Andre Roberson is back to lead the charge for Strong Group-Pilipinas as the team aims to defend its crown in the 44th William Jones Cup, set from July 12 to 20 at the Xinzhuang Gymnasium in New Taipei City, Taiwan.
Roberson last suited up for Strong Group during the 2024 Dubai International Basketball Championship. He joins a loaded roster that includes the core of last year’s championship team, signaling the squad’s intent to go all out for a back-to-back.
“We’re going all out in defending the country’s William Jones Cup title. We’re glad to bring back the core of the team, and with their chemistry and experience, we’re confident in our chances. More than anything, we want to make the country proud again,” said Strong Group president Jacob Lao.
Reuniting with the Bet88-backed squad are Filipino standouts Kiefer Ravena, Jason Brickman, Dave Ildefonso, Rhenz Abando, Angelo Kouame, Geo Chiu, and reigning NCAA Most Valuable Player Allen Liwag.
“Yeah, I’m excited to bring back some guys from our championship squad. This might be the first time we’re able to run it back with this many returning players,” added head coach Charles Tiu.
Also rejoining the team are 6-foot-6 guard DJ Fenner, who traces his roots to Malabon City, and 6-foot-9 big man Tajuan Agee — both key contributors during last year’s undefeated campaign.
Strong Group, also supported by Buffalo’s Wings N’ Things, Farm Fresh, ZUS Coffee, and ChickyFam, with LGR Sportswear as its official jersey partner, opens its title defense against Chinese-Taipei Blue on July 13, followed by a clash with the Japan Under-25 Akatsuki Five on July 14.
However, the team will miss the services of Kiefer Ravena for its first two games due to prior commitments.
“The big challenge is that we’ll be facing Taipei A in our very first game, and we haven’t played any tune-up games yet. We’ll have to see how quickly the team can gel. Kiefer will also miss a couple of games, but we’re definitely looking to defend our crown,” Tiu noted.
