Kevin Quiambao feted as KBL Rookie of the Year

Two-time UAAP MVP Kevin Quiambao maintained stellar form overseas after adding a fresh laurel to his head by being hailed as the 2025-26 Korean Basketball League (KBL) Rookie of the Year award winner at Grand Intercontinental Seoul Parnas in Gangnam-gu on April 9.

Quiambao outclassed all ROTY candidates in scoring, rebounding, and playmaking, averaging 15.8 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 4.0 assists across all 54 games for the Goyang Sono Skygunners.

Goyang’s 6-foot-6 swingman stat line proved beneficial after steering the squad to its maiden KBL playoffs appearance following a 28-26 record to finish at the 5th seed.

The De La Salle University standout displayed Filipino excellence in the global hardcourt, becoming the third-straight Pinoy to receive the plum following RJ Abarrientos and JD Cagulangan.

Preceding his move to take his talents as a professional abroad, Quiambao traced greatness in his homeland after leading La Salle to the Season 86 championship, winning the Finals MVP nod, and being named as a mainstay for the Gilas Pilipinas.

Quiambao will look to lift the Skygunners past the Arvin Tolentino-led Seoul SK Knights in the KBL’s quarterfinals for a chance to face defending champion Changwon LG Sakers and Carl Tamayo.