Kevin Quiambao Shows Up Big for Gilas Despite Loss to Chinese Taipei

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by Lou Reyes

Gilas Pilipinas Kevin Quiambao. Photo: FIBA.

Kevin Quiambao didn’t start the game, but he nearly changed its course.

In Gilas Pilipinas’ tough 95-87 loss to Chinese Taipei in their FIBA Asia Cup 2025 opener, Quiambao emerged as one of the few bright spots — proving once again that he’s always ready when his number is called.

The 23-year-old forward didn’t see action in the first half, but when Gilas needed a spark in the second, he stepped in and delivered. With the team trailing by double digits, Quiambao gave the squad much-needed energy, especially in the fourth quarter.

He poured in 13 of his total 17 points in the final frame alone, keeping the Philippines within striking distance. His pull-up jumper in the last minute trimmed the gap to just seven, 90-83, giving Gilas a fighting chance before Chinese Taipei closed the game out.

“I always remind myself to have a stay-ready mentality,” Quiambao said in Filipino after the game. “Coach Tim trusts me, so I need to respond whenever I’m called on.”

In just over 16 minutes of play, Quiambao shot an efficient 6-of-10 from the field while adding four rebounds and two assists. His poise, confidence, and high basketball IQ were on full display, despite the loss.

Chinese Taipei was led by Ying-Chun Chen’s 34-point outburst and the solid all-around play of naturalized player Brandon Gilbeck and the Hinton brothers. Still, Quiambao’s performance gave fans and teammates something to cheer for — and hope for — moving forward.

With their next game against powerhouse New Zealand set for August 7, Quiambao knows that Gilas has to regroup fast. But he believes the biggest challenge isn’t just the opponent — it’s themselves.

“Our mindset should be ‘it’s us vs. us,’” he shared. “We have to overcome this tough stretch and shake off the bad breaks. That’s the only way we can bounce back.”

One thing’s for sure: if Gilas needs heart and hustle, Kevin Quiambao is ready to deliver.