Former Los Angeles Laker Lamar Odom is all set for Mighty Sports’ upcoming campaign in the Dubai Invitational Basketball Tournament.
Meanwhile, team owner Caesar Wongchuking is seeking the services of strong imports and local talent to reinforce the quest for redemption this February 2019.
Ginebra import Justin Brownlee, UP standout Juan Gomez de Liano, La Salle’s Santi Santillan, Gab Banal and former PBA star Joseph Yeo are some of the names seen to gear up with Odom for Dubai.
This marks the second time Mighty Sports will compete in the prestigious Middle East tournament after playing two years ago where they bowed out in the early rounds.
Wongchuking said he is also hoping to tap other NBA veterans to elevate their title bid. He added that they are seeking additional star power to the team because they have a huge fanbase in Dubai.
Team coach Charles Tiu also said Beijing Ducks’ 6-foot-11 center Randolph Morris was tapped to play for Mighty Sports.
Odom is scheduled to arrive in January, in time for the preparations for the tournament.
His inclusion to the team is also seen by pundits as one step forward in his pursuit to return to professional basketball, particularly Ice Cube’s BIG3 tournament composed of former NBA players.
Odom himself was the first to personally announce his return to basketball through social media, expressing his gratitude to player agent Sheryl Reyes and coach Tiu. He also conveyed excitement to be given an opportunity to gear up for the Philippines in the Dubai tournament.
The 39-year-old Odom made big waves in his stint with the Lakers where he was a pivotal piece alongside superstar Kobe Bryant to win the championships in 2009 and 2010. He also represented his home country during the 2004 Olympics and the 2010 FIBA World Championship.
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