Strong Group withdraws from Dubai bronze game after controversial loss

Strong Group’s Rhenz Abando takes a 3-pointer in the closing seconds of a semifinal game against Tunisia in the Dubai International Basketball Championship.–SGA PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines—Strong Group Athletics (SGA) has withdrawn from its bronze medal game in the Dubai International Basketball Championship as a sign of protest following a controversial loss to Tunisia in the semifinals Sunday morning (Manila time).

In a statement, Strong Group said “officiating inconsistencies that significantly impacted” its 68-63 setback was one of the reasons that led to the team’s decision not to participate in the battle for third.

“We at Strong Group Athletics have officially decided not to participate in the third-place game of the 34th Dubai Basketball International Championship, as we call for equality and fairness in officiating and for the game to be treated with the proper respect,” said Strong Group, which came into the game undefeated at 5-0.

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“Throughout the game, multiple non-calls were made against us, with crucial decisions favoring Tunisia. The most controversial moment came in the final seconds when we were trailing 66-63.”

SGA was referring to Rhenz Abando’s three-point attempt at the top of the key where Tunisian big man Mokhtar Ghyaza appeared to have made contact with the Filipino forward from behind but no whistle was made.

“As competitors, we respect the game and its governing principles. However, fairness and accountability are fundamental in maintaining the integrity of international basketball,” the statement read.

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“Our decision not to play in the third-place match is not just about one game—it is about advocating for officiating that upholds the spirit of sportsmanship and ensures that all teams are given a fair chance to compete,” Strong Group added.

American reinforcements DeMarcus Cousins and Chris McCullough paced SGA in the loss with 18 points apiece.

“We extend our gratitude to our supporters and assure our fans that despite this unfortunate outcome, we remain committed to representing the Philippines with pride on the global stage.”

It was the second straight year that Strong Group had suffered a heartbreaking end to its campaign in Dubai after a buzzer-beating loss in last year’s title game to Al Riyadi of Lebanon.