The whispers are turning into a roar, igniting a new wave of intrigue across the NBA. Filipino basketball phenom Kevin Quiambao, fresh off a rollercoaster experience with the Sacramento Kings, is reportedly the subject of a secret pursuit by five NBA teams, with the Golden State Warriors emerging as the frontrunner to secure his talents. This development comes after a perceived “dupe” by the Kings, leaving Quiambao unexpectedly off their Summer League roster and, crucially, not officially in the NBA, despite significant attention and workouts.
As of mid-July 2025, Kevin Quiambao, a 6-foot-6 versatile forward, has been actively pursuing his NBA dream in the United States. He notably worked out with the Sacramento Kings and, for a period, there were widespread rumors and even some misreported “news flashes” in Filipino media that he had signed a deal with the Kings or was a lock for their Summer League roster. This excitement was amplified by the presence of Filipino basketball legend Jimmy Alapag on the Kings’ Summer League coaching staff.
However, the reality, as confirmed by official NBA Summer League rosters and reputable reports, is that Kevin Quiambao was ultimately left off the Sacramento Kings’ 2025 NBA 2K26 Summer League roster. The Kings opted to feature their 2025 NBA Draft selections and other G-League champions. While Quiambao did indeed work out for them and drew interest, the lack of an official spot in Summer League, let alone a contract, left many Filipino fans and Quiambao himself in a state of disappointment – hence the feeling of being “duped” or let down after high expectations. Quiambao is currently under a three-year extension with the Goyang Sono Skygunners in the Korean Basketball League (KBL), which he signed in early June 2025, indicating his return to Korea if an NBA opportunity doesn’t materialize immediately.
Despite the Kings’ decision, reports from reliable sources, including Gilas Pilipinas head coach Tim Cone, indicate that Kevin Quiambao’s journey in the US is far from over. Coach Cone revealed that Quiambao had workouts scheduled with five other NBA teams after the Kings’ Summer League roster was announced. The identities of these teams were not publicly disclosed, adding to the “secret” nature of their pursuit.
This “secret pursuit” suggests that while the Kings may have passed for Summer League, other NBA front offices recognize Quiambao’s potential and are keen to evaluate him further for a possible Exhibit 10 contract, a two-way deal, or even a regular roster spot. This interest is driven by several factors:
- Versatility: Quiambao is a “do-it-all” forward, capable of scoring, rebounding, passing, and defending. His all-around game, showcased in the KBL (averaging 16.9 points, 6.3 rebounds, 3.9 assists, and 1.3 steals in his rookie year), makes him an intriguing prospect.
- Size for Position: At 6-foot-6, he possesses good size for a wing or a small-ball four, fitting the modern NBA’s emphasis on positionless basketball.
- Basketball IQ and Feel for the Game: Scouts are often drawn to players who demonstrate high basketball IQ, make smart decisions, and have a good feel for the game, all of which Quiambao reportedly possesses.
- International Experience: Playing professionally in the KBL, a competitive international league, provides a different level of experience than college basketball, showcasing his adaptability to a professional environment.
- Undrafted Gem Potential: Teams are always looking for undrafted players who can be developed into valuable contributors, offering significant value given their lower cost.
The notion that the Golden State Warriors hold the “greatest advantage” in this secret pursuit is particularly intriguing and aligns with several strategic factors specific to the Bay Area franchise:
- System Fit (Pace and Space, Movement, Passing): The Warriors’ offensive system, predicated on constant off-ball movement, precise passing, and three-point shooting, is a natural fit for a versatile, high-IQ player like Quiambao. He thrives in a free-flowing offense where his passing vision and cutting ability can be utilized. He’s not a static player; he’s constantly active, which aligns perfectly with the “Warrior Way.”
- Player Development Track Record: The Warriors have an exceptional track record of developing international players and undrafted talents. They’ve invested heavily in their G-League affiliate, the Santa Cruz Warriors, and have successfully turned prospects like Kevon Looney (a former first-round pick who overcame injuries) and Gary Payton II (an undrafted player) into key contributors. Their player development staff is renowned for maximizing potential.
- Need for Versatile Wings/Forwards: Even with their recent moves and veteran additions, the Warriors are always looking for versatile wings and forwards who can defend multiple positions, contribute on offense without dominating the ball, and fit seamlessly into their system. Quiambao’s “do-it-all” nature makes him an ideal candidate to fill various roles off the bench.
- Veteran Leadership for Young Players: Playing alongside future Hall of Famers like Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and now Jimmy Butler, would provide an unparalleled learning environment for a young player like Quiambao. He could absorb their championship habits and learn the intricacies of winning at the highest level.
- Salary Cap Flexibility (for Minimum/Two-Way Deals): Given the Warriors’ significant salary commitments to their core players (Curry, Butler, Green) and being deep in the luxury tax, they primarily have access to minimum contracts and two-way spots for filling out their roster. This is precisely the kind of opportunity an undrafted player like Quiambao would be seeking. The Warriors are accustomed to finding value in players willing to sign these types of deals. For the 2025-26 season, the Warriors’ guaranteed contracts and cap holds place them well over the luxury tax and first apron, meaning they rely heavily on minimum contracts and their draft picks to fill out the roster.
- Exposure and Global Brand: Joining the Warriors, one of the most popular and globally recognized franchises in the NBA, would provide Quiambao with immense exposure, especially given the large Filipino fanbase in the Bay Area and around the world. This would be invaluable for his personal brand and future career.
If the Warriors are indeed leading the pursuit, the most likely path for Quiambao would be:
- Exhibit 10 Contract: This would allow him to attend training camp with the Warriors. If he’s waived before the season, he could receive a bonus if he joins their G-League affiliate, Santa Cruz.
- Two-Way Contract: This would allow him to split time between the Warriors and the Santa Cruz Warriors, gaining valuable NBA-level coaching and experience while playing significant minutes in the G-League. The Warriors typically have a few two-way spots available.
- Standard NBA Minimum Contract: If he truly impresses, he could earn a spot on the main 15-man roster on a minimum deal.
The situation with Kevin Quiambao and the Sacramento Kings was a disappointing moment for many, but it appears to have opened new doors. The “secret pursuit” by five NBA teams, with the Golden State Warriors reportedly holding the advantage, suggests that Quiambao’s NBA dream is very much alive. For the Warriors, it represents another potential savvy move to unearth a hidden gem who could flourish in their unique system, adding versatile talent to their championship aspirations. The basketball world will be watching closely to see if Quiambao can turn this new opportunity into a permanent place on an NBA roster.
