PHILIPPINE basketball has lost another former standout.
Former PBA star Eugene Quilban passed away last Saturday due to a lingering illness. He was 58.
A former two-time NCAA MVP with San Sebastian College, the 5-foot-7 Quilban was a key cog in the Golden Stags’ title runs in 1988 and 1989. He was a member of the squad that completed a 10-0 sweep of the first and second rounds to emerge as outright champion.
Quilban was tabbed No. 3 overall by Alaska under then coach Tim Cone in 1991 and went on to bag Rookie of the Year honor. He also helped the franchise to its maiden crown in the Third Conference.
Quilban owns the pro league’s record of all-time high in assists with 28 in a 123-100 win by 7-Up over Formula Shell in 1992.
Quilban suited up for a total of eight seasons, with stops with the Uncolas that was later renamed to Pepsi, Pop Cola, and Sta. Lucia.
