Mikey Williams still in talks with TNT, out for Strong Group

MANILA, Philippines – Mikey Williams will not be part of the Strong Group Athletics (SGA) team that will compete in the Dubai International Championship, head coach Charles Tiu said.

Tiu revealed the news during Wednesday’s open practice at the Urdaneta Village in Makati City. 

There were reports earlier that the guard, who is currently out of the PBA, committed to play for SGA for the Dubai tilt. 

“I don’t think Mikey will be part [of the team] anymore, unfortunately. I think he still has some talks with TNT [Tropang Giga],” Tiu told reporters after the practice. 

Williams has been out of TNT for a few months now. 

Back in November, the Tropang Giga terminated Williams’ contract. Despite this, the team still holds the rights to the former Finals MVP. 

"We’ve been waiting for his answer, he said he’s still trying to get some clearance so I think it’s best that we decide to play it safe, make sure he doesn’t get in trouble. After all, his PBA is more important so we’ve decided to move on,” he added. 

Tiu admitted that he wanted Williams to be a part of the team. 

He said that he is “actually one of the first guys” he reached out to. 

“[Williams was] my number one choice to be the point guard of this team but it is what it is. We’ll find ways to win without him,” the coach said. 

“He would’ve been a great addition to our team.”

Imports Andray Blatche, Dwight Howard, Mckenzie Moore and Andre Roberson attended Wednesday’s practice. 

Also present were JD Cagulangan, Justine Baltazar, Kevin Quiambao, Allen Liwag, Tony Ynot, Justine Sanchez and Francis Escandor.