Strong Group falls to Lebanon to end win streak in Dubai tourney

The Philippines' Strong Group failed to keep its unblemished record intact after falling to Dynamo of Lebanon, 89-83, in the 32nd Dubai International Basketball Championship on early Thursday at the Al Nasr Club in Dubai.

Strong Group, who was previously unbeaten in three games after having won over Al Wahda of Syria, UAE National Team, and Al Nasr of Libya, dropped to 3-1 while Lebanon remained immaculate at 4-0.

Shabazz Muhammad was consistent for the Philippine bet, finishing with a team-high 25 points to go along with nine rebounds, three assists, one steal, and one block while Adamson guard Jerom Lastimosa churned out 14 markers off the bench.

Nick Young provided some boost with his 11 points and two rebounds as Renaldo Balkman and Sedrick Barefield each chipped in 10 and nine markers in the losing effort. Clinton Robert led Dynamo with 29 points, eight rebounds, and four assists while Zachary Lofton and Thomas ibrahima listed 17 and 16 each.

"It was a tough loss, led 60 percent of the game but fell short in the last few minutes," said Strong Group head coach Charles Tiu.

Despite the loss, Strong will move on to the playoff round where it will face  Al Riyadi on Friday morning (Manila time).

Al Riyadi, who finished third in Group B with 2-1 card, is bannered by several national team players led by Wael Arakji, Amir Saoud, Hayk Gyokchan, and import and former NBA second round draft pick AJ Majok.

—MGP, GMA Integrated News