2020 NBA Champion Dwight Howard powers Strong Group in Dubai.
Strong Group Athletics is putting together quite the group for the Philippine team set to compete in the 33rd Dubai International Basketball Championship.
2020 NBA champion Dwight Howard leads the star-studded cast, with the former three-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year making a stop for a Philippine team following his T1 stint in Taiwan with the Taoyuan Leopards.
“We pursued Dwight because we believe he can provide a significant defensive presence and contribute offensively. Andray Blatche played a crucial role in connecting us, and I'm grateful for the support from our owners Frank and Jacob Lao,” head coach Charles Tiu said.
Speaking of Andray Blatche, the former Gilas Pilipinas center is back. He played in 2020 in Dubai, teaming up with Renaldo Balkman to win the tournament with Mighty Sports.
Andre Roberson, the former Oklahoma City Thunder guard, completes the initial NBA talent on the Strong Group roster.
"Andre Roberson is known to be a workhorse and lock-down defender. I believe he can contribute offensively at this level, and his great team-oriented attitude will make him an excellent fit,” Tiu said.
Other reinforcements for Strong Group include McKenzie Moore, who had separate stops as TNT import in the East Asia Super League and the PBA, and Australia Boomers head coach Brian Goorjian, who will play the role of team consultant.
The 33rd Dubai International Basketball Championship is set from January 19 to 28 at the Al Nasr Club in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.