Strong Group adds Abando, stocks up on firepower for Jones Cup
Strong Group-Pilipinas added more firepower to its roster by securing the commitment of Rhenz Abando for the 43rd William Jones Cup that will take place from July 13-21 in Taipei, Taiwan.
Abando is no stranger to the Philippine basketball community. He first earned praise for his performance with UST in the Growling Tigers’ run to the 2019 UAAP Finals. He then won an MVP and title for Letran in the NCAA before being recruited by Anyang Jung Kwan Jang in the KBL, where he won a title in 2023.
Currently a free agent, Abando will continue to develop his game with an SGA team that also includes Ange Kouame, RJ Abarrientos, Kiefer Ravena, Jordan Heading, Caelan Tiongson, and Chris McCullough.
“I’m happy to have the opportunity to finally coach Rhenz. I’ve coached against him in the past, and I think he’s a great player,” said Charles Tiu, the team’s head coach.
“More on excited ako makapaglaro for Strong Group kasi nung nasa Korea ako, pinapanood ko yung games nila sa Dubai,” said Abando, who averaged 9.9 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.1 assists in his last KBL stint.
The 26-year-old also had impressive moments with Gilas in last year’s FIBA World Cup held in Manila.
Photo courtesy of: SGA Athletics
