FILE–Ange Kouame.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines — Ange Kouame and RJ Abarrientos bolstered the Strong Group-Philippines roster for the 43rd William Jones Cup set from July 13 to 21 in Taipei.
The local club team on Sunday announced its latest addition to its roster as Kouame is set to make his third appearance in the Jones Cup after playing for Ateneo in 2018 and reinforcing Rain or Shine last year.
“Ange has been like a son to our team owner, Boss Frank (Lao). Finally, I will get the chance to coach him, especially after our Dubai stint where he got sick and had to miss the tournament completely,” said Strong Group coach Charles Tiu.
READ: Strong Group taps ex-PBA import Chris McCullough for Jones Cup
“I know he’s improved a lot and has been healthy, so that’s a good sign. Whenever it comes to playing for the flag, Ange has always been willing.”
The Gilas naturalized center was supposed to play for Strong Group in the 2023 Dubai International Basketball Championship but his team-up with former NBA star Dwight Howard was derailed due to dengue.
Kouame played in France with Nationale Masculine 1 club UB Chartres Métropole, averaging 10.2 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks in 22 games.
“I’m really, really happy to represent the country again. It’s another opportunity for me to win this competition,” said the UAAP Season 84 MVP.
Meanwhile, Abarrientos, armed with his experience with his B.League team Shinshu Brave Warriors in Japan, teams up with Kiefer Ravena and Jordan Heading.
READ: Strong Group brings back Jordan Heading for Jones Cup
“RJ was one of our first options for the point guard spot, but we had to wait until he got clearance from Japan and his agent to play,” said Tiu. “I always like guards who can score, so we are excited to have him on the team. When the opportunity to play for the country arose, he immediately said yes!”
In his debut season with the Brave Warriors, Abarrientos averaged 7.8 points and 2.4 assists per game.
The Far Eastern University product won the 2022-23 Korean Basketball League Rookie of the Year with the Ulsan Hyundai Mobis before taking his act to Japan.
“Of course, I’m very excited because it’s my first time on the team, and I’m eager to play with my kuyas and to represent our country again,” Abarrientos said. “I’m also thankful for the opportunity given to me by SGA. I can’t wait to join them and compete on the big stage.”
Chris McCullough and Caelan Tiongson are also part of Strong Group’s roster for the Jones Cup.