Strong Group to square off with UAE national team in Dubai tilt opener

Dwight Howard will finally get his first taste of action bannering a Philippine team when Strong Group kicks off its campaign in the 33rd Dubai International Basketball Championship on Friday, January 19.

The squad made up of four imports and a group of young Filipino cagers will take on the UAE national team at the Al Nasr Stadium at 11:15 p.m. (Manila time) to start their campaign.

They will then be pitted against Al Wahda on Saturday, January 20, at 9:15 p.m. in the same venue before closing their weekend schedule against Homenetmen on Sunday, January 21, at 11:15 p.m.

Strong Group, which is eyeing to improve on a quarterfinals finish in the previous edition, will take a break before returning to action on early Wednesday against Beirut Sports Club at 1:15 a.m. and Al Ahly Tri Sports Club on Thursday morning at 1:15 a.m. as well.

Howard, an eight-time NBA All-Star and a three-time Defensive Player of the Year, is tipped to be a dominant force for the Philippine side.

Joining him in the frontcourt are naturalized Filipino big man Andray Blatche as well as Andre Roberson and Mckenzie Moore. The local crew will be led by Kevin Quiambao, Jordan Heading, Justine Baltazar, and JD Cagulangan.

Completing the squad are Francis Escandor, Justine Sanchez, Tony Ynot, and Allen Liwag.

—Bea Micaller/JMB, GMA Integrated News