The De La Salle Green Archers are expected to rely heavily on star player Kevin Quiambao in their title-retention campaign in the upcoming UAAP Season 87 men’s basketball tournament.

Big man Mike Phillips admitted Quiambao was vital in their championship run last season, and the presence of the reigning and Finals Most Volleyball Player in the lineup this year is enough to fuel their title drive.

“I think it really started with KQ [Kevin Quiambao]. Even though he's that superstar guy, you can see in his play. He had two triple-doubles with assists. He's one of the selfless guys on our team,” said Phillips after UAAP’s press conference Wednesday, Sept. 4.

“Even though he takes those big shots, he really gets his fuel from getting everybody involved. His playmaking ability, how much energy he gets from getting others involved,” he added.

With targets on their backs, Phillips and the rest of the Archers are holding on to their experience together as a team.

The Archers won their 10th title last season at the expense of the University of the Philippines Maroons that went to a deciding Game 3.

Meanwhile, La Salle head coach Topex Robinson is thinking of assigning Quiambao as a floor general following the exit of guards Evan Nelle and Mark Nonoy to the pros.

“Those are two guards we lost and a really integral part in our program, so when KQ decided on staying that’s one of the things he touched upon, sabi nya ‘he wants to try new things’,” said Robinson.

“Kaya sabi ko why not to be a point guard, which sabi nya nga he would love to do and we’ll experiment on that kaya don’t be surprised if you’ll see KQ bring down the ball and setting the play for this season,” he added.

Quiambao had a stellar output last iteration as he averaged 14.7 points, 9.3 rebounds, 2.3 assists and two blocks per game. He also tallied two triple-double stats – a rare feat which broke multiple records.