For Kevin Quiambao, the numbers and how he performed during Game 2 of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines men’s basketball finals don’t mean much.
Getting the La Salle Green Archers to equalize their best-of-three final series and force a deciding Game 3 are what matter.
The 22-year-old Quiambao said this after he won the Season MVP honors and the Green Archers got past the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons, 82-60, on Sunday to force a do-or-die Game 3 on Wednesday.
“Kahit hindi ko nakuha iyung numbers ko, basta manalo kami. Pero sa Game 3, talagang all-out na ako,” said Quiambao.
The 6’6” Quiambao went 3-of-17 from the field, but still ended up with nine points (way below his average of 16.71), 13 rebounds, and three blocks in Game 2.
Much was expected of Quiambao and sniper Evan Nelle during the finals, but the physicality of the Fighting Maroons’ defense compelled coach Topex Robinson to seek the support of their other teammates.
Nelle also had a bad night with a 2-of-12 clip, but managed to end up with four points, 12 rebounds, 10 assists, and five steals.
“Game 3, talagang all-out na ako, talagang pinaghahandaan ko iyun. Ngayon, pahinga muna ako,” said Quiambao, who is the fifth Green Archer to win the league’s highest individual honor.
With Quiambao focused on controlling the board with Michael Philips, La Salle was able to win the rebounding battle with UP after losing it in Game 1, 45-55.
La Salle hauled 58 boards, including 19 in the offensive end, converting these to 16 second-chance points. UP only got 46 rebounds.
“Game 1 ineffective ako. Nag-step aside ‘yung ego ko and naging off-ball player ako. Sobra akong na overwhelm and excited dahil madami pang work and learnings sa game na ito. Overall, nag-compete kami talaga,” said Quiambao.