Strong Group downs Moroccan squad to book semis slot in Dubai

The Strong Group of the Philippines took down Morocco's AS Salé, 92-80, on early Saturday (Manila time) in the quarterfinals of the Dubai International Basketball Championship to advance to the tournament's semifinals.

After trailing, 21-19, at the end of the first period, the Philippine team outscored its opponent, 25-15, in the second frame and ended the first half with a 44-36 advantage. 

Strong Group led by as much as 16 points, 87-71, with 2:23 left in the fourth quarter before it won its sixth straight game.

Andre Roberson led the Philippine squad as it flirted with a double-double performance of 18 points and nine rebounds, while Dwight Howard posted 17 points and 12 boards. McKenzie Moore also chipped in 17 points, while Kevin Quiambao had 15 markers.

Ramon Galloway had 27 points, while Tyler Williams had 20 points for AS Salé.

Strong Group will face the Beirut Sports Club in the semifinals on Sunday at 1:15 a.m. The Philippine team previously defeated Beirut, 95-73.

—JKC, GMA Integrated News