The 19th annual Rumph Classic ended with a dominant performance by Team F.O.E. as they mercy-ruled Rumph Center 110-87, becoming five-time Rumph Classic Champions.
Leading the charge for the new champions was former Miami Hurricane, Isaiah Wong. The Pacers guard poured in many effortless buckets finishing the night with 31 points.
Rumph legend Marcus Morris knocked down the first shot for F.O.E, but Wong followed that up with several made shots himself. Once the first one went in, he knew the type of night it was going to be.
“All I want is to see is the ball go in,” Wong said. “Once I do that it’s going to be a long night.”
Wong used his lightning quickness, tight handles and strong finishing ability to get whatever he wanted Monday night. He repeatedly wowed the crowd and looked unguarded at times. He drew many ohs-and-ahs throughout the game, especially after a monster 360-dunk in the first half.
His flashy play style contrasts with the tough nature of the Rumph, but he was up for the challenge.
“When I was playing in the G-league it was tough,” Wong said. “Everyone plays with the same grit over here… I felt like it was my nature coming in here.”
Coming into this year’s Rumph, Wong never participated in the tournament. While he’s known about the league, watching highlights from Instagram Reels for a few years, Wong never got the chance to actually participate.
It was only by chance that Wong suited up. He was in the city from Aug. 1-6 and it just so happened that the tournament was scheduled for those dates. Wong got the call and couldn’t pass up on the opportunity.
Wong’s first Rumph was a success. From the on-court results to his overall experience, it’s safe to say he enjoyed playing this year.
“I know Philly is known for its basketball,” Wong said. “They really showed out… it’s exactly what I expected and I love being here.”
