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Qatar Tribune
2 days ago
- Sport
- Qatar Tribune
QBF approves 2025-26 season agenda, new system for men's league
Tribune News Network Doha The Board of Directors of the Qatar Basketball Federation (QBF) approved the programme for 2025-26 season besides a new system for the men's league during the second meeting held at the federation's headquarters on Wednesday. The meeting was presided over by QBF President Mohammed bin Saad Al Mughaiseeb and attended by Saadoun Sabah Al Kuwari, QBF Secretary General, and Ahmed Yousef Mohammed Mubarak Al Darwish, QBF Assistant-Secretary. The meeting also featured board members: Abdullah Sultan Al Jaber, Abdulrahman Hamad Mohammed Al Mana, Mishaal Abdullah Yousef Al Malki, and Zahra Majed Burhan Al Zaidan, the sole female member on the board. Mohammed bin Saad Al Mughaiseeb expressed his gratitude and appreciation to the board members for their significant contributions during the 2024-25 sports season. Several critical topics were discussed during the meeting, particularly the approval of the agenda for the upcoming 2025-26 season, a detailed presentation of the national teams' forthcoming foreign participation schedule, and a dialogue regarding the implementation of the strategic plans previously established by the Federation to enhance the game, broaden its reach, and improve its visibility both locally and internationally. The federation approved several vital decisions, including the discussion and endorsement of the Competitions Committee's recommendations and the establishment of the calendar and activities for the forthcoming season. Additionally, the federation introduced new modifications to the men's league competition considering the unique characteristics of the impending phase as Qatar prepares to host the prestigious 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup, which is set to take place for the first time in the Middle East and North Africa region from August 27 to September 12, 2027. The new men's league system is set to be implemented across all clubs associated with QBF in the near future. As per the sanctioned schedule, the men's general basketball league is scheduled to take place from October 25, 2025, to February 16, 2026. The initial round of matches will be held between October 25 and December 25, 2025, while the subsequent round of matches to take place from December 31, 2025, to January 29, 2026. The semi-finals are planned for February 5 to 9, 2026, and the final round is slated from February 12 to 16, 2026. Following this, the Qatar Cup for men will commence from February 23 and continue till March 9, 2026. The principal men's tournaments will conclude with Amir Cup, scheduled from March 26 to April 23, 2026. The Under-19 league is set to run from September 15, 2025, to May 28, 2026. It will consist of two segments: the first from September 15 to December 1, 2025, and the second from January 20 to May 28, 2026. The U-19 Qatar Cup is scheduled for May 4 to 27, 2026. The league for Under-16 will take place from September 14, 2025, to May 26, 2026, and will also be divided into two segments: the first from September 14 to November 30, 2025, and the second from January 18 to May 26, 2026. The Qatar Cup is scheduled to take place from May 3 to May 26, 2026, while the Qatar Cup for Under-16 will be from March 30 to May 23, 2026. The U-14 league's first section will be held from September 13 to November 29, 2025, whereas the matches for the second division will be held from January 17 to April 25, 2026. Additionally, the Qatar U-14 Cup is planned for May 2 to May 25, 2026. The seasonal agenda further encompasses the organization of sports festivals aimed at younger age groups, specifically Under-9 and Under-12, from November 1, 2025, to May 16, 2026. This initiative is part of the association's commitment to fostering a culture of the game from an early age. As for women's basketball, it was decided to conduct festivals for girls from January 17 to February 10, 2026. The Under-15 Girls League is scheduled from January 16 to May 25, 2026, and the Under-18 Girls League will take place during the same time. The Women's General League is also set to be held from January 17 to May 25, 2026. At the end of its meeting, QBF reiterated its unwavering dedication to executing its development plans and annual calendar in alignment with the highest organizational standards. The commitment aims to fulfill the aspirations of the Qatari basketball community and to enhance the preparedness of national teams and clubs for forthcoming local and international events, particularly the hosting of 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup.


