Latest news with #AlaaMudara


Daily Tribune
5 days ago
- Sport
- Daily Tribune
William Jones Cup kicks off
TDT | Manama The 44th William Jones Cup begins tomorrow in Chinese Taipei, running until July 20. Bahrain's senior men's basketball team is set to compete against nine top Asian teams. Bahrain will face tough competition including Japan, Australia, Malaysia, the UAE, and hosts Chinese Taipei. Also in the mix are Chinese Taipei's development squad, Qatar's B team, and defending champions Strong Group Athletics from the Philippines. From Paint to Presidency For Bahrain Basketball Association President Alaa Mudara, the William Jones Cup is a vital step in a long-term plan. 'This competition offers a different intensity from what we face in the Gulf, and that challenge is exactly what we need to prepare for the Arab Cup in Tunisia.' Mudara brings personal history to the moment, having represented Bahrain in the 1978 William Jones Cup as a player. 'That year, we were named best team of the tournament,' he recalled. 'Now, returning as president, I see the same hunger in this generation.' The Squad Greek coach Georgios Vovoras has named a near fullstrength roster. Key players include guards Mustafa Hussain and Ahmed Salman, forwards Mohammed Ameer, Subah Hussain, Mohammed Buallay, Ali Jaber, and naturalised stars Wayne Chism and JaKarr Sampson. The squad is completed by Mahmood Abbas, Ali Hussain, Ahmed bin Deina, and Abdulqader Thani. The William Jones Cup is a prestigious Asian tournament organised by the Chinese Taipei Basketball Association. Many teams use it as a warmup for the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 in Jeddah next month. Tough Road Ahead Bahrain opens tomorrow against continental powerhouse Japan, followed by games against Chinese Taipei's development team, Malaysia, Australia, the UAE, Qatar's B team, Chinese Taipei's national team, and Strong Group Athletics. The team has prepared with local training sessions and won two recent friendlies against the UAE at Khalifa Sports City Arena.


Daily Tribune
01-06-2025
- Sport
- Daily Tribune
Streetball Lights Up Bahrain
TDT | Manama Bahrain's basketball fans are in for a treat this June as the Bahrain 3x3 Summer Tour hits the court, bringing exciting half-court action to the kingdom. Sanctioned by FIBA, the global basketball authority, the debut tournament marks another leap forward for the sport locally. The winners will secure a place in the FIBA Challenger series—an international springboard. Game On for All Teams of four can sign up from clubs, universities, companies, or community groups, making the tour as inclusive as it is competitive. Whether players are pros or passionate amateurs, this is a chance to step into the spotlight. A Smart Play for Growth The Bahrain Basketball Association (BBA) is tapping into the global momentum of 3x3 basketball—fast, accessible, and Olympic-recognised. By establishing the Summer Tour as a fixture on the calendar, the BBA hopes to fuel participation, boost the sport's profile, and discover new talent ready for the world stage. Mudara's Vision for the Future BBA president Alaa Mudara sees big potential in the format. 'The 3x3 Summer Tour is about building a basketball future for Bahrain,' he said. 'We want to grow this game, find new stars, and give players a pathway to compete internationally.' With FIBA's backing, the event carries serious weight. It's a proving ground for talent—and a launchpad for bigger opportunities. Courts Set, Spotlight On As the tournament tips off, expect tightly contested games and breakout performances. Bahrain's basketball culture is turning up the volume. Key takeaways: Did You Know? 3x3's Olympic status drives Bahrain's basketball surge, inspiring the BBA's Summer Tour.