Ex-Lakers star forward Lamar Odom will arrive in Manila tomorrow, Wednesday, 23 January, in time for the Mighty Sports-Philippines first official team practice for the upcoming 30th Dubai International Basketball Championship.
He addressed fans ass seen in player agent Sheryl Reyes’ Instagram post. “I’m on my way to the Philippines. Can’t wait to meet you guys in person,” said Odom.
View this post on Instagram
#teamreyes @lamarodom on his way to the philippines for @mightysports_ph
A post shared by Sheryl Sanchez Reyes ? (@femaleagentsr) on
Head coach Charles Tiu commented he expects to see both Odom and Justin Brownlee, who just returned to the country yesterday, in top form for the Dubai tourney.
“That’s what I’m wishing for once I see them on Wednesday as they’ll be up against teams who have been playing together for years. We have little time to prepare,” said Tiu. “Given the situation and toughness of the competition, there’s a possibility that they will play extended minutes on the floor.”
The first official team practice is scheduled to take place on Thursday. Team owner Alexander Wongchuking said the team will practice almost every day.
“It’s important that everybody has enough stamina because we will be playing against some of the best teams in the Middle East including Lebanon, Jordan and reigning champs Tunisia,” Wongchuking said.
Joining Odom and Brownlee are Randolph Morris, Jeremiah Gray, Roosevelt Adams, Joseph Yeo, Gab Banal, Juan Gomez de Liano, Santi Santillan, Justin Gutang, Troy Rike and Jett Manuel.
Veteran multi-titled coach Jong Uichico will be assistant for Tiu along with Woody Co.
Mighty Sports-Philippines is backed by SMDC, Go For Gold, Healthcube and Oriental Group.