RAVENA RETURNS, STRONG GROUP BLASTS AUSTRALIA FOR FOURTH STRAIGHT WIN
NEW TAIPEI CITY — Strong Group Athletics-Philippines continued its unbeaten run in the 44th William Jones Cup with a wire-to-wire 91-75 dismantling of Australia, Wednesday evening at the Xinzhuang Gymnasium, with Kiefer Ravena making his return to the lineup.
Back from Athens, Greece where he took part in Jordan Brand's Board of Greatness, Ravena contributed nine points, two assists, and two rebounds in his first game back with SGA.
“Glad to have Kiefer back who is really my extension on the court,” said head coach Charles Tiu. “One of the smartest guys I’ve coached definitely. Makes things easier.”
From the opening whistle, SGA controlled the tempo, never allowing the Aussies to build any rhythm. A second-quarter explosion — a 21-9 scoring run — turned a modest 26-21 lead into a commanding 47-30 halftime advantage.
From there, Strong Group, also backed by Bet88 and UAAGI, never looked back.
“This was our best offensive game of the tournament,” said Tiu. “Guys played well—another game where multiple guys in double digits. Balanced scoring for us, which is what our team is about. Getting everybody involved. Four games down, four to go!”
Seven players finished in double figures. Andre Roberson led the charge with 16 points, 12 rebounds, six assists, and a steal for his third double-double of the tournament.
Ian Miller followed with 12 points, six assists, and a steal, while Tajuan Agee chipped in 12 markers and 11 boards after returning from injury.
Ange Kouame added 11 points, six rebounds, and a steal; Dave Ildefonso contributed 10 points, four rebounds, and two assists.
Javi Gomez de Liaño nearly tallied a double-double with eight points and eight rebounds, while also posting three assists and two steals.
For Gomez de Liaño, the matchup against Australia held value as he reunited on court with former UP Fighting Maroons teammate James Spencer.
“Today brought back a lot of memories playing with James, although today we were opponents,” said Gomez de Liaño. “I’m very proud of how James has grown through the years. He was our rookie during my third year playing for UP.”
Spencer finished with 11 points, six rebounds, and five assists in a solid showing for the Aussies, while Mac Stodart paced the team with 19 points, five boards, three steals, and a block.
With the win, Strong Group moved to 4-0 in the tournament, keeping pace with fellow undefeated team Bahrain (5-0).
Meanwhile, Australia dropped below .500 at 2-3.
SGA-Philippines will aim to make it five straight victories when they take on Chinese Taipei White tomorrow at 5:00 p.m.
