Strong Group has tapped the services of MPBL Most Valuable Player Justine Baltazar for the upcoming 33rd Dubai International Basketball Championship in the United Arab Emirates.

With a solid lineup that includes former NBA star Dwight Howard, ex-Gilas center Andray Blatche, and G League standout Andre Roberson, Baltazar is expected to provide additional ceiling for the Philippine representatives in his second tour of duty in the Dubai tilt.

The 26-year-old slotman will join the local cast that features De La Salle's Kevin Quiambao and Francis Escandor alongside JD Cagulangan, Justin Sanchez, Tony Ynot and Allen Liwag.

The tournament is set from Jan. 19 to 28.

Charles Tiu is the head coach, while UAAP champion coach Topex Robinson and former Bay Area tactician Brian Goorjian serve as assistants.

Baltazar posted 17.4 points, 16.9 rebounds, 4.4 assists, and 1.2 blocks in his MVP season for the Pampanga Lanterns, who swept the Bacoor Strikers in the 2023 MPBL Finals.