Qatar Tribune
04-06-2025
- Sport
- Qatar Tribune
More than just a game: Jr. NBA and Jr. WNBA Qatar League matches empower local youth
Tribune News Network Doha The second season of the Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA Qatar League has come to a thrilling close, helping students from across the country to grow their basketball skills while building key skills and values such as teamwork, sportsmanship, leadership, and resilience. This year's league—organised by Qatar Foundation (QF) in collaboration with the NBA, and supported by the Qatar Basketball Federation (QBF)—featured 68 teams, each representing an NBA team, across four categories and welcomed more than 1,000 students, doubling participation from its first season. The U12 Girls title was claimed by the Qatar Basketball Federation (Philadelphia 76ers), with Pro Sports (Brooklyn Nets), finishing in second place. In the U12 Boys category, the Movement Camp (Minnesota Timberwolves), were crowned champions, while QF Awsaj (Indiana Pacers) took second place. The U14 Girls champions were the Qatar Basketball Federation (San Antonio Spurs), with QF Awsaj (Minnesota Timberwolves) securing second. In the U14 Boys division, the Qatar Basketball Federation (Dallas Mavericks) claimed the title, with Evolution Sports (Orlando Magic) taking home second place. All basketball action took place across two venues: QF's Multaqa (Education City Student Centre) and the QBF. Kholoud M. Al-Ali, executive director of Community Engagement and Programming at Qatar Foundation Communication Initiatives, said: 'The growth of the Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA Qatar League this year has been truly inspiring, with participation more than doubling since last season. This reflects the increasing passion for basketball among our youth. 'Every match has showcased not only excitement and teamwork, but also a deep love for the game. Seeing the enthusiasm and dedication of these young athletes is a powerful reminder of how sport can unite communities and inspire future generations. 'At Qatar Foundation, our commitment to youth development extends beyond the realm of sport – through every game and every play, we strive to empower young people. Bringing the league back to Education City through this partnership for a second year is more than a milestone – it is an opportunity to build character, instil values, and cultivate leaders. We are not just shaping athletes; we are shaping the future of Qatar and the wider region, inspiring a generation to drive meaningful, lasting change.' Mohammed Saad A A Al-Meghaiseeb, president, Qatar Basketball Federation, said: 'One year ago, I made a promise as President of Qatar Basketball Federation, that the second season of the Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA Qatar League would be even better. We worked hard with Qatar Foundation, and we delivered a great event. 'QBF and Qatar Foundation are focusing to develop the game of basketball in the country. The Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA Qatar League gave the chance to young boys and girls to compete, play, enjoy the most beautiful game, and develop their skills. 'Qatar will host the FIBA Basketball World Cup in 2027, and we firmly believe that with programs like the Jr. NBA, we can bring more young people to basketball. 'Together with Qatar Foundation, we promise that the next year will be even more successful. Congratulations to all the participants, players, and their families.' Maryam Hamad M A Al-Qahtani is a student at Tariq Bin Ziad School, part of QF's Pre-University Education, who plays for the Qatar Basketball Federation.'I started playing basketball about a year ago through my school team,' she said. 'From the very first moment, I felt something special about the game. The energy, the challenge, the movement, and the team spirit. 'What I love most about basketball is the teamwork. Every player has a role, and every pass is built on trust and understanding. It's a sport that teaches patience, discipline, and quick decision-making, all of which help me grow, both on and off the court. 'The best part of playing in the Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA League was gaining experience every match, every training session helped me improve. But the moment I'll never forget was the feeling of winning an important game and sharing that victory with my coach, Rana, who played a big role in supporting me and helping me grow throughout the tournament. 'I've learned that confidence and discipline are just as important as talent. Every game was a chance to learn something new. Mistakes are not failures – they're lessons.''


