The 2017 Dubai International Basketball Championship is a cagefest not worth remembering for Mighty Sports-Philippines, but it was a stint that gave Jeron Teng a handful of lessons and a whole lot of experience.
It can be remembered that the Philippine contingent wrapped up the Middle Eastern tourney with a dismal 1-5 record — a far cry from their runs in the William Jones Cup and the Merlion Cup, in which they bagged home gold and silver medals, respectively.
“We didn’t get the results that we wanted,” lamented the returning Teng regarding their dismal finish, moments after AMA had lost to Wangs Basketball, 98-93, in the 2017 PBA D-League Aspirant’s Cup Monday afternoon.
During the week-long tournament, Mighty Sports lost five straight against A.S Sale, Egypt National Team, Sagesse, Homenetmen Beirut B.C., and Al Riyadi, who kicked them out early from the playoff race. In those games, Teng only posted norms of 4.4 markers.
The six-foot-three forward’s best game came in their final match of the tournament, against Dubai-based club team Ball Above All, finishing with 22 markers on 8-of-13 shooting along with four boards to help Mighty Sports to a 94-80 victory.
It was definitely a forgettable tilt for the Philippine side, but the La Salle alumnus is nothing but grateful for the opportunity he was given to not just represent the country, but also to acquire new experiences as he got another taste of international ball.
“[It was a] learning experience for me,” said the 2010 Youth Olympian.
“I’ve really learned a lot from it. It’s a big difference playing against international players.”
“Of course I was teammates with other vets — those people I look up to in the PBA. Marami akong na-pick up from Dubai,” declared the two-time UAAP gold medalist, with regards on playing alongside the likes of pros Chris Tiu, Willie Miller, JC Intal, and Beau Belga.
And if ever Mighty Sports comes knocking at his door to ask for another run, the 22-year-old La Salle alumnus will not hesitate to yes to them.
“Knowing a good corporation like Mighty, for sure babawi kami. If I get invited, it will be my honor to play for Mighty again,” Teng assured.
