Williams focused on Strong stint

Mikey Williams is not letting distractions get in the way as he powers Strong Group Athletics to the 34th Dubai International Basketball Championship starting Friday.

The prized Filipino-American playmaker admitted that he is putting everything on the back burner, including his possible return to the TNT Tropang Giga in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA).

After a controversial contract dispute, the 33-year-old Williams and the Tropang Giga are not seeing eye to eye.

He left for the United States and missed the Governors’ Cup last year, forcing the Tropang Giga to terminate contractual negotiations with him. TNT, however, still retained his rights, which means that he has to seek its blessings if he wants to join another PBA team.

Williams said he wants to return to the PBA, but at this point, his main concern is how to help Strong Group regain the crown in the prestigious inter-club tournament.

“I’ve been focused on this Dubai tournament and I’ve been practicing here. It’s the only thing on my mind right now,” said Williams, who is set to fly to Dubai on Thursday.

“What comes after, we’ll see.”

Williams will not be alone in his title quest with Strong Group.

Joining him is a powerhouse cast bannered by National Basketball Association veterans Malachi Richardson and Andray Blatche as well as the local crew of Rhenz Abando, Dave Ildefonso, Chris Koon, Jason Brickman, Ange Kouame, Liwag, Tony Ynot, Justine Sanchez, and National Collegiate Athletic Association Most Valuable Player Allen Liwag.

Their center of attraction will be DeMarcus Cousins – four-time NBA All-Star.

Williams is making up for lost time after turning down the offer to play for Strong Group last year.

Although he and Strong Group head coach Charles Tiu joined forces in the 2020 edition of the Dubai tilt when they were in Might Sports, he still declined a chance to play for him due to his contractual issues with his PBA club.

To stay sharp, Williams was playing in local leagues such as the Drew League.

“Played in the Drew League a little bit. During the summer, that’s the only place to play because all the pros are going to be there,” Williams said.

“It’s great basketball, great IQs, great level of basketball, period. That’s just summer, everybody playing around, trying to get better.”