Courtside Global

Champville Maristes is not just another basketball club. This is a championship-winning organization, a team that lifted the Lebanese title in 2012 and was once synonymous with pride, identity, and competitiveness. Today, that same club is standing on the edge of relegation to Division 2. Let that sink in. What we are witnessing is not bad luck. It is not coincidence. It is not “just a tough season.” It is the direct result of years of disastrous administrative decisions, stubbornness, and complete detachment from reality. The roster that remains today is clearly not good enough. Everyone can see it. And yet, the administration — led by Ibrahim Mnassa — continues to insist on refusing the return of Lebanese players who left because of decisions HE personally took. You cannot push players away, burn bridges, then act surprised when the squad collapses. Let’s be very honest: If you do not have the budget to build a competitive Division 1 team, there is no shame in playing Division 2. Non...

Antonine delivered a strong statement on Tuesday afternoon, cruising past Batroun 102–65 in Round 16 of the Decathlon Lebanese Basketball Championship. From the opening tip, Antonine imposed their tempo, built an early cushion, and never looked back on their way to a comfortable home victory. But beyond the final scoreline, this game deserves a deeper look. Batroun entered the matchup severely short-handed. The team suited up with only two imports, while their starting center Ruot was sidelined with injury. Against one of the most organized teams in the league, the task was always going to be uphill. Antonine took full advantage. Balanced Attack from Antonine Antonine moved the ball beautifully all night, finishing with 30 assists and shooting nearly 58% from the field. Their offense flowed through multiple creators and finishers, making it impossible for Batroun to load up on any single player. Leading the way: • G. Cosey – 21 points, 11 assists, 2 rebounds • E. Chamoun – 17 points, 8...