Mighty Sports-Philippines pushed the tempo early on to notch a blowout victory over American University in Dubai (AUD), 87-58, for their opening bout in the 30th Dubai International Basketball Championship.
It was a one-sided affair from the get go as the Philippine squad shot consistently the entire game with import Randolph Morris initiating the early attack with 14 points and 5 blocks.
Justin Brownlee saw 19 minutes of action to lead all players with 17 points and 6 rebounds while former Ginebra guard Jett Manuel chipped in 12 points to help the team.
The game also marked Lamar Odom’s official return to professional basketball drawing cheers from the crowd while adding 4 points and 7 rebounds.
Mighty shot consistently in the opening half leading to a 27-point lead by halftime over the home team, 47-20.
AUD failed to capitalize on the pivotal third period as Mighty pumped up the defense limiting their opponent to just 11 points.
The Alex Wongchuking-owned squad continued their salvo in the third period to push the lead by as much as 35 points, 60-25.
Fil-Am Jeremiah Gray impressed scouts by finishing with 17 points on 7-of-9 shooting and adding 2 blocks.
Mahmoud Trab led home team AUD with 20 points and 7 rebounds.
In less than 24 hours, Mighty Sports will face a tougher opponent in the UAE national team on Saturday, February 2, 11:00PM (Philippine time).
Mighty Sports is backed by Oriental Group, Go For Gold, Healthcube and SMDC.
