Japan’s B.League didn’t become a basketball success story overnight. In this episode, we have Dequan Jones on as a special guest to discuss how Japan transformed a fragmented basketball system into one of Asia’s fastest-growing leagues. From unifying the domestic structure to investing in development, marketing, and international talent, we explore the key decisions that sparked the B.League boom—and what growing basketball markets like the UAE can learn from Japan’s blueprint.

Dequan Jones is a seasoned professional basketball veteran playing in the NBA and across Europe and Asia. Dequan played in the UAE the last two years and has now moved on to Kuwait playing with Qadsia in the KBL. Jones has a wealth of knowledge surrounding league development, international dynamics and league success.

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In this episode, we explore the full story of Lebanese basketball — from its early roots to its golden eras, legendary players like Fadi El Khatib and Wael Arakji, and the country’s rise as one of the strongest basketball nations in Asia. We’ll dive into the league structure, the role of foreign and naturalized players such as Omari Spellman, and how Lebanon continues to punch above its weight on the world stage.

Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to the scene, this deep dive reveals why basketball in Lebanon isn’t just a sport — it’s a way of life.

Abu Dhabi, UAE — The 2025 Abu Dhabi International Basketball Championship, held at Al Jazira’s Mubadala Dome, featured some of the top clubs from across the Middle East and Asia. With teams such as Al Qurain (Kuwait), BC Astana (Kazakhstan), Al Wahda (UAE), Champville (Lebanon), Al Riyadi (Lebanon), Al Dhafra (UAE), Tropang (Philippines), and Sharjah (UAE), the tournament offered fans a rare opportunity to see a mix of regional powerhouses and international talent compete on UAE soil.

Among the standout clashes was the matchup between Sharjah and Al Riyadi, two clubs representing distinct basketball traditions — one a growing force in the UAE, the other a perennial champion in Lebanon and the region. Despite the prestige and experience of their Lebanese counterparts, Sharjah pulled off a hard-fought victory, signalling that their recent roster overhaul may have elevated them to a new level of competitiveness.

Sharjah’s New Era Takes Shape

The Sharjah Basketball Club, one of the UAE’s most consistent performers in recent years, showcased an entirely refreshed look. The club introduced three new foreign signings — Glenn Robinson III, Kavell Bigby-Williams, and Charles Matthews — each bringing valuable experience and complementary skill sets to the squad.

Robinson III, a former NBA forward known for his athleticism and scoring touch, adds star power and leadership. Bigby-Williams, the 6’11” British center with NCAA and professional experience in Europe, provides size and defensive presence inside the paint. Sharjah’s lineup was bolstered by the addition of Charles Matthews, a 6-foot-6 guard/forward known for his time at Kentucky and Michigan. His presence adds experience and versatility to Sharjah’s revamped roster

Sharjah also strengthened its local core with the signing of Ahmed Abdulateef, who joined from Shabab Al Ahli, and the steady development of young talents like Mahmoud “Wassim” Al Sawan. The combination of these signings with returning import DeMarco Dickerson has given Sharjah one of its most versatile and balanced rosters in recent memory.

This renewed lineup demonstrated resilience, depth, and chemistry, particularly impressive given the calibre of the opponent. Facing a team of Al Riyadi’s pedigree, Sharjah executed with poise — showing that the club’s investment in a dynamic and flexible roster is beginning to pay off.

Al Riyadi: A Benchmark of Regional Basketball Excellence

Al Riyadi Beirut needs little introduction in Middle Eastern basketball. With a history spanning over 75 years, the Lebanese powerhouse has established itself as one of the most successful clubs in Asia, boasting multiple Lebanese League titles, Arab Club Championships, and FIBA regional honors.

Though this year’s squad looks slightly different following the transfer of Wael Arakji — the 2022 FIBA Asia Cup MVP — to Saudi Arabia’s Al Ula, Al Riyadi remains loaded with talent and experience. Veterans Amir Saoud, Karim Zeinoun, Hayk Gyokchyan, Ali Mansour, and international standouts Ivan Buva and Maurice Kemp continue to uphold the club’s reputation for high basketball IQ, teamwork, and elite execution under pressure. The addition of Ismail Abdelmoneim added further depth to a lineup that, as always, competed until the final seconds.

Even in defeat, Al Riyadi displayed the composure and tactical discipline that have made them a model for basketball excellence in the region.

A Glimpse of the Region’s Basketball Future

Sharjah’s victory over Al Riyadi serves as more than just a highlight of the Abu Dhabi International Basketball Championship — it reflects the growing competitiveness of UAE basketball on the regional stage. With local clubs investing in player development, world-class imports, and professional infrastructure, the gap between UAE teams and their regional counterparts is narrowing rapidly.

This matchup also underlined how basketball in the Gulf is evolving into a more dynamic and internationally influenced game. For fans in the UAE, seeing Sharjah overcome a regional giant like Al Riyadi signals that a new chapter in Emirati basketball might be unfolding — one defined by ambition, growth, and an increasingly global outlook.

Final Score: Sharjah (UAE) def. Al Riyadi (Lebanon)
Venue: Al Jazira Club, Mubadala Dome – Abu Dhabi
Tournament: Abu Dhabi International Basketball Championship

Basketball fans in Dubai were treated to a classic as Al Nasr pulled off a narrow 102–101 victory over Shabab Al Ahli in the UAE Open Cup. The game had everything—explosive plays, defensive grit, and a finish that kept everyone on edge until the final buzzer.

