Strong Group Athletics began its campaign on a high note with a 99-91 win over the United Arab Emirates (UAE) national team at the 34th Dubai International Basketball Championship at the Al Nasr Club Saturday (Manila time).

Former San Miguel Beer import Chris McCullough led Strong Group with 28 points and six rebounds while DeMarcus Cousins had 24 points.

Demarco Dickerson had 25 points and six rebounds in a losing effort for UAE.

Strong Group will face home bet Al Nasr on Sunday at 1 a.m. (Manila time) at the same venue.