With Angelo Kouame unavailable, Strong Group-Pilipinas has turned to another decorated naturalized Filipino, tapping Malick Diouf to complete the its roster for the 45th William Jones Cup set from 14 to 23 August at the Xinzhuang Gymnasium in New Taipei City, Taiwan.

The 6-foot-11 Diouf, a former University Athletic Association of the Philippines regular season and Finals Most Valuable Player, recently became a Filipino citizen, paving the way for him to represent the country in international competition.

Strong Group president Jacob Lao expressed his gratitude to the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas for making Diouf’s inclusion possible.

“We would like to extend our sincere thanks to the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas, especially executive director Erika Dy, for allowing Malick to suit up for Strong Group Athletics in the William Jones Cup,” Lao said.

“It’s an opportunity we truly appreciate, and we promise to represent the Philippines with pride and do everything we can to make the country proud.”

Diouf strengthens an already formidable frontline that features Serbian giant Boban Marjanović, Puerto Rican forward Isaiah Piñeiro, American big man Tajuan Agee, William Navarro, and two-time National Collegiate Athletic Association Most Valuable Player Allen Liwag.

Long-time Strong Group coach Charles Tiu believes Diouf’s arrival gives the squad another dimension.

“Malick gives us even more size, versatility, and athleticism in the frontcourt. He’s a great replacement for Ange, and he raises our ceiling as a team because he can impact the game on both ends of the floor. We’re excited to have him with us,” Tiu said.

Also returning for Strong Group are Dave Ildefonso, DJ Fenner, and Titing Manalili, while Remy Martin and Matthew Wright are set to make their debuts for the club.

Strong Group will be aiming to become the first team to win three consecutive William Jones Cup championships since Iran accomplished the feat from 2009 to 2011.

The Philippine representatives have been drawn into a preliminary-round group with Chinese Taipei Blue, Korea and Japan.