Abando, Ildefonsobeef up SGA

MANILA, Philippines — Former international imports Rhenz Abando and Dave Ildefonso headlined the latest additions to the Strong Group Athletics roster for the 34th Dubai International Basketball Championship on Jan. 24 to Feb. 2.

Both with experiences in the Korean Basketball League, massive expectations will be on the shoulders of Abando and Ildefonso to lead SGA’s local crew in a serious redemption tour after the team’s runner-up finish last year.

“They’ve both proven themselves on big stages before, but this tournament will be a test of their ability to lead and deliver under pressure,” said coach Charles Tiu, who celebrated his 36th birthday yesterday.

Aside from Abando and Ildefonso, who also had national team stints, SGA has tapped NCAA MVP Allen Liwag, Tony Ynot and Justine Sanchez of Tiu’s St. Benilde squad in the NCAA.

That should be enough to compensate for the absence of local standouts Kevin Quiambao and JD Cagulangan – now in Korea – as well as sniper Jordan Heading, who is already with Converge in the PBA, after their previous SGA stints.

Gilas naturalized players Ange Kouame and Andray Blatche are also in the fray to join ex-NBA star Demarcus Cousins in manning SGA’s frontline with seasoned guard Jason Brickman quarterbacking the offense.

More players are expected to be announced by SGA to complete the line-up as the Filipinos plot a revenge bid after a heartbreaking finale loss against Lebanon’s Al Riyadi at the buzzer, 77-74.

Meanwhile, Filipino representation in Korea is now complete after the arrival of UAAP MVP Kevin Quiambao from La Salle yesterday to join his mother club Goyang Sono Skygunners in the KBL.