Courtside Global

 Lebanon basketball has always moved in cycles. Generations pass, leaders rise, and new talents slowly take shape. The country has never lacked skill. What it has often lacked is continuity, long-term planning, and a clear identity. When looking five years ahead, I truly believe Lebanon can build a national team that is competitive in Asia and dangerous internationally if the right pieces are  developed and placed in the right roles. Below is my personal vision of a 12–13 man roster that could represent Lebanon in the coming years. Point Guards • Wael Arakji – 195 cm Asia MVP 2022 with the national team. Asia MVP at club level. One of the most gifted offensive players Lebanon has ever produced. A true clutch performer. His legendary shots in the 2022 Asian Cup semifinals and finals and his heroic performance against France at the World Cup will always be remembered. He remains the face of Lebanese basketball and the primary ball handler. Image : FIBA • Ali Mansour Currentl...

 The road to the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 continues, and the Lebanese National Team is set to take another important step when they host India at Nouhad Nawfal Sports Complex in Zouq Mikael as part of Window 2 of the Asian Qualifiers. After a mixed start in Window 1 against Qatar — one win and one loss — Lebanon now turns its focus toward maintaining momentum and protecting home court, something the Cedars have historically done very well. This upcoming game against India represents more than just another fixture. It is an opportunity to assert identity, correct mistakes from the previous window, and strengthen Lebanon’s position in Group D. Source: FIBA A Familiar Matchup with Positive History Recent history strongly favors Lebanon in this matchup. Lebanon has won all recent official encounters against India, including: • 103–74 win in the 2023 Asian Qualifiers • 95–63 win in India in 2022 These results underline a clear trend: when Lebanon plays with discipline and intensit...

Lebanon will be represented on an international stage once again. Youssef Khayyat and Amir Saoud, two of the brightest stars in Lebanese basketball, are set to participate in the Basketball 3×3 All-Star Game, organized by Match for Hope in collaboration with the FIBA World Cup 2027 Qatar and the Qatar Basketball Federation. The event takes place Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at Place Vendôme – Gate 1 Eiffel, 2nd Floor in Qatar. 🕔 17:30–18:30 Qatar Time 🕓 16:30–17:30 Beirut Time Two Leaders, Two Powerhouses Youssef Khayyat, currently starring with Sagesse, has been one of the most consistent performers in the league this season. Through 13 games, the versatile forward is averaging: 19.3 points 8.5 rebounds 4.1 assists 1 steal 1 block Playing nearly 34 minutes a night, Khayyat has established himself as a true two-way force and a cornerstone for the Greens. On the other side, Amir Saoud, the dynamic guard of Riyadi, continues to deliver efficient offense and elite playm...