Sharjah Jumps Out With Exciting New Roster
UAE Season Opener: Sharjah vs Al Jazira
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.