Strong Group moves on from Mikey Williams as Dubai tourney nears

Strong Group head coach Charles Tiu on Wednesday said they have decided to move on from acquiring the services of prized guard Mikey Williams for their upcoming campaign in the 33rd Dubai International Basketball Championship.

Tiu revealed that Williams was their original option in the guard position, but the tactician said the latter remains in talks with TNT for a possible return in the PBA. This leaves Tiu and the Strong Group with no other option but to make do with what they have in the roster.

"I don't think he will be part anymore. Unfortunately, I think he still has some talks with TNT. We've been waiting for his answer. He said he's trying to get clearance," Tiu said during their practice on Wednesday in Makati.

On Wednesday afternoon, Strong Group team manager Jacob Lao said Williams did not honor his word after their initial agreement.

"At first, he agreed to come with the price. Then he asked for a certain time frame for his arrival. Then this, he just didn't show up in our practice when everybody was expecting him to be including these former NBA stars and starters," Lao said in a statement.

"Now, he is not even answering our call. We have no choice but to look for other options," he added. "This is the first time we have a player who doesn't have word of honor."

With no Williams on board, Strong Group will rely on their backcourt led by JD Cagulangan, Jordan Heading, Tony Ynot, and Francis Escandor while reinforcements Dwight Howard, Andray Blatche, Mckenzie Moore, and Andre Roberson will bolster the squad as they hope to eclipse their quarterfinal exit in the previous edition.

"It's a shame because he's actually one of the first guys I reached out to, my number one choice to be the point guard of this team but it is what it is," Tiu said.

"We'll find ways to win without him but he would've been a great addition to our team."

—JKC, GMA Integrated News