After turning heads at the 33rd Dubai International Basketball Championship, Kevin Quiambao, the De La Salle Green Archer, is catching the eye of basketball enthusiasts in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
UAE Basketball Association officials are so intrigued by Kevin’s performance that they’re contemplating naturalizing him for their national team.
In an interview with Tiebreaker Times, Kevin shared the surprising offer: “Nung kinausap nila ako at sinabi nila na gusto nila ako i-naturalize, siyempre hindi ako nakasalita.”
“Hindi ko alam yung mararamdaman ko nun. Na-amaze ako at siyempre, na-overwhelm kasi ibang usapan na ito e. Hindi lang ito about playing sa club level. National team na ang usapan dito,” he added.
Kevin’s outstanding display of Strong Group Athletics in the ongoing tournament has fueled the interest. Averaging 18.67 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game, he’s become a rising star in the UAE basketball scene
And despite having played for the Gilas Pilipinas for a few games, Kevin admitted he’s keeping an open mind about the offer. “I’ll listen to it. Siyempre, nakakahiya naman if di ko sila pakinggan ‘di ba?” he said. “If maganda yung plans nila for their national team, I’ll heavily consider it,” he added.Tara na't magkaisa! 🇵🇭🏀
— Strong Group Athletics (@stronggroupathl) January 19, 2024
Abangan ang Strong Group Athletics-Philippines sa Al-Nasr Stadium.
Makakalaban natin ang mga pinakamahuhasay na koponan sa Gitnang Silangan.
Samahan niyo kami sa laban, it's time to show our Filipino spirit! #StrongerTogether #DubaiBasketball 🔵⚫️ pic.twitter.com/tyTPnLTClH
