Strong Group bows out of Dubai tilt after QF loss to Al Riyadi

Strong Group of the Philippines absorbed a 106-97 quarterfinals beating at the hands of powerhouse Al Riyadi of Lebanon to formally bow out of the 32nd Dubai International Basketball Championship on Friday morning (Manila time) at the Al Nasr Club in Dubai.

Shabazz Muhammad and Renaldo Balkman were among the bright spots for the Philippine bets with the former finishing with a team-high 27 points alongside seven rebounds, three assists, and one block. Balkman, who saw action in the PBA as import, chipped in 16 markers, 15 boards, and three dimes.

But their numbers weren't enough against a taller Lebanese club.

Amir Saoud, who will lead Lebanon national team against Gilas Pilipinas on February 24 in the Window 6 of the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers, led the squad with a whopping 41 points to go along with four rebounds and one steal.

Wael Arakji, also a member of the Lebanese national team, and Atel Majok chipped in 13 points apiece while Gyok Haykchan added 12.

“Painful and frustrating loss for us. Couldn’t stop Saoud today no matter what we did. Just too experienced for our team right now. Offense wasn’t the problem but couldn’t get stops,” said Strong Group head coach Charles Tiu.

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—JMB, GMA Integrated News