Mikey Williams snubbed Strong Group, says team manager
MANILA, Philippines -- Strong Group Athletics (SGA) team manager Jacob Lao did not mince words against Mikey Williams, slamming the scoring guard for not supposedly showing up for the team.
Reports earlier said that Williams committed to the SGA’s stint in the upcoming Dubai International Basketball Championships later this month.
On Wednesday, head coach Charles Tiu said the team “moved on” from the guard because the 6-foot-2 sniper was “still trying to get some clearance” from the TNT Tropang Giga.
Lao, however, was at a loss on Williams’ supposed backing out from the team.
“Everything was in place, and we agreed to almost everything he wanted. At first, he agreed to the price. Then he asked for a specific time frame for his arrival. However, he just didn't show up at our practice when everybody was expecting him to, including former NBA stars and starters,” Lao said in a statement sent to members of the media.
“Now, he is not even answering our calls. We have no choice but to look for other options,” he added.
The SGA squad held an open practice to the media on Wednesday.
There, former NBA stars Andray Blatche, Dwight Howard and Andre Roberson took part in the training, along with former TNT import Mckenzie Moore.
Young guns JD Cagulangan, Justine Baltazar, Kevin Quiambao, Allen Liwag, Tony Ynot, Justine Sanchez and Francis Escandor were also present in the practice.
The only player missing was Jordan Heading.
“This is the first time we have had a player who doesn't honor his word. Now, I understand the management of the team he played for before,” Lao added.
Tiu, earlier in the day, said that Williams was his “number one choice to be the point guard of this team.”
“It is what it is. We’ll find ways to win without him. But, he would have been a great addition to our team.”
In November, the Tropang Giga terminated the contract of the high-octane shooter, but the team still holds the rights to the former Finals MVP.
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