DAVE Ildefonso is the last - but most definitely, not the least - addition to Strong Group-Pilipinas for the upcoming 43rd William Jones Cup from July 13 to 21 in Taipei, Taiwan.
Ildefonso's addition completes a formidable lineup that already includes Kiefer Ravena, Angelo Kouame, Rhenz Abando, Jordan Heading, and RJ Abarrientos.
Ildefonso brings with him a wealth of experience, having spent the past two years competing in the Korean Basketball League with Suwon KT.
"My top priority in joining SGA is to help the team - which is being handled by one of my friends in Ateneo, Jacob (Lao) - win the championship in any way possible," said the 24-year-old who played 44 games with the Sonicboom.
"Representing the country is always a privilege, and I intend to make the most of an opportunity like this."
Reunited and it feels so good
Ildefonso expressed particular excitement about reuniting with Kouame, his former teammate during the Blue Eagles' dynastic UAAP run in the past years.
"I'm really excited to be on the same team with Ange again," Ildefonso remarked. "I know what he can bring to the team and how valuable he is as a player. He'll definitely have a big role to play for SGA."
This tournament also marks a reunion between Ildefonso and Strong Group head coach Charles Tiu, who previously coached him during the FIBA Under-19 World Cup in 2019 and the Dubai International Basketball Tournament in 2020 under the Mighty Sports banner.
"I've always been a fan of Dave's game," commented Tiu. "I'm looking forward to seeing the improvement in his game from his time abroad. Hopefully, we can help boost his confidence for his next career step."
Also part of the Philippine representatives are DJ Fenner, Chris McCollough, Caelan Tiongson, and Tajuan Agee, along with young guns Jonathan Manalili, Allen Liwag, and Tony Ynot.
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