MUSCAT, OCT 11
The 2025–2026 Youth Basketball League kicked off with two exciting matches that saw Masirah and Qurayat shine on opening day. Masirah cruised to a dominant 87–7 victory over Saham in a one-sided encounter at the Sohar Sports Complex, while Qurayat staged an impressive comeback to defeat Salalah 44–38 at the Seeb Club Sports Hall.
MASIRAH OVERWHELM SAHAM IN STYLE
The game between Masirah and Saham was completely one-sided, as Masirah controlled all aspects of play thanks to its strong organisation and excellent team chemistry, sealing the match with a massive 80-point margin.
Masirah’s top performers included Rashid al Isai, Mohammed al Shibli, and Khuzaymah al Shibli, who all excelled in scoring, while Suhail al Jabri managed Saham’s few points.
Masirah started strongly, scoring 17 points in the first quarter compared to 7 for Saham. They continued their dominance in the second quarter, adding 28 unanswered points while Saham could only manage a single point, ending the first half 45–6 in favour of Masirah.
The third quarter followed the same pattern, with Masirah adding 22 more points to Saham’s single point, before closing the match with another 20 points in the fourth quarter to seal a commanding 87–7 victory.
The game was officiated by referees Ali al Salmani (first referee) and Thabit al Hinai (second referee).
QURAYAT RALLY PAST SALALAH IN A THRILLING CONTEST
In the second match, Qurayat overturned an early deficit to claim a hard-fought 44–38 victory over Salalah in an intense and evenly matched encounter at the Seeb Club Hall.
Qurayat’s comeback was fuelled by the focus and efficiency of their players, with Khamis al Sinani and Saeed Hussein leading the scoring, while Fahd Bait Sanjour and Murshid Bait Sanasil stood out for Salalah.
The game began evenly, with Salalah taking a slight offensive edge to lead the first quarter 10–8. The second quarter saw balanced play from both sides, each scoring 6 points, as Salalah maintained a narrow 16–14 halftime lead.
In the third quarter, Qurayat took control offensively, scoring 13 points to Salalah’s 8, ending the quarter ahead 27–24. The fourth quarter remained competitive, but Qurayat managed to widen the gap by adding 17 points, while Salalah scored 14, securing the win 44–38.
The match was refereed by Mazin al Hilali (first referee) and Hussain al Owaimri (second referee).
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