Tiu: Temper Mighty Sports’ expectations for Dubai

MANILA, Philippines – Mighty Sports is heading into the Dubai International Basketball Tournament with tempered expectations. 

Head coach Charles Tiu wishes he had at least one more week to prepare for the tourney that starts tomorrow.

“I'm concerned about our lack of preparation,” Tiu admitted. 

“There are still so many things I want to add and teach but we just don't have the time. So, we had to really simplify things. Players are still adjusting to one another and haven’t really gelled.” He said.

Included in the Mighty Sports lineup is former NBA star Lamar Odom, Barangay Ginebra import Justin Brownlee, Randolph Morris, who has played in the Chinese Basketball Association, local stars such as Juan Gomez De Liaño, Gab Banal, Santi Santillan, Jett Manuel; and Fil-Americans Jason Brickman, Jeremiah Gray, and Roosevelt Adams.

Regarding Odom, Tiu has been all praises. 

“Lamar has been a good teammate and player above all. He listens to us. He does what we ask of him without any complaints. He is a true professional. It's a privilege to be coaching a guy like him who has accomplished so much. He's been good for us with Mighty and he's been just one of the guys.” He said.

“This tournament will be very tough for us,” Tiu said, who will be joined by TY Tang, Jong Uichico, Woody Co, and Dean Castaño in the Mighty Sports coaching staff. 

“This year, the lineups are stacked and more teams are joining. The Jordan National Team is coming as they prepare for their Fiba games. The Lebanese teams are always tough with their good imports, and then of course Sala of Morocco.” Tiu said.

While Mighty Sports has had good games – including one where Odom hit a game-winning shot in a tune-up against PBA squad, Magnolia, 98-97 – Tiu remains cautious. 

“I don't really have one moment that stands out in training - we've only had five practices and two practice games! But there are flashes of brilliance every practice which makes me wonder what could be and how good this team can be - the potential - if only we had at least another week.” He said.