LAST HURRAH: Blatche to make final stand for Strong Group

Former Gilas Pilipinas player Andray Blatche wants to close out his career with a bang as he revs up for what could be his last competition.

Blatche is suiting up with Strong Group Athletics (SGA) in the 34th Dubai International Basketball Championship and the National Basketball Association (NBA) veteran has vowed to give his all.

The Dubai tilt will take place from 24 January to 2 February.

“I think this tournament might be my last tournament. So, of course, I want to go out with a bang and go out there and win a championship,” said Blatche, who was at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium during Converge’s game with TNT in the Philippine Basketball Association Commissioner’s Cup last Saturday.

“I mean, I’m getting to the age where it’s almost over at this point. This might be my last show this year, actually.”

Blatche has a score to settle in the Dubai tilt after losing to Al Riyadi of Lebanon in the final last year despite fielding a stacked roster that included Andre Roberson and Dwight Howard.

Blatche also wants to give the Filipinos a trophy after falling short of the title their campaign during the 2015 FIBA Asia Championships in Changsha, China.

SGA head coach Charles Tiu told DAILY TRIBUNE that they are all united in redeeming themselves from last year’s campaign.

“Well he loves representing the Philippines. I think he can still play,” Tiu said.

Also lending a hand to SGA’s bid is four-time NBA All-Star DeMarcus Cousins.

“He had a bad taste in his mouth last season after losing and getting hurt. He’s a winner so would be nice to send him off with a win.”

The Philippines will be sending two teams for the Dubai championships this year.

Apart from SGA, the Zamboanga Valientes are also competing in this prestigious club tournament.

The Valientes are set to be bannered by University of the Philippines Season 85 Most Valuable Player Malick Diouf of University with University of Santo Tomas guard Forthsky Padrigao reported to suit up as well.

Zamboanga’s core could compose of natives such as Mike Tolomia, Rudy Lingganay, Denver Cadiz and Job Alcantara.