McCullough finally gets chance to represent Philippines with Strong Group's Jones Cup bid

MANILA, Philippines -- Former San Miguel Beermen import Chris McCullough is happy to be representing the Philippines in an international competition, as he bolsters the Strong Group Athletics (SGA) in the Jones Cup.

McCullough, who led the Beermen to a championship in the 2019 PBA Commissioner’s Cup, said he is excited to finally don the Philippine colors.

“It always feels good. My first time playing in the Jones Cup, but just to represent the Philippines in general is an amazing feeling,” he told reporters after SGA’s practice on Tuesday.

“I always want to do it and I can finally do it.”

The 29-year-old American, multiple times in the past, expressed his desire to play for the Philippines.

He was earlier considered to be Gilas Pilipinas’ naturalized player, but it did not pan out.

Now, he will be among the main guns of a potent SGA squad that will battle it out in Taipei, Taiwan starting July 13.

McCullough stressed that if the opportunity presents itself, he would still be open to naturalization.

“If the opportunity presents itself then I’m still open. But right now, I’m just worried about the Strong Group, worried about the Jones Cup right now,” he said.

SGA is made up of McCullough, Kiefer Ravena, Ange Kouame, Dave Ildefonso, Rhenz Abando, Jordan Heading, Geo Chiu, RJ Abarrientos, DJ Fenner, Caelan Tiongson, Tajuan Agee, Jonathan Manalili, Allen Liwag and Tony Ynot.

“Honestly we mesh well together. We come in the gym and we practice together since the first day and everything’s been going right. [...] Team dinner together. Team chemistry’s just going better and better,” McCullough said.

“So far, it’s going good. We’re really getting back in shape right now before we go to Taiwan, just trying to get the team chemistry right. So once we get on the court, we know how to play with each other and win the championship,” he added.