The NLEX Road Warriors arrived in Dubai Wednesday evening as they shift their preparations for the PBA Commissioner’s Cup to high gear.
NLEX has been tapped as the lone Philippine representative to the prestigious Dubai International Basketball Championship which runs from January 15 to 24.
Nine teams are entered in the tournament with the Road Warriors in Group A along with the UAE national team, Riyadi (Lebanon), Zamalek (Egypt), and Ittihad (Libya). In Group B are Sagesse (Lebanon), Al Shabab (UAE), Sale and And1 (USA).
The Road Warriors plunge into action on Friday, playing the tall and hefty Ittihad squad in the last game of a tripleheader. On Saturday, the Filipinos take on tough Riyadi. After a break on Sunday, NLEX battles the UAE national team on Monday before winding up the elims against Zamalek on Tuesday.
The top four teams in each group then meet in the crossover quarterfinals on Thursday, January 22. The semifinals and the championship game will be played in the next two days.
Headed by team manager Ronald Dulatre and head coach Boyet Fernandez, the Road Warriors were met at the Dubai International Airport by Mohamed Wagdi, the Tournament Marketing Manager and Filipino liaison officer Edwin Deang. The team was personally assisted by Ali Dadi, Dubai Airport manager.
The team will be staying at Asiana Hotel for the duration of the tournament. (JL)
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