Fil-Am Ethan Alvano is the first non-Korean to win KBL MVP
@dbpromy_official
Yet another Filipino athlete has carved out a place in history on the international stage!
Filipino American guard Ethan Alvano clinched the MVP award for the 2023-2024 season of the Korean Basketball League (KBL), making him the first non-Korean player to accomplish this remarkable feat.
Alvano, a 6-foot sophomore player under the Asian Quota Player program, has captivated fans and the entire court with his performances throughout the season.
Hailing from California, the 27-year-old Fil-Am standout showcased his basketball prowess, leading his team with an average of 15.9 points per game alongside a 40.9 percent three-point shooting, 6.6 assists, 3.0 rebounds and 1.5 steals.
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Meanwhile, his team, Wonju DB Promy, led the elimination round with an impressive 41-13 record.
Alvano’s journey to KBL stardom commenced when he joined the league-leading Wonju DB Promy in 2022, following a collegiate career in the United States and a brief stint with San Miguel Alab Pilipinas in the ASEAN Basketball League (ABL).
During his time with Alab, he recorded averages of 7.3 points, 6.1 assists and 4.2 rebounds before transitioning to the KBL, marking him as the fourth Filipino player to make the move.
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His achievement not only highlights his individual excellence but also underscores the growing influence and talent of Filipino imports in the global basketball arena.
In addition, RJ Abarrientos, formerly with Ulsan Hyundai and now part of Japan B. League’s Shinshu, clinched the Rookie of the Year honor, while Rhenz Abando of Anyang emerged victorious in the Slam Dunk Contest during the KBL All-Stars event last year.
The All-KBL team includes Alvano’s teammates Kang Sangjae and Dedric Lawson, who also secured the KBL Import MVP title, along with Suwon’s Paris Bass and Seoul Samsung’s Lee Junghyun
