Former Los Angeles Lakers star Dwight Howard led the way for Strong Group as they clinched a win over Homenetmen-Lebanon in the 2024 Dubai International Basketball Championship. The match, which took place at the Al Nasr Club, saw a late eruption from Kevin Quiambao and Andray Blatche that helped secure the victory for the Philippine squad.
Howard, a champion in the NBA, contributed 32 points and showcased a strong defensive performance with seven rebounds and five blocks. Blatche and Quiambao also played crucial roles in the win, with Blatche scoring 18 points, including 15 in the fourth quarter, and Quiambao finishing with 19 points, four rebounds, and four assists.
Despite a challenging first half where they trailed Homenetmen, Strong Group managed to regain control in the third quarter and ultimately secure a 104-95 victory. The win marked the team’s third consecutive victory in the tournament.
The Group B standings are currently being led by Strong Group and Al Ahli Tripoli with three wins each, while defending champion Al Riyadi tops Group A. The Charles Tiu-coached squad is now set to face Sports Club Beirut after a one day rest following their three-day playdate.
The victory over Homenetmen-Lebanon adds to Strong Group’s earlier wins in the tournament, including an 82-66 rout of UAE national team and an 89-67 drubbing of Al Wahda Syria in their previous assignments. On the losing side, Zach Lofton led Homenetmen-Lebanon with 37 points, while Gerard Hadidian and Elijah Holman also made significant contributions.
