Strong Group Athletics’ (SGA) redemption plans in the Dubai International Basketball Tournament are in full swing after revealing that four-time National Basketball Association (NBA) All-Star Demarcus Cousins will be reinforcing the team.

Cousins, who gold with the American team in the 2016 Rio Olympics, thanked SGA president Jacob Lao and head coach Charles Tiu for the opportunity to join the squad.

“I’m excited to announce that I’ll be teaming up with Coach Charles Tiu, Jacob Lao and Strong Group Athletics to represent the Philippines in the Dubai International Basketball Tournament. Can’t wait to help bring home SGA’s first-ever Dubai International Basketball Championship,” Cousins said.

“Let’s get to work!”

The 34-year-old center will bring his vast experience in playing in the NBA and overseas.

Cousins played in the NBA for 12 years for the Sacramento Kings, New Orleans Pelicans, Golden State Warriors, Houston Rockets, Los Angeles Clippers, Milwaukee Bucks and Denver Nuggets.

He also showcased his wares for Mets de Guaynabo in Puerto Rico and for the Taiwan Mustangs and the Taiwan Beer Leopards.

Cousins is also no stranger to the Philippines as he was an import for the Zamboanga Valientes in The Asian Tournament where they defeated the Macau Black Bears in the final.

Tiu, who also is the head coach for College of Saint Benilde in the National Collegiate Athletic Association, said he likes the 6-foot-10 center’s enthusiasm as they try to win the competition.

Despite having former NBA stars Andray Blatche, Andre Roberson and Dwight Howard as reinforcements, SGA fell short in the final, 74-77, against Al-Riyadi of Lebanon, led by 2022 FIBA Asia Cup Most Valuable Player Wael Arakji.

“We worked hard to get DeMarcus. I’ve heard great feedback about him, and I’ve spoken to him a couple of times. He’s serious, means business and wants to win,” Tiu said.

“We’ve even been discussing personnel matters already. Kudos and a big thank you to Boss Jacob and Boss Frank for making this possible. I’m excited for us to have another great star on our team!”