Article continues after this advertisement“To my teammates and the whole coaching staff and management, I can’t thank you enough for your unwavering support. Thank you for believing in me and pushing me to reach my potential. I am so grateful and blessed to have you guys,” he added.
Quiambao will be boosting the Skygunners, who are currently in last place with a 5-13 record.
READ: UAAP: Kevin Quiambao hailed MVP anew as La Salle title bid hangs
He will join former UAAP rivals and Gilas Pilipinas teammates Carl Tamayo and SJ Belangel in the KBL.
The 23-year-old Quiambao took the blame for La Salle’s Game 3 loss, where he was limited to just 13 points and four rebounds.
Despite failing to lead the Green Archers to back-to-back championships, Quiambao had a hell of a collegiate career with two season MVPs, a Season 86 championship and Finals MVP trophy, a pair of Mythical Team selections, the Season 85 Rookie of the Year, two triple-doubles last year, and a 3×3 title.
La Salle may have lost Quiambao but the Archers remain a force to reckon with next year with the addition of blue-chip transferees Kean Baclaan, Jacob Cortez, Mason Amos, and Luis Pablo. Mike Phillips also vowed to return for another season.
