The PH-based squad is in unfamiliar territory after experiencing defeat.
It might have not been the perfect ending to their group stage matches, but the fight continues for Strong Group Philippines in the 2023 Dubai International Basketball Championship.
Unlike their championship run back in 2020 carrying the Mighty Sports banner, the Philippine-based squad will not enjoy a flawless record in the Dubai tournament this time around. Strong Group suffered its first loss in the tournament as they fell short against Dynamo Lebanon, 89-83.
Coach Charles Tiu admitted that Lebanon’s zone defense slowed his squad down. Dynamo rallied from a 78-81 deficit to seal the victory, thanks to an 11-2 run to the close the game.
Strong Group, which is led by former NBA stars in Shabazz Muhammad, Nick Young, and Renaldo Balkman, had a strong start to the tournament beating teams such as the UAE national team, Libyan team Al Nasr, and Al Wahda from Syria.
But after that tough loss, Strong Group will have to bounce back quick and get ready for their quarterfinals match against the Wael Arakji-led Al Riyadi of Lebanon on Friday.