Strong Group Athletics is moving on without Mikey Williams.
Initially, the Dubai-bound club team was supposed to have the enigmatic combo guard on its roster after gaining his commitment.
However, when practices began last weekend at Urdaneta Village in Makati, the two-time PBA Finals MVP was a no-show.
“We really don’t know what happened (why he suddenly backed out). Everything was in place, and we agreed to almost everything he wanted,” said SGA team manager Jacob Lao.
“At first, he agreed to the price. Then he asked for a specific time frame for his arrival,” the youthful sports executive continued.
“However, he just didn’t show up at our practice when everybody was expecting him to, including former NBA stars and starters.”
Charles Tiu specifically picked Williams as the primary ball-handler of the team for the tournament, knowing full well that he is a restricted free agent.
“It’s a shame because he’s actually one of the first guys I reached out to. He’s my number one choice to be the point guard of this team,” said Tiu, who handled the negotiations with Williams.
Strong Group even got clearance to suit him up for the short tournament that will run from January 19-28.
“Now, he is not even answering our calls. We have no choice but to look for other options,” Lao continued as his backcourt will be composed of Jordan Heading, Tony Ynot, and JD Cagulangan.
Also part of the team are Dwight Howard, Kevin Quiambao, Andre Roberson, Andray Blatche, Justine Baltazar, Ef Escandor, Justine Sanchez, and Allen Liwag.
“This is the first time we have had a player who doesn’t honor his word,” lamented Lao.
“Now, I understand the management of the team he played for before.”