Shabab Al Ahli came out strong, powered by their dynamic roster. Deshandre Washington, known for his athleticism and versatility, brought his trademark energy, slashing to the rim and making plays on both ends of the floor. Alongside him, Dikembe Dixson, an experienced wing with an international pedigree, showed off his scoring ability and high-flying athleticism. Coming off the bench, 6’8 forward Assane Boye brought his trademark athleticism, using his length and leaping ability to deliver emphatic dunks. A longtime presence in the UAE basketball scene and a fixture with Shabab Al Ahli for several years, Boye’s experience and energy continue to make him a valuable asset for the club. Local standouts like Qais Omar Alshabebi, and rising players such as Omar Al Amri, and Saeed Al Ajmani added depth and impact, giving Shabab Al Ahli multiple options to challenge Al Nasr’s defense. Their ability to combine outside shooting with emphatic dunks made them a constant threat.

On the other side, Al Nasr leaned on a mix of international firepower and local talent. Marvelle Harris, a proven scorer who once starred at Fresno State in the NCAA and went on to build a strong professional career overseas, shouldered much of the offensive load with his tough shot-making. Eugene Omoruyi, the Canadian-Nigerian forward with NBA experience from his time with the Dallas Mavericks, Oklahoma City Thunder, Detroit Pistons and Washington Wizards, brought physicality, versatility, and a strong two-way presence that gave Al Nasr a crucial edge. Supported by Emirati players such as Saleh Sultan, Hamad Ashoor, Hassn Hussein, and Faisal Mohammed, along with the towering presence of Mamadou Ndiaye, Al Nasr’s full-court defensive pressure and relentless team actions wore Shabab Al Ahli down just enough to escape with the win.

The matchup also highlighted the competitive spirit of two of the biggest clubs in the UAE. Shabab Al Ahli, one of the most decorated teams in the Gulf with multiple league titles, continues to set the bar for domestic basketball dominance. Meanwhile, Al Nasr, with its historic sporting tradition in Dubai, is showing it can compete at the highest level by blending international with homegrown talent.

While Shabab Al Ahli delivered the flash with dunks and three-point barrages, it was Al Nasr’s grit, persistence, and timely execution that ultimately made the difference. The game ended 102–101, but both squads proved that the UAE Open Cup is a stage where basketball in the Emirates is reaching new heights.

The 2025–26 UAE Basketball League tipped off with a statement from the defending champions. Sharjah overpowered a young Al Jazira side 87–53, showing why they remain the benchmark for domestic basketball.

Former NBA swingman Glenn Robinson III delivered a dazzling 30-point performance, mixing eight three-pointers with high-flying dunks and a few key steals. New 6’11” signing Kavell Bigby-Williams anchored the paint and, paired with nearly seven-footer Cheikh, gives Sharjah unmatched size and defensive versatility. Sharjah’s depth shone through with strong contributions from Demarco Dickerson, Mahmoud “Wassim” Al Sawan, and offseason recruit Ahmed Abdullateef, who joined from Shabab Al Ahli.

Al Jazira, meanwhile, continues its rebuild after re-entering the league last season. Their energetic No. 7 guard stood out with flashes of skill, a sign that the capital club’s investment in player development is beginning to pay dividends.

From National Dominance to Regional Ambition

Sharjah’s domestic success now opens a bigger stage. By winning last year’s UAE title, the club has qualified for the FIBA West Asia Super League (WASL) Gulf region, marking a new chapter in their history. They join Shabab Al Ahli, the reigning Gulf Conference champion, giving the UAE two representatives in the WASL for the first time—a significant milestone for the country’s basketball growth and visibility across Asia.

Sharjah’s convincing opener is more than just a league victory; it’s a declaration that they intend to compete—and win—both at home and across the Gulf. For Al Jazira, the night served as a reminder that progress takes patience, but their foundation for a competitive future is clearly in motion.

Note this video was made before the news of Damian Lillard going back to the Blazers.

Game Recap:

TNT's balanced attack, led by Roger Pogoy and Calvin Oftana's 18 points each, proved too much for Magnolia's stout defense.

Players of the Game:

Roger Pogoy (TNT): 18 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists. His clutch shooting down the stretch sealed the win.

Calvin Oftana (TNT): 18 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists. His all-around dominance helped TNT stay ahead.

Ian Sangalang (Magnolia): 14 points, 7 rebounds, 1 assist. His strong performance wasn’t enough to overcome TNT’s firepower.

Key Stats:

TNT shot 42.9% from the field, while Magnolia struggled at 37.5%.

TNT’s bench outscored Magnolia’s 27-40, but starters made up for it with 53 points.

Magnolia committed 26 fouls, leading to 19 TNT free throw attempts.

What It Means:

The winner of Game 7 will advance to the PBA Cup FINALS!

Will TNT complete their comeback or will Magnolia seize the opportunity to move forward?

Share your predictions!

Montreal's offense struggled from beyond the arc, shooting just 30.5% from 3PT, while Niagara's balanced attack proved too much to handle.

Player of the Game:

• Quincy Guerrier (Montreal): 26 points, 12 rebounds, and 8 assists. His all-around dominance wasn't enough to secure the win.

• Ekiyor Edwards (Niagara): 19 points, 15 rebounds, and 4 assists. His strong performance helped Niagara take control down the stretch.

Key Stats:

• Niagara outrebounded Montreal 45-48, despite Montreal's advantage in defensive rebounds (48-45).

• Montreal committed 82 fouls, while Niagara received 81 - a staggering disparity that impacted the game's flow.

• Niagara's bench outscored Montreal's 28-2 in points off the bench.

What It Means:

Niagara moves into a stronger playoff position, while Montreal must regroup quickly to maintain their postseason hopes.

Will Montreal bounce back or will Niagara keep rolling?

Share your thoughts!