Gilas Pilipinas’ Kevin Quiambao against Hong Kong in the second window of the Fiba Asia Cup Qualifiers.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines—Despite riding the bench in Gilas Pilipinas’ historic win over New Zealand on Thursday, Kevin Quiambao never felt discouraged and stayed patient instead.

Quiambao waited for an opportunity to prove himself and made the most out of it on Sunday.

“We got that historic win and as a new guy here in Gilas, I accept my role,” said Quiambao. “It’s really just my passion so I have to be ready when the opportunity comes.”

Quiambao had his chance and made it count helping Gilas demolish Hong Kong, 93-54, in the second window of the Fiba Asia Cup Qualifiers at Mall of Asia Arena.

“The opportunity came in this game. I moved on and told myself that was still able to help the team in that New Zealand game even though I didn’t get minutes,” said the UAAP MVP.

Quiambao played 22 minutes against Hong Kong and finished with an all-around game of eight points, five rebounds and four assists.

“Coach LA Tenorio talked to me when I didn’t play against New Zealand. He reminded me to stay ready and I just stayed professional. Basketball is basketball, [it’s] nothing personal. For me, I just stayed ready so I’m thankful,” said Quiambao.

“He told me that the opportunity will come. You may not know when, but it’ll come,” he added.

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