Qatar Tribune
29-05-2025
- Sport
- Qatar Tribune
3x3 Youth Nations League: Qatar runners-up in second stage
Tribune News Network Doha The Qatar national basketball team put up a strong showing in the second stage of the 3x3 U23 Basketball Nations League - Asia-Pacific, organized by the Qatar Basketball Association and being heldfrom May 28 to June 3, with the participation of elite international teams in both the men's and women's categories. Twelve teams are participating in the tournament, including six men's and six women's teams: Qatar (host), New Zealand, Singapore, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Chinese Taipei. On Thursday, Qatar began their second-round campaign with a 21-19 victory over the Philippines and a 21-6 victory over Indonesia in Group A. Meanwhile, New Zealand defeated Chinese Taipei 21-10 and Singapore 21-11 in Group B, advanced to the second-round final. Qatar narrowly lost to New Zealand 16-17. The Qatari team thus collected 160 points, while New Zealand reached 200 points, having defeated Qatar 12-21 in the first round. The Qatari men's team consists of Hamad Yassin Ismail Musa, Zainuddin Badri, Nizar Mahmoud, Ahmed Saeed Mohammed, and Mubarak Jama. Professor Mohammed Najeeb, Elite Motors Sales Manager, crowned the New Zealand team as the champions of the second round. In the women's competition, Philippines took the first place defeating Chinese Taipei in the final 20-13. The winner collected 200 points, while the loser collected 160 points. Ahmed Youssef Mohammed Mubarak Al-Darwish, Assistant Secretary of the Qatar Basketball Association, crowned Philippines national team as champions of the second round. The Qatar women's national team in the second round, lost to the Philippines, 21-4, and to Singapore, 21-6, in Group A matches. The Qatari women's team consists of: Salha Ismail, Mona Abdel Moneim, Sama Jasser, and Lamees Jamal. The third-round matches of the FIBA U23 3x3 Nations League - Asia-Pacific will be held on Friday. The tournament is part of the promotional activities accompanying Qatar's hosting of the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup, as part of the Qatar Basketball Association's commitment to intensifying quality events and enhancing the global presence of basketball in Qatar. The tournament is being held in cooperation with and under the supervision of the International Basketball Federation (FIBA). The current edition serves as a qualifying round for the FIBA U23 3x3 Basketball World Cup, with the men's and women's champions and the top scorers qualifying for the tournament, which will be held in Xiong'an, China, from September 17 to 21. The Nations League was launched in 2017 as a development program for men and women under 23 to hone their skills in preparation for the open category.
Yahoo
28-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
"I think we start speaking on him in another light" - KG on what a ring could mean for Edwards or Haliburton
Tyrese Haliburton of the Indiana Pacers and Anthony Edwards of the Minnesota Timberwolves are some of the brightest young NBA stars today. However, one of them could be the talk of the town soon, especially if they become a champion at the season's end. Edwards has been making waves in the NBA, but recognition as one of the top stars is still lacking. According to NBA legend Kevin Garnett, that should all change if the Timberwolves guard can lead his team to a title. Advertisement "I think that if Anthony Edwards is somehow, someway figures this out and be able to get Minnesota its first championship, I think it takes him to another…I think we start speaking on him in another light," Garnett said about Edwards on "KG Certified." "The Big Ticket" offered the same take on Haliburton. Already impressed with the level of play of the 12th overall pick of the 2020 Draft, Tyrese could be ranked among the top stars if he managed to lead Indiana to the championship. "Haliburton is not in that huge market. Edwards is not in that huge market either. But he's so vibrant that he's top-tier. If anybody can come out of this on top, and let's just say it's Indiana, Haliburton becomes that deal," KG pointed out. Edwards and Haliburton earned rare recognition in 2024 Ironically, there is one thing that Anthony and Tyrese share that most may have overlooked. Both were part of the 2024 Team USA that won the gold in the Paris Olympics, being the only players retained from the disappointing squad that finished fourth in the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup. Advertisement Considering the U.S. team had LeBron James, Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant, most overlooked these two young stars. However, it was a testament that their skills were recognized, and now they are showing why. Haliburton