
MANILA – Strong Group Athletics-Pilipinas has opted to forgo its scheduled bronze medal match against the United Arab Emirates national team at the 34th Dubai International Basketball Championships on Sunday night (Monday in the Philippines) in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
In an official statement, SGA-Pilipinas explained that its withdrawal from the third-place contest is a protest against the “officiating inconsistencies” they encountered during their 68-63 semifinal loss to Tunisia on Saturday night (Sunday in the Philippines).
“We call for equality and fairness in officiating and for the game to be treated with the proper respect,” the SGA-Pilipinas said in a statement posted on their website on Sunday.
“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,” it added.
SGA-Pilipinas pointed out several missed calls by the referees, most notably a foul on Rhenz Abando’s three-point attempt with 4.4 seconds remaining while Tunisia held a 66-63 lead.
“Despite the obvious contact by Tunisian big man Mokhtar Ghyaza on Abando, the referees failed to call a foul, effectively sealing Tunisia’s victory and ending our championship hopes,” the SGA-Pilipinas said.
“As competitors, we respect the game and its governing principles. However, fairness and accountability are fundamental in maintaining the integrity of international basketball,” it added.
SGA-Pilipinas also expressed gratitude to their supporters and reassured them that, despite this disappointing outcome, they remain committed to representing the nation with pride on the international stage.
Meanwhile, Beirut First Sports Club of Lebanon emerged as champions after an 80-72 victory over Tunisia in the gold medal match, while UAE national team was awarded with the bronze medal./PN