Kevin Quiambao bags KBL Rookie of the Year Award

A breakout season by Kevin Quiambao has turned what was once a promising overseas stint into a defining chapter—not just for himself, but for Filipino talent making waves in the Korean Basketball League.

Taking center stage at the end of the regular season, Quiambao emerged as the league’s Rookie of the Year after anchoring Goyang Sono’s historic push into the playoffs. The versatile forward didn’t just contribute—he dictated the tempo for the Skygunners, averaging 15.2 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 4.1 assists while leading all rookies across the board in production.

More importantly, his presence translated to wins. Goyang Sono finished with a 28–26 record, clinching the fifth seed and a franchise-first postseason berth. Standing in their way is a tough test against the Seoul SK Knights in a best-of-three quarterfinal showdown.

Quiambao’s seamless transition to the pro ranks comes as no surprise to those who followed his decorated run in the UAAP. A two-time MVP, Season 86 Finals MVP, and Season 85 Rookie of the Year, he built his reputation on versatility—and has now proven that his all-around game travels well beyond Philippine shores.

“It is an honor to receive the Rookie of the Year award,” Quiambao said in his acceptance speech. “I am grateful not only to the club officials but also to the fans in Korea and the Philippines.”

His accolade came alongside another major individual recognition, with Lee Junghyun taking home the league’s Domestic MVP honors, highlighting a season defined by emerging stars and high-level performances.

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SPOTLIGHT AWARD FOR KQ!

Former King Archer Kevin Quiambao emerged as one of the biggest winners of the 2025–26 Korean Basketball League (KBL) season after being named Rookie of the Year, highlighting a historic campaign for Goyang Sono Skygunners. pic.twitter.com/5fcGGmUsKd

— Fastbreak (@fastbreaknewsph) April 9, 2026

But Quiambao wasn’t the only Filipino making noise.

Ethan Alvano continued his stellar run with Wonju DB Promy, earning a place in the KBL Best 5 after putting up 17.7 points, 6.8 assists, and 4.3 rebounds per game. His impact extended beyond the stat sheet, as he also bagged the E-Jong Sports Orthopedic Surgery Play of the Season award—an exclamation point on an already impressive campaign.

Behind Alvano’s leadership, Wonju wrapped up the eliminations with a 33–21 record, securing the fourth seed. They are set to face Busan KCC Egis in another tightly contested best-of-three quarterfinal pairing.

With Quiambao’s rapid ascent and Alvano’s sustained brilliance, the KBL is quickly becoming a proving ground for Filipino players—one where impact is immediate, and the spotlight is well-earned.

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