Lebanon won the men's title and Syria took the women's title at the first West Asia basketball championship for the under-14 age category, organized by the West Asia Basketball Federation and hosted successfully by the Lebanese Federation at the "President Michel Suleiman Complex" in Byblos. The Secretary-General of the West Asia Federation, Charbel Michel Rizk, oversaw the organizational and administrative matters and supported the championship "on the ground" throughout the competition days, ensuring its success.
The championship was sponsored by "Sport Expert." The closing day was well-attended, with the presence of the first vice-president of the Asian Basketball Federation and the president of the Lebanese Federation, Akram Halabi, along with members of the federation, the secretary-general of the continental federation, Hagop Khatcharian, dignitaries from the West Asia Federation, club presidents and members, the Lebanese basketball family, and parents of the players.
In the men’s final, Lebanon defeated Syria with a score of (72-45). The Lebanese team dominated the match early on, significantly outperforming their opponents, and managed to control the game from the second quarter onward, executing the strategies of their skilled coach, George Sleibi. Lebanon had previously defeated Syria in the group stage (83-74), but Saturday's match was different due to Sleibi's successful tactical adjustments and the mental, physical, and technical preparation of his players alongside the coaching staff. The Lebanese team showcased considerable talent and potential for a promising future.
In the women's final, Syria secured the title by winning against Lebanon (49-38). It is worth noting that the Lebanese women had won against Syria by a single basket in the group stage. After closely contested first and second quarters, the Syrian players excelled over the Lebanese team in the third and fourth quarters to claim the championship trophy.
In conclusion, the distinguished attendees awarded the winning teams amidst a celebratory atmosphere. Notably, this was the first time the West Asia region hosted a championship for the under-14 age group, with a future plan for an under-12 championship aimed at developing the promising youth in the region.
