Mighty Sports one step closer to Jones Cup title after tough win against Korea

“We are a team and a family. Don’t often find a team that has no egos and guys who are willing to sacrifice for one another. We were able to form a great team. It’s been a great run so far. Honored to be coaching these guys.” (Photo: @charlestiu/Instagram)

Team Mighty Sports-Go for Gold Philippines continues their undefeated winning streak at the 41st William Jones Cup, defeating one of the best teams in the league, South Korea, 89-82, last Tuesday, July 16 at the Changhua County Gym in New Taipei City.

The Philippine representatives were led by their five imports, with Renaldo Balkman topping the statistics at 19 points and eight rebounds.

Mackenzie Moore scored 17, while Zack Graham totalled points.

Eugene Phelps chipped 14. The country’s representatives overcame their opponents’ 15-point lead in the second quarter. 

For South Korea, it was naturalized player Guna Ra, commonly known as Ricardo Ratliffe, who kept the scoreboard high for his team as he had a double-double of 24 points and 20 rebounds. Teammate Junyong Choi added 14, while Lee Junghyun and Lee Daesung each gave 11.

Team Philippines will look to continue their winning streak next Friday, July 19, as they face the Indonesians at the same venue. For the Jones Cup, there are no playoffs, so the team with the best win-loss record will be hailed champions. With this loss against the Filipinos, the Koreans are now at a 4-1 win-loss standing, facing Team Japan on Friday and Team Taiwan on Sunday.

Despite their successful run so far, Mighty Sports head coach Charles Tiu told the media post-game that they still have a long way to go for the top trophy, sharing, “We still have three more games, so anything can happen.

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With their upcoming game being crucial in securing the championship, Coach Charles added, “That’s the other important match for us so we can’t celebrate yet this time. We have to come out fresh and play our usual game. There will be no let-up.”

In the meantime, Mighty Sports owner Alex Wongchuking is “so impressed with the coaching and team chemistry [of his team],  much so the leadership of Renaldo Balkman,” stating, “With coach Charles and Renaldo at the helm, the team is playing well.”