Rhenz Abando and Dave Ildefonso are expected to take on bigger roles for Strong Group in the upcoming 34th Dubai International Basketball Championship.
Rhenz Abando and Dave Ildefonso are set to take on bigger roles as they rejoin Strong Group's roster for the 34th Dubai International Basketball Championship, scheduled from January 24 to February 2, 2025.
Both players, integral to Strong Group's victorious William Jones Cup campaign, now face the challenge of guiding a team that has seen key departures.
“With Kevin Quiambao, JD Cagulangan, and Jordan Heading now in the pros, much is expected from Rhenz and Dave,” said head coach Charles Tiu. “They’ve both proven themselves on big stages before, but this tournament will be a test of their ability to lead and deliver under pressure.”
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Abando, a high-flying forward known for his athleticism and clutch performances, brings experience from playing in high-stakes competitions both locally and abroad.
Meanwhile, Ildefonso, a versatile scorer and playmaker, offers a steady presence on and off the court.
Together, they are expected to anchor the team's campaign in one of the toughest international tournaments in the region.
Abando and Ildefonso last played professional basketball in the Korean Basketball League (KBL) in early 2024.
Since then, Ildefonso was drafted by the NorthPort Batang Pier in the 2024 PBA Draft, but has yet to sign with the team.
Abando, meanwhile, no longer re-signed with Anyang Jung Kwan Jang and has yet to announce his next move.
[ALSO READ: Rhenz Abando grateful for early success in already-decorated basketball career]
As the team gears up for Dubai, Tiu emphasized the importance of leadership in a squad featuring a mix of returning players and new recruits.
“Leadership isn’t just about scoring or making big plays—it’s about inspiring the team and keeping everyone focused,” Tiu added. “This is a great opportunity for Rhenz and Dave to grow into that role.”
Strong Group’s roster also includes other returnees such as Allen Liwag, Tony Ynot, and Justine Sanchez, along with notable additions like Demarcus Cousins and Jason Brickman.
With Abando and Ildefonso adding more firepower, SGA aims to improve on their runner-up finish from last year and reclaim the Dubai title.