Kevin Quiambao and Goyang Sono: from long shots to Playoff trailblazers in the KBL

What began as a midseason experiment has turned into one of the most compelling stories in the Korean Basketball League (KBL). When Kevin Quiambao arrived in South Korea, Goyang Sono Skygunners were a struggling squad searching for direction. 

Months later, they are a playoff team—rewriting their franchise history with Quiambao at the center of that transformation.

The Skygunners’ climb to a 28-25 record and fifth place finish isn’t just a statistical leap—it’s a cultural reset. Quiambao, in just his sophomore pro season, has embodied all three, posting averages of 15.2 points, 6.5 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 1.1 steals per game.

“I’m super happy and blessed na makareceive ng ganitong opportunity, especially for me na bago pa lang sa professional basketball. It means a lot to me, pero a lot of work to be done pa,” Quiambao said.

While imports like Nathan Knight and local star Lee Junghyun have delivered consistent scoring, Quiambao’s impact goes beyond numbers. 

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SONO MADE IT. THEY ELIMINATED KT

KEVIN QUIAMBAO ROOKIE OF THE YEAR AND BEST 5

SONO LEE JUNG-HYUN WILL PROBABLY WINS THE MVP#KBL

— 칼타마요#GilasPilipinas (@gilas_mayo) April 5, 2026

He has become the connective piece—capable of initiating offense, defending multiple positions, and stepping up in crucial moments. His all-around game has helped stabilize a team that once struggled to close out tight contests.

If the standings hold, Goyang Sono could face Ethan Alvano and Wonju DB in the quarterfinals—a matchup that adds another layer of intrigue, especially with Filipino talent shining on both sides. But for Quiambao, the postseason isn’t the destination—it’s just the start.

“My goal, siyempre, is to win the championship, pero alam kong madaming pagdadaanan at pagsubok bago makuha ’yon. I just want to cherish this moment and focus on the present, one game at a time,” the former Green Archer star said.

Quiambao’s journey in the KBL was anything but smooth wherein his debut was cut short by an ankle injury just minutes into his first game, delaying his integration into the team’s system.

Instead of derailing his campaign, the setback became a turning point—forcing him to adjust quickly to the physicality and pace of international play.

When he returned, flashes of brilliance followed as Quiambao erupted for a 36-point, 12-rebound performance early in his stint, signaling his ability to dominate at the pro level. He later showcased his versatility with an 18-assist game.

Now, as Goyang Sono prepares for its first-ever playoff appearance, Quiambao stands not just as a contributor, but as a symbol of the team’s reinvention. 

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