Strong Group whips Qatar to stay perfect in Jones Cup

MANILA, Philippines, July 16 ------ Strong Group Athletics-Philippines remained undefeated in the 2025 William Jones Cup after making quick work of Qatar, 81-54, at the Xinzhuang Gymnasium in Taiwan.

Filipino-American guard DJ Fenner and Javi Gomez de Liaño stepped up with 18 points each for the undermanned Strong Group, which is dealing with injuries and illnesses after playing its third consecutive game in as many days. “We’re banged up right now,” said Strong Group head coach Charles Tiu. “Tajuan [Agee] is hurting, [Andre] Roberson’s knee is swollen, Ian [Miller]’s plantar is bothering him, and Rhenz [Abando]’s hamstring might keep him out for the Australia game. Even Dave [Ildefonso] and Geo [Chiu] are fighting off illness. Jason [Brickman] is very fatigued as well.” “Only issue right now is our health, but we will keep fighting until the end,” added Tiu.

Coming off a 79-67 win against the Japan Developmental Team on Monday, July 14, Strong Group wasted little time creating separation over Qatar as it raced to an early 13-2 lead with still exactly 6:00 to play in the opening period. It was Fenner who set the tone early for Strong Group, dropping 16 of his 18 points in just the first two quarters, as the Filipinos entered the break with a 34-25 cushion.

In the second half, it was Gomez de Liaño’s turn to take over for the Philippines, unloading 13 of his 18 markers. Aside from Fenner and Gomez de Liaño, Miller also scored in double figures for Strong Group with 10, while Roberson — who showed the way for the Philippine-based team in its first two outings — registered 7 points, 10 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals, and 2 blocks.

Strong Group looks to keep its unbeaten run going in the grueling eight-game tournament when it battles Australia on Wednesday, July 16, at 5 pm.

Source: rappler.com