For Kevin Quiambao, Thursday's Korea-Philippines exhibition game presents an unusual dilemma.

On one side is his homeland. On the other is Lee Jung-hyun, the star guard he'll share the court with this season for the Goyang Sono Skygunners.

Asked who he would be rooting for, Quiambao didn't hesitate.

"Korean fans might not like my answer," he said with a laugh. "But this time, I'll be cheering for the Philippines."

Quiambao is currently in Saga, Japan, participating in Sono's training camp instead of joining the Philippine national team for the 2026 Asian Games.

Because the Asian Games are not organized by FIBA, clubs are not obligated to release players. Quiambao also believed staying with Sono would better prepare him for upcoming KBL season and help accelerate his adjustment to his new team.

That decision came despite his growing role with Gilas Pilipinas.

Last week, the 25-year-old forward knocked down the game-winning three-pointer in the Philippines' victory over Jordan during the window-4 of the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup Asian Qualifiers.

FIBA has also identified Quiambao as one of the faces of the Philippines' next generation, alongside Changwon LG forward Carl Tamayo and former Seoul SK guard Juan Gomez de Liaño.

Philippines head coach Tim Cone praised Quiambao's rapid development in a recent interview with FIBA.

"He's developed much faster than we expected," Cone said. "Over the last year and a half to two years, he's improved consistently and is playing at a much higher level than when he first joined the national team."

Quiambao, however, was quick to downplay his heroics against Jordan.

"I was happy the shot went in, but that's not enough to satisfy me," he said after Wednesday's practice. "As a team, we still need to execute our game plan better for all 40 minutes and play more complete basketball."

He also viewed his expanded role with the national team as something that had to be earned.

"I'm grateful to be getting more minutes, but that's because I've continued to work hard and stay prepared," Quiambao said. "Whether I play 30 seconds or 30 minutes, if I'm given an opportunity, I'll give everything I have on the court."

Thursday's exhibition at KT Sonicboom Arena in Suwon will serve as one of Korea's final tune-ups before the Asian Games.

Although the Philippines left several overseas-based players off its roster, it still features many of the PBA's top talents, including former KBL Rookie of the Year RJ Abarrientos. The Philippines also enters as the defending Asian Games champion after capturing its first gold medal in 61 years at the 2022 Hangzhou Games.

Even so, Quiambao made it clear that his support for the Philippines does not diminish his respect for Korea.

"The players selected for the national team are among the most talented in our country," he said. "That doesn't mean I don't respect Korea. I simply believe the Philippines has a team that's capable of competing with anyone."

Quiambao is especially looking forward to watching Lee Jung-hyun battle the Philippines' experienced backcourt.

"Lee is a tremendous player," he said. "He understands how to play at a high level."

Then he smiled before adding one more prediction.

"But I think our PBA guards will make things as difficult as possible for him."

No matter the outcome, Quiambao expects an entertaining contest.

"I think it's going to be a great game," he said. "I just hope both teams play well."

Written by Hong Seong-han | Photos by Hong Seong-han and FIBA
Translation reviewed with the assistance of AI.

 

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