Strong Group Athletics head coach Charles Tiu has nothing but praise for his team despite falling short of winning the crown in the 33rd Dubai International Basketball Tournament in the United Arab Emirates.

Tiu told DAILY TRIBUNE that the 74-77 loss against defending champion Al Riyadi of Lebanon in the final could have gone either way.

In its second year of participating in the tournament, Strong Group's silver medal is its best finish so far.

"Proud of the way we fought against a great team and perennial champions. They've been together for years while we are a new team," Tiu said as most members of the team came home last Monday.

"A lot of what ifs but that's basketball. We had a chance to win it but it just didn't go our way."

Backed by National Basketball Association veterans Andre Roberson, Dwight Howard, Andray Blatche and former TNT Tropang Giga import McKenzie Moore, the Filipino team finished the tournament with a 7-1 win-loss record.

One of the biggest revelations in the tournament was reigning University Athletic Association of the Philippines Most Valuable Player Kevin Quiambao, who made waves in the Middle East as he got offers from a basketball club there and a chance t play for the United Arab Emirates national team.

Jordan Heading also made his presence felt for Strong Group, especially in the team's 91-89 win over Al Ahli Tripoli of Libya where he scored 19 points.

"Well basketball is a team game, everybody will get their chances and opportunities. Jordan and Kevin played great and made the most out of it. Really impressed with both those players," Tiu said.