Demarcus Cousins suiting up for Strong Group Athletics in the 34th Dubai International Basketball Championship. Photo from Facebook/SGA.Strong Group Athletics has withdrawn from participation in the 34th Dubai International Basketball Championship.

After falling short against Tunisia in the semifinals, the Charles Tiu-coached squad announced that they have “officially decided not to participate in the third-place game,” they said in a statement.

“Our decision comes after our semifinal matchup against Tunisia on Saturday evening, where we encountered officiating inconsistencies that significantly impacted the outcome of the contest.”

“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 to ‘come out much better’ even after winning debut against UAE in Dubai, says Tiu

“With just 4.4 seconds left on the clock, our standout Rhenz Abando launched a potential game-tying three-pointer but was clearly bodied from behind by Tunisian big man Mokhtar Ghyaza,” explained SGA.

Strong Group came from down 16 and were able to get as close as two, 65-63, after a Mikey Williams triple at the 1:02 mark of the fourth period.

Omar Abada then split his attempts from the foul line to give his team a slim 66-63 lead, and what followed this was when the aforementioned Abando three-point attempt happened.

This eventually led to SGA absorbing their first loss in the tournament, and it was a detrimental one as this means that they will now be missing a chance to reclaim redemption in the finals.

Demarcus Cousins and Chris McCullough each led SGA with 18 markers each, Jason Brickman followed with seven, while Williams and Abando delivered six and four, respectively.

This, however, eventually turned out to be their last game in the tourney as Strong Group made a firm stand in their decision.

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

“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.”

“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,” they added.

On the other hand, Radhouane Slimane top-scored for Tunisia with 23 points and six rebounds, and they will now be facing Beirut First Club in the finals.

If Strong Group pushes through with its decision to boycott the battle for third place, the United Arab Emirates will be named the bronze finishers.