Davao City pride Francis Escandor wrote on his social media account shortly after the Philippines’ Strong Group Athletics (SGA) lost a heartbreaking championship match against Al Riaydi:
“Blessed to be a part of Strong Group Athletics, Till next time.”
He reposted the One Sports’ Facebook post acknowledging his contribution to the Philippine club.
“WELL PLAYED!
You did well in raising the country’s flag in Dubai, Francis!”
Escandor sizzled in SGA’s second game with a team second best 18 points. He also had moments on defense and showed his deft touch from the perimeter despite the quality of competition in only his first international stint.
The post garnered massive congratulatory comments for the silent but hardworking son of Davao businessman Glenn Escandor.
CHARLES TIU GRATEFUL
Strong Group Athletics (SGA) was only a win short of reclaiming the Dubai International Basketball Championship crown.
After seven straight wins, SGA saw themselves at the opposite end of a buzzer-beating trey after Ismael Abdelmoneim and Al-Riaydi hit a dagger that went through the heart of Charles Tiu, his squad, and the whole Filipino basketball community, early Monday morning, Manila time.
SGA suffers heartbreak against Al Riyadi in Dubai finals
Still, the Benilde Blazers mentor relished their campaign in Dubai and offered no excuses despite their injury-riddled stint.
“Sorry we couldn’t bring home the chip, but we hope we were able to captivate and put on a good show,” wrote Tiu on his X account.
“We fought till the end despite battling injuries, but I guess it wasn’t meant,” he added, pertaining to the lower leg injuries of JD Cagulangan, Andray Blatche, and McKenzie Moore.
He then went on to hail Dwight Howard, Andre Roberson, Moore, Blatche, and the rest of the team.
“Just want to end by thanking Dwight Howard for coming out here to play for our team and represent the Philippines. It was an absolute honor to coach a Hall of Famer and more importantly a great great person. Loved listening to all your stories!” Tiu said of the former Los Angeles Laker big man.
“Another wonderful person, my eating and wine buddy too! He is still an elite basketball player and could definitely play in the league if he wanted to. Absolute menace on the defensive end,” he added of the former OKC Thunder standout.
“McKenzie Moore was a warrior for us and it was a shame he went down, Andray Blatche was also hurt but he tried his best to play through it so we are really grateful for that. Jordan Heading was huge and probably should be considered for Gilas, and KQ was just special!” Tiu added.
He also showed appreciation for the fans’ support, especially their countrymen who were present in the games.
“Just want to thank all the Filipinos in Dubai who constantly came to our games and cheered their hearts out and supported the team. Thank you for all the well wishes!” he continued, while also expressing that they would bounce back next year.
“This is just the beginning for Strong Group Athletics, and there will be more to come!”
