(UPDATE) FORMER NBA star DeMarcus Cousins said that it feels great to have returned to Manila and play for another Philippine club in the Strong Group Athletics (SGA), which will compete at the Dubai International Basketball Tournament slated from Jan. 24 to Feb. 2.
Cousins and the rest of the team held practice and media sessions at the Gatorade Hoops Center in Mandaluyong on Sunday.
"It feels great to be back. Same supporters last time, same love," said Cousins, who helped lead Philippine club Zamboanga Valientes to a title sweep of The Asian Tournament in Zamboanga City last August.
"I feel that same energy. I've had more time this time in Manila, so I've really got to, well, not really get out, but I'm getting more opportunity to get out, so I'm excited for that. It's hot, just like last time. So, that didn't change, but overall, I'm happy to be back. I've enjoyed the experience so far."
Cousins, who teams up with former NBA star Dwight Howard and former Gilas naturalized player Andray Blatche, said that SGA's training has been going smoothly so far.
"We've come here, we've competed for the last three or four days. We've gotten better with each day," said Cousins, who also joined forces with local stars Rhenz Abando, Mikey Williams, and Dave Ildefonso in a team headed by coach Charles Tiu.
"Our intentions and goals are to win the championship and be fine. We're working towards that. We're learning quickly. The chemistry is coming along greatly. The camaraderie is coming along greatly."
The 6-foot-10 Cousins hopes that Filipinos in Dubai come out and support SGA as he seeks to put on a show.
"I hope you guys come out and support us. I hope I can put on a show for everybody that comes out and supports me. I hope you have some type of experience," said Cousins.
After the Dubai tournament, is Cousins open to playing in the PBA?
"I'm a businessman, if it makes sense, absolutely," he said.