Strong Group demolishes semis-bound Chinese Taipei Blue in 2026 Jones Cup

Strong Group Pilipinas made its presence felt in the 2026 Jones Cup, taking down semis-bound Chinese Taipei Blue, 117-74, on Thursday in New Taipei City.

The Philippine representative pulled away in the second quarter, taking a 54-34 lead at halftime before exploding for 38 points in the third period while limiting Chinese Taipei to just 14 points.

Chinese Taipei tried to claw its way back in the fourth quarter, but Strong Group held off the rally to secure the victory.

Isaiah Piñeiro had 22 points, 13 rebounds, and five assists, while Remy Martin had 19 points. Matthew Wright had 18 points, while Titing Manalili added 13 points. Boban Marjanovic, meanwhile, had 12 points, six rebounds, three blocks, and a steal.

With the win, Strong Group finished the group stage with a 5-1 record, good for second place in Group A behind Korea’s Wonju DB.

However, a clause guaranteeing Chinese Taipei Blue a spot in the semifinals means Strong Group will instead play in the fifth-place game against Jordan.

Chinese Taipei, which finished the group stage with a 1-5 record, will advance to the semifinals despite its record.

—JKC, GMA News