Strong Group-Pilipinas cruises past Japan for 6th straight win in Jones Cup
Despite missing three key players, Strong Group-Pilipinas continued their unbeaten streak in the 2024 William Jones Cup with a convincing 92-79 victory over Japan’s under-22 team on Friday, July 19, at the Xinzhuang Gymnasium in Taiwan.
In their sixth game in just seven days, the Filipinos were without Rhenz Abando and Ange Kouame due to minor injuries, and Tajuan Agee due to illness. Nevertheless, they dominated the Japanese team from start to finish, securing a top-two finish in the tournament with a flawless 6-0 record.
Chris McCullough, the star import for Strong Group, showcased his skills with a game-high 26 points on an impressive 12-of-17 shooting from the field. DJ Fenner, the Filipino-American guard, also made a significant contribution with 17 points.
Despite a narrow 4-point lead at the end of the first quarter, Fenner ignited the team in the second period, scoring 11 of his 17 points on a perfect 3-of-3 shooting, helping Strong Group build a commanding 54-36 lead at halftime.
Jordan Heading and Kiefer Ravena, former Gilas Pilipinas guards, continued to deliver consistent performances with 11 and 9 points, respectively. Geo Chiu stepped up admirably in the absence of key players, contributing 8 points and 7 rebounds.
On the Japanese side, Hiyuu Ozawa led the scoring with 17 points, including five three-pointers, while John Harper, Ryosuke Saeki, and Ryosei Saito each added 10 points.
With a guaranteed silver medal, Strong Group is set to face Chinese Taipei-White in their upcoming game, followed by a highly anticipated match against fellow unbeaten team Chinese Taipei-Blue.
The championship title will go to the team with the best record at the end of the tournament, adding even more excitement to the upcoming games.
The scores:
Strong Group 92 – McCullough 26, Fenner 17, Heading 11, Ravena 9, Chiu 8, Abarrientos 5, Tiongson 4, Ynot 4, Liwag 4, Ildefonso 2, Manalili 2.
Japan 79 – Ozawa 17, Harper 10, Saeki 10, Sato 10, Kibayashi 9, Hasegawa 5, Kurokawa 3, Buto 3, Watanabe 2, Asai 2, Arai 2.
Quarterscores: 22-18, 54-36, 70-55, 92-79.
