Strong Group-Philippines player Rhenz Abando goes for a layup during the game against host Chinese Taipei Blue in the 44th William Jones Cup at the Xinzhuang Gymnasium on Sunday (July 13, 2025). He had 11 points, three assists, two rebounds, two steals, and two blocks in their 67-56 victory. (Contributed photo)
Strong Group-Philippines kicked off their 44th William Jones Cup campaign with an impressive come-from-behind 67-56 win over host team Chinese Taipei Blue on Sunday night at the Xinzhuang Gymnasium.
Down 28-35 at halftime, the Filipino squad exploded with a massive 21-4 third-quarter surge, flipping the game in their favor with a 50-39 lead heading into the final period. From there, they maintained control and sealed the victory with their stifling defense and balanced attack.
Anchoring the turnaround was former NBA player Andre Roberson, who dominated on both ends of the floor. He finished with 17 points, 19 rebounds—nine of them on the offensive glass—and five steals to lead the charge.
Strong Group head coach Charles Tiu praised his team’s defensive mindset, particularly highlighting the local talent that stepped up in key moments.
“This is exactly why we built this team—to be defense-first, with Dre Rob and Agee leading the way,” said Tiu. “But huge credit goes to our locals too—Dave, DJ, Rhenz, and Jason. Once we made the adjustments, they really locked in.”
Supporting Roberson were Ian Miller with 16 points, and Rhenz Abando, who contributed across the board with 11 points, three assists, two rebounds, two steals, and two blocks. Tajuan Agee, Jason Brickman, DJ Fenner, and Dave Ildefonso also played crucial roles in the win.
Tiu admitted the victory was also personal, following Gilas Pilipinas’ previous loss to the Taiwanese squad earlier this year at the Taipei Heping Gymnasium.
“We remembered that loss, and it motivated us. We were determined to get back at them,” he said.
Despite the promising start, Tiu tempered expectations, noting that the team is still finding its rhythm on offense.
“Our offense is still developing—we’re learning each other’s tendencies game by game,” Tiu explained. “But our defensive identity is already there. That’s where we hang our hats.”
Strong Group-Philippines looks to build on the momentum as they face Japan’s developmental team next, scheduled for Monday at 5 p.m.
