Veteran NBA player Dwight Howard expressed his thanks to the Philippines for providing him with a valuable opportunity to showcase his skills on the international stage with Strong Group Athletics.
While the Strong Group fell just short of reaching their championship objective, Dwight Howard valued the experience with the team, culminating in an admirable second-place finish behind Al Riyadi in the 33rd Dubai International Basketball Championship.
“We came together for two weeks, only had a few practices together, and fought all the way to the championship,” the former NBA three-time Defensive of the Player awardee said.
“Charles Tiu is a great coach and the Philippines is a great country. Thank you all for having me and allowing me to represent your country,” he added, complimenting his coach and the Filipino people.
At 38 years old, Howard, who had previously visited the country, made his debut with a Philippine team with the aim of aiding them in clinching the Dubai championship.
Demonstrating that he is still in prime form, the experienced center averaged 17.4 points and 10.3 rebounds over eight games, concluding with a close 77-74 defeat in the final against the Lebanese team.
Dwight Howard joined forces with UAAP MVP and returning Gilas Pilipinas player Kevin Quiambao from La Salle. The duo formed a formidable partnership that guided Strong Group to an almost flawless championship campaign.
Meanwhile, this represents Strong Group’s second unsuccessful attempt in the Dubai tournament, with their 2023 endeavor also concluding with a disappointing quarter final elimination, despite the presence of former NBA players Nick Young and Shabazz Muhammad.
The Philippines’ most recent victory in the annual pocket tournament was in 2020, with players such as Renaldo Balkman and current Strong Group member Andray Blatche leading the way under the Mighty Sports banner.
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