Strong Group-Philippines capped another impressive run in the 2025 William Jones Cup, sweeping all eight of its games to retain the crown and secure the country’s eighth title in the prestigious tournament.
The defending champions, also supported by Bet88 and UAAGI, went on a perfect 8-0 run in the grueling eight-day competition, extending their winning streak in the tournament to 16 games dating back to last year.
Strong Group overwhelmed its opponents with an average winning margin of 19.38 points per game.
Strong Group president Jacob Lao credited the team’s continued success to a shared vision and support from the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas.
“We’re extremely grateful to the SBP, especially to President Al Panlilio and Executive Director Erika Dy, for backing our mission,” Lao said. “Their trust and guidance have allowed us to bring our vision for Philippine basketball to life on the international stage. This wouldn’t be possible without their belief in what we’re doing.”
The Philippine squad defeated Chinese-Taipei Blue (67-56), Japan Developmental Team (79-67), Qatar (81-54), Australia’s NBL1 Rising Stars (91-75), Chinese-Taipei White (107-75), Malaysia (106-98), Bahrain (92-68), and the United Arab Emirates (87-62) in succession to claim back-to-back titles.
“It has always been our goal to assemble the best possible team to represent the country and give Filipinos something to be proud of,” Lao added. “Every tournament we enter, we make sure we put together a group that not only competes, but dominates — and this team delivered once again.”
(C) Strong Group
Andre Roberson headlined the tournament by being named the Most Valuable Player after posting averages of 12.3 points, 10.7 rebounds, 2.3 assists, 1.4 steals, and 1.3 blocks per game.
The former NBA pro was joined by teammate Tajuan Agee on the Mythical Team, with Agee putting up 15.3 points, 7.0 rebounds, 3.0 assists, and 1.2 steals per outing despite nursing an injury.
Roberson and Agee led a deep Strong Group roster composed of Kiefer Ravena, Javi Gomez de Liaño, Dave Ildefonso, Jason Brickman, Rhenz Abando, DJ Fenner, Ian Miller, Geo Chiu, Angelo Kouame, Allen Liwag, and reserve Anthony Roberson.
“This was a special team,” Lao said. “We’re very thankful the guys decided to have one more run with us. We know by next year things might change — Jason and DJ may enter the PBA Draft, and Javi, Rhenz, and Dave could be headed to new teams. So to have them all here again and win another title is truly something to cherish.”
With the Jones Cup secured, Strong Group is setting its sights on larger goals for Philippine basketball.
Lao emphasized the group’s commitment to grassroots development, continuing its support for collegiate teams from UE, UP, UST, Letran, and Benilde.
Strong Group — under Lao and head coach Charles Tiu — is also planning to bring international teams and athletes to the Philippines in future initiatives.
“We want to bring world-class basketball to the Philippines,” Lao revealed. “It’s about time we bring that kind of action closer to our local basketball community and inspire the younger generation.”
