Strong Group brings in 7-foot-4 former NBA veteran Boban Marjanovic as it seeks to become the first team in 15 years to win three consecutive Jones Cup titles
MANILA, Philippines – Strong Group means business in its quest to rule the William Jones Cup for the third straight year.
And it shows in its latest signing as the team secured the services of former NBA veteran Boban Marjanovic, Strong Group announced on Friday, July 24.
The 7-foot-4 Serbian giant is the first player confirmed to see action for Strong Group, which seeks to become the first team in 15 years to win three consecutive Jones Cup championships.
“Excited on getting Boban to agree to play for us. We’ve been having some good talks, he’s in shape and serious about this tournament, he’s preparing back home even before he flies out here,” said longtime Strong Group coach Charles Tiu.
“We’ve already talked a bit about basketball and our plans. Great and funny guy, too.”
Marjanovic spent nine seasons in the NBA, suiting up for the San Antonio Spurs, Detroit Pistons, Los Angeles Clippers, Philadelphia 76ers, Dallas Mavericks, and Houston Rockets.
He owns NBA career averages of 5.5 points and 3.6 rebounds.
One of the best players in Europe at the peak of his powers, Marjanovic earned All-EuroLeague First Team honors in 2015 and won the Serbian League MVP award in 2013, 2014, and 2015.
Marjanovic also represented Serbia in multiple international competitions, including the 2019 FIBA World Cup in China.
After he played his last NBA game in 2024, Marjanovic has reinforced teams from Turkey, China, Slovenia, and now, the Philippines.
“We’re building the best team possible because we know this will be the toughest William Jones Cup yet,” said Strong Group president Jacob Lao.
Strong Group reigned in the 2024 and 2025 editions by beating Chinese Taipei Blue in the finals in both occasions.
The last team to complete a Jones Cup three-peat was Iran, which won in 2009, 2010, and 2011. – Rappler.com
