The Strong Group Athletics (SGA) kicked off its campaign in the 33rd Dubai International Basketball Championship on a positive note, overpowering the United Arab Emirates (UAE) national team on their home turf for an 82-66 win early Saturday morning (PHL time).
Former Oklahoma City Thunder forward Andre Roberson starred for Strong Group with 15 points, 16 rebounds, three assists, and three blocks off the bench. Former Los Angeles Lakers champion Dwight Howard, meanwhile, added 14 points, six rebounds, and two steals.
De La Salle Green Archers star Kevin Quiambao also had a solid outing, finishing with 13 points, three rebounds, and three assists in a starting role. Dabawenyo Francis Escandor scored two points off a steal for a fastbreak in the third quarter. He also had a nice dish and a rebound.
The two teams were neck-and-neck after the first quarter, tied at 22-22 all.
SGA then slowly distanced themselves from UAE after a strong finish to end the second quarter. The Philippine squad led 46-40 at the half.
Strong Group carried that momentum come the third quarter, limiting UAE to just nine points to help build a double-digit lead that would go as high as 21.
Up next for Strong Group will be Syria’s Al Wahda later tonight, January 20, at 9:15 p.m. (PHL time).
