Strong Group seeks to host international tourney

Strong Group Athletics (SGA) is eyeing to host an international tournament following its back-to-back title conquest in the 44th William Jones Cup last week in New Taipei City.

SGA president Jacob Lao said they want to bring the action closer to Filipino fans after seeing their support during their campaign in the prestigious invitational tournament.

SGA won all of its eight games to clinch its second straight Jones Cup title with import Andre Roberson emerging as Most Valuable Player after averaging 12.3 points, 10.7 rebounds, 2.3 assists, 1.4 steals, and 1.3 blocks.

“We want to bring world-class basketball to the Philippines,” Lao, son of distinguished businessman Frank Lao, said in a statement.

“It's about time we bring that kind of action closer to our local basketball community and inspire the younger generation.”

SGA head coach Charles Tiu is also on board as he is already in talks with some teams who want to compete.

“We haven’t figured out what's next, but me, Boss Frank, and Boss Jacob Lao are talking about potentially having an invitational in Manila,” Tiu said.

“I’ve talked to some teams and they’re interested, so let’s see.”

Lao said they are grateful to the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) for allowing them to represent the country in the Jones Cup.

“We’re extremely grateful to the SBP, especially to president Al Panlilio and executive director Erika Dy, for backing our mission. Their trust and guidance have allowed us to bring our vision for Philippine basketball to life on the international stage,” Lao said.