Class of his own: Quiambao resets career high as La Salle sweeps Ateneo

Kevin Quiambao delivered a career-high performance for the La Salle Green Archers in their UAAP Season 87 men's basketball game against rival Ateneo Blue Eagles. The reigning MVP scored 33 points, grabbed 13 rebounds, and provided 2 assists, leading La Salle to an 80-65 victory at the Mall of Asia Arena on Saturday, October 26. This win completed La Salle's season sweep of Ateneo and marked their seventh consecutive win.

Quiambao was exceptionally efficient, shooting 10-of-22 from the field, including 5-of-11 from three-point range. He dominated throughout the game, scoring 18 points in the first half and continuing his strong play in the second half to surpass his previous career-high of 29 points. His performance helped La Salle build a lead as large as 18 points (72-54).

Although Ateneo threatened a comeback in the fourth quarter with a 10-1 run, capped by a Sean Quitevis three-pointer that cut the deficit to 64-73 with 3:30 remaining, Quiambao responded decisively. He restored order with a two-handed slam dunk off an assist from Mike Phillips, sparking a 7-1 run that sealed the win for La Salle.

La Salle head coach Topex Robinson emphasized the significance of the rivalry, stating that games against Ateneo are always highly valued and hard-fought, requiring composure against a team with a strong winning tradition. Mike Phillips contributed 4 points and 13 rebounds. With this win, La Salle, the first team to secure a Final Four berth, improved their record to 10-1 and achieved their first season sweep of Ateneo since 2013 (Season 76). Despite the victory, Quiambao remarked, "It’s a good win for us pero malayo pa kami sa gusto naming mapuntahan (but we’re still far from where we want to be)."