Mighty Sports-Philippines faces an acid test right in its debut in the 2017 Dubai International Basketball Tournament when it collides with host Al Ahli Basketball Club on Friday at the Al Ahli Gym in Dubai, UAE.
Charles Tiu described their opening assignment with the host squad as critical to their title bid since Al Ahli has been tipped as one of the teams to beat in the annual tournament that gathered some of the best club teams in the region.
Al Ahli is on a roll, having won all its 10 games in UAE’s local tournament.
“Al Ahli is a tough team, number one in their local tournament,” said the 27-year-old mentor. “They are led by former NBA players in Sam Young and Chiekh Samb. Plus they are the home team so it should be a big challenge.”
While members of Al Ahli side are already familiar with each other, Tiu said his team is yet to practice in full force as Jett Manuel is battling through an injury while Kiefer Ravena and Chris Tiu made sure to clear up their other commitments before joining the team.
“Hopefully, the mix of having some veterans and smart players will help our cohesion,” said Tiu.
But, Tiu is banking on that chemistry will be developed as the tournament progresses.
“Chemistry is something we are still working on. We will have one complete practice before the tournament,” he added.
Supported by Scratch It and Rain or Shine, Mighty Sports-Philippines will be bannered by NBA veterans Hasheem Thabeet, Dominic McGuire and Justin Brownlee.
Rain or Shine mainstays Chris Tiu and Beau Belga banner the local cast with PBA veterans JC Intal, Gary David, Ryan Arana, and two-time MVP Willie Millier out to provide additional firepower.
Amateur standouts Kiefer Ravena, Jeron Teng, and Jett Manuel complete the line-up that is out to redeem their heartbreak from the 2016 Merlion Cup.
The game is scheduled at 9:00pm Philippine Time.
