FORMER Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagle Chris Koon begins his professional career with Strong Group Athletics (SGA) in the 34e Dubai International Basketball Championship from January 24 to February 2.
The addition of Mr Koon completed SGA’s roster for its redemption tour in the vibrant Middle Eastern city, following a second-place finish last year.
A 6-foot-1 guard, Mr. Koon enters his final year with the Blue Eagles in UAAP Season 87, averaging 7.58 points, 4.17 rebounds and 1.83 assists against the once-powerful Ateneo program recorded a surprising early exit at the bottom spot.
“He has good wing size, can shoot and can defend. I think he will be a good role player for us. And we all know he’s well-coached and comes from a great school and program, so it’s good to have him,” said head coach Charles Tiu.
The Phil-American ace will join a formidable local squad led by his former Ateneo teammate Dave Ildefonso, Rhenz Abando, Mikey Williams and Jason Brickman, alongside players from Mr. Tiu’s College of St. Benilde in NCAA MVP Allen Liwag, Tony Ynot and Justine Sanchez.
Strengthening the Philippine club are American imports DeMarcus Cousins, Malachi Richardson and Terry Larrier, as well as naturalized players Andray Blatche and Ange Kouame from Gilas Pilipinas.
SGA, then led by Dwight Howard, powered their way to the Dubai final and tasted an overwhelming defeat against Lebanon’s Al Riyadi, 77-74. — John Bryan Ulanday