Strong Group’s 16-game winning streak in the William Jones Cup has come to an end.
The defending two-time Jones Cup champions opened their title defense on a sour note, bowing to KBL club Wonju DB Promy, 110-79, on Friday at Xinzhuang Gymnasium in Taiwan.
Serving as Strong Group’s bane was Filipino-American guard Ethan Alvano, who tallied 17 points, five assists, and two steals to help Wonju DB take the early lead in Group A as of publishing.
Chinese-Taipei Blue and Japan were still playing as of publishing.
Strong Group got off to a rusty start, falling behind 28-15 in the opening frame after shooting just 5-of-16 from the field. Defense also proved to be a problem, as the Promy shot efficiently throughout the contest.
Tajuan Agee was the lone bright spot for Strong Group, finishing with 21 points on 8-of-9 shooting from the field and 10 rebounds.
Isaiah Pineiro added 13 points and eight rebounds, while Malick Diouf chipped in 10 points. Then William Navarro and DJ Fenner combined for 15 points, although Fenner struggled from the field, shooting just 3-of-11.
Boban Marjanovic was held to six points and one rebound, while Remy Martin managed just three points.
Rayshaun Hammonds led Wonju DB with 25 points and 14 rebounds, while Yi Yongwoo added 21 points on seven three-pointers.
Kang Sanjae also scored 16 points for the Promy.
Strong Group will look to bounce back against Japan on Saturday at 3:00 PM.
