SACRAMENTO, CA—Filipino basketball sensation Kevin “KQ” Quiambao officially began pursuit of his NBA dream, arriving in Sacramento, California, on Thursday, July 3 (Manila time).
The 24-year-old forward, a former star for the La Salle Green Archers in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines, is set to participate in training camps with the aim of impressing scouts and securing a spot in the upcoming NBA Summer League, and hopefully make it to the league.
Quiambao, a prominent player for the Goyang Sono Skygunners in the Korean Basketball League, confirmed his arrival via a social media post, sharing a photo with the caption, “Sactown babyyyy.”
His presence in Sacramento is particularly noteworthy as he is expected to connect with PBA legend and former Gilas Pilipinas star Jimmy Alapag, who currently serves as an assistant coach for the Sacramento Kings.
This connection could provide Quiambao with valuable mentorship as he navigates the highly competitive environment.
The NBA Summer League is scheduled to run from July 10 to 20.
In his inaugural KBL season, the two-time UAAP Most Valuable Player demonstrated his all-around capabilities, averaging 16.9 points, 6.3 rebounds, 3.9 assists, and 1.3 steals across 23 contests for the Goyang Sono Skygunners, who finished eighth in the league with a 19-35 record.
Once done with the Summer League, the 6’7” Quiambao will be back to Goyang, where he has a three-year contract.
He recently signed a fresh three-year extension with Goyang.
But Quiambao had limited time with Goyang due to a right ankle injury.
Quiambao is officially eligible to be signed by any NBA team right now.
According to NBA rules, international players aged 22 or above automatically qualify for the draft as unrestricted free agents.
No full-blooded Filipino has ever made it to the NBA.
Gilas Pilipinas’ 7’3” standout Kai Sotto, who entered the 2022 NBA Draft, was never selected. He made it to the NBA Summer League team of the Orlando Magic, but barely played.