STRONG Group Athletics announces its selection as the Philippine represen- tative for the 43rd William Jones Cup, slated to be held from July 13 to 21, 2024, in Taipei, Taiwan.
This marks the inaugural participa- tion of Strong Group-Philippines in this esteemed tournament, which has become a beloved mid-year tradition for Filipinos.
Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) executive director Erika Dy ex- pressed her confidence in Strong Group Athletics, stating, “Strong Group Athlet- ics has been contributing to Philippine sports by supporting athletes and nation- al sports associations (NSAs) such as the SBP. Mr. Frank Lao, his son Jacob, and Strong Group have shared their desire to bring back the Jones Cup championship trophy to the country and bring joy to Filipinos overseas.
“The SBP is thankful for their partnership in this Jones Cup mission.”
Jacob Lao, President of Strong Group Athletics, emphasized the organization’s commitment to showcase Filipino talent in the international stage, stating, “Strong Group Athletics was formed to help in showcasing what the Filipino athlete can do on the international stage.
“We are grateful to the SBP for al- lowing us to compete in the prestigious William Jones Cup and bring joy to the overseas Filipino workers in Taiwan just like what we did in Dubai a few months ago.”
In January 2024, Strong Group Ath- letics made a mark in international basketball by finishing second in the Dubai International Basketball Cham- pionship, led by a stellar team featur- ing Dwight Howard, Kevin Quiambao, Justine Baltazar, Jordan Heading, and Andre Roberson.
For the coming William Jones Cup, Strong Group Athletics will be under the guidance of coaches Charles Tiu and Rajko Toroman.
Tiu, who previously clinched victory in 2016 and 2019 with Mighty Sports, expressed his determination, stating, “We will form a team that will be ready to win it all and that Filipinos will be proud of.
“I am hoping to bring back the Jones Cup championship to the Philippines after some time. It would be a moment of immense pride for our nation, and we’re committed to working tirelessly to make this dream a reality.”