Angelo Kouame and Malick Diouf have faced off in numerous thrilling battles in the UAAP, cementing their status as two of the league’s all-time greats.
Kouame was instrumental in Ateneo’s dominance, leading the Blue Eagles to championships in UAAP Seasons 81, 82, and 85. Meanwhile, Diouf powered the University of the Philippines to its historic title in Season 84.
Their rivalry has defined an era in Philippine collegiate basketball.
Now, the two might cross paths once again, this time on the international stage. The two are preparing to represent different teams in the 34th Dubai International Basketball Championship.
Kouame will suit up for Strong Group Athletics, while Diouf is joining the Zamboanga Valientes.
Both players feel excited about the opportunity.
“It’s always a blessing, especially to represent the country. I hope we get the win this year in the Dubai tournament,” said Kouame, a naturalized Filipino and the UAAP Season 84 MVP and Season 85 Finals MVP.
Diouf, the UAAP Season 84 Finals MVP and Season 85 MVP, echoed the sentiment: “It’s a good opportunity, playing in Dubai. It’s an international league – everybody wants to play there. There are a lot of scouts. If I do my best, hopefully, I get a chance to play outside.”
However, a potential match-up between the two won’t come easy.
Strong Group enters the tournament as one of the favorites, boasting a deep and experienced roster.
The Athletics are grouped with Dubai, Al Nasr, Amman, and Beirut, making them strong contenders to top their bracket.
In contrast, Zamboanga faces an uphill climb.
Their lineup is not as deep, and they’ve only recently completed their roster.
The Valientes are grouped with Sagesse SC, Al Ahli Tripoli, Sharjah, and Tunisia, presenting a challenging road to the crossover playoffs.
Despite the odds, both Kouame and Diouf hope they get to duel once more, this time on foreign soil.
“I’ll be happy to face him again, especially while both of us are representing the Philippines,” said Kouame. “Both of us are trying to bring pride to the country, and I’m looking forward to it.”
Diouf shared the same enthusiasm.
“Hopefully, since we’re in different brackets, if both teams perform well, we can meet in the finals. Playing against Ange in the UAAP was always exciting. If we face off again, it’s going to be just as intense.”
