Kevin Quiambao and Francis Escandor have proven their worth.
The two La Salle stalwarts paved the way in Strong Group Athletics’ impressive 89-67 victory over the Syrian club Al Wahda on Saturday evening at Al Nasr Club.
Quiambao, the reigning UAAP Most Valuable Player, tallied 24 points, five rebounds, two assists, and a block, leading the Philippine-based club team to a 2-0 record in the 33rd Dubai International Basketball Championship.
Meanwhile, La Salle senior Escandor fired 18 points, built on five treys.
With the two leading the charge, SGA raced to an 18-10 lead and never looked back.
Also firing on all cylinders were Jordan Heading and Andray Blatche.
Both Gilas stalwarts scored 12 points apiece, with Blatche atoning for a scoreless outing in SGA’s 82-66 victory over UAE on opening day.
Dwight Howard did not need to do much in the contest that saw SGA lead by as much as 27 points, finishing with 10 rebounds and four blocks to go with five points.
SGA will play its third game in as many days on Sunday, going up against Homenetmen, who lost to Al Ahli last Saturday.
Al Wahda, who also compete in the West Asia Super League, fell to 0-1 in Group B.
Myron Jordan led the Syrian team with 19 points, while Jomaru Hohadbrown added 17 markers.
The Scores:
Strong Group 89 – Quiambao 24, Escandor 18, Blatche 12, Heading 12, Moore 8, Howard 5, Roberson 5, Baltazar 3, Ynot 2, Cagulangan 0, Sanchez 0, Liwag 0.
Al Wahda 67 – Jordan 19, Hohadbrown 17, Alhamwi 10, Dejohn Banks 8, Arbasha 5, Jlelati 4, Kassabali 2, Otabachi 2, Aljabi 0, Al Osh 0, Alhalabi 0, Osh 0.
Quarterscores: 23-14, 43-30, 64-48, 89-67.