has come into his own with the Pacers. He has been the spark for Rick Carlisle thus far, and if he and the Pacers stay the course, they could be representing the Eastern Conference in the Finals. So far, the Pacers hold a 2-1 lead in the Eastern Conference Finals over the New York Knicks. Those two wins were collected at Madison Square Garden, and two more victories would push them to the grand stage. Related: "I just got tired of hearing it and just thought it was best for me to move on" - Patrick Ewing admits he regrets leaving the Knicks out of spite "Ant-Man's" chances are dimming out West Sadly, the same cannot be said for Edwards and the Timberwolves. They dropped their first two games to the surging Oklahoma City Thunder but managed to take Game 3 to avoid a huge hole. Advertisement After a dismal Game 1, Ant made up for his poor performance with a couple of 30+ performances. However, with his teammates failing to step up or provide support, the top pick of the 2020 Draft will have to do more to push the T-Wolves to the Finals. Although nothing is set, seeing a final featuring the Pacers and the Timberwolves would be something special and unexpected. It would be a battle featuring some of the top American young stars of today, something that would catapult their respective basketball careers to the next level. Related: "He shot that bi*ch from Yucatan" - Tyrese Haliburton and Paul George share hilarious Anthony Edwards stories


Qatar Tribune
27-05-2025
- Sport
- Qatar Tribune
U-23 3x3 World Basketball in Doha from today
Tribune News Network Doha The Qatar Basketball Federation (QBF) will host the U-23 3x3 World Basketball Championship from May 28 to June 3 at the Al Gharafa Hall. The event features elite international teams competing in both men's and women's categories. This tournament is part of the promotional initiatives associated with Qatar's hosting of the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup, reflecting the QBA's dedication to enhancing the quality of events and boosting the global visibility of basketball in Qatar. The tournament is being conducted in collaboration with and under the oversight of the International Basketball Federation (FIBA). A total of twelve teams will participate in the tournament, comprising six men's teams and six women's teams: Qatar (hosts), New Zealand, Singapore, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Chinese Taipei. The teams have been divided into two groups within each category (men's and women's), with each group consisting of three teams, thereby providing a robust competitive atmosphere and ensuring high-caliber matches. The Qatar U-23 team is placed in Group B alongside Singapore and Chinese Taipei, while Group A features New Zealand, the Philippines, and Indonesia. The U-23 women's team has been assigned to Group A with New Zealand and the Philippines, whereas Group B consists of Singapore, Chinese Taipei, and Indonesia. On the inaugural day, Wednesday, the group stage matches will commence, with Qatar scheduled to compete against Chinese Taipei at 3:45pm and Singapore at 7:15pm. Meanwhile, the men's competition will kick off with the Philippines facing New Zealand at 2:55pm. Following this, the Philippines will play against Indonesia at 4:35pm, then Chinese Taipei will take on Singapore at 5:35pm, and finally, Indonesia will face New Zealand at 6:25pm. The team with the most points will advance to the final match, which will be held at the end of the day at 8:15pm. In the women's competition, the Qatari women's national team will begin their campaign with two matches against the Philippines at 4:10pm and New Zealand at 6pm. The women's competition will kick off with the Philippines vs. New Zealand game at 2:30pm, followed by Chinese Taipei vs. Singapore at 3:20pm, Chinese Taipei vs. Indonesia at 5:10pm, and Indonesia vs. Singapore at 6:50pm. The first day's competition will conclude with the final game between the top two teams in the overall standings, which will be held at 7:50pm. The organizing committee confirmed that all logistical and technical preparations have been completed, amid close cooperation with the International Federation and the participation of international referees to ensure that the matches proceed at a professional level befitting Qatar's reputation as a global sports hub. This tournament is an important milestone in the Qatar Basketball Federation's strategy to expand the game and provide an international competitive environment for male and female players under the age of 23, enhancing opportunities for performance development and building future generations capable of representing Qatar at the highest levels. The champion of the Under-23 3x3 Basketball World Championship also qualifies for the 3x3 Basketball World Championships.