Mighty Sports Phl opens bid vs Al Ahli

DUBAI – Mighty Sports-Philippines kicks off its campaign in the tough Dubai International basketball tournament today with young stars Kiefer Ravena and Jeron Teng hoping to show their worth against host Al Ahli at Dubai’s premier sports club.

Though he has to share minutes with PBA veterans like Gary David, JC Intal, Ryan Araña and import Justin Brownlee, the 6-foot-2 Teng vowed to give it his best shot if given a chance.

“This is my first big tournament since the UAAP finals, so I will try to take this opportunity to show what can I do,” said the former King Archer who intends to turn pro before the end of the year.

Same thing for Ravena, looking so inspired after visiting volleyball star and girlfriend Alyssa Valdez in Bangkok.

Backed by Rain or Shine and Scratch It, the team held its first complete practice yesterday after arriving from a nine-hour flight from Manila.

Since it was only a light workout, Mighty Sports coach Charles Tiu said they will have their first full practice early today before facing Al Ahli.

“We will be up against the host squad so we will prepare hard for it,” said Tiu, who will be assisted by veteran Bo Perasol of University of the Philippines. “”We have to be at our very best if we are to hurdle our first test.”

Aside from Ravena and Teng, focus will also be on 7-foot-3 import Hasheem Thabeet.

Other members of the team are Jett Manuel, Chris Tiu, Beau Belga, Willie Miller, Gab Banal and naturalized Marcus Douthit.

Mighty Sports is hoping to win its second international glory after completing an eight-game sweep of the Jones Cup in Taiwan last year.