MUSCAT, DEC 14
Photos – Moosa al Balushi
Nizwa Club were crowned champions of the Youth Basketball Championship for the 2025–2026 sports season after a deserved 68–52 victory over Al Amerat Club in the final match, which was held in an exciting and highly competitive atmosphere. The award ceremony was held under the auspices of Eng Sami al Sahib, Vice-President for Strategic Affairs at Jindal Steel Sohar, in the presence of Eng Khalfan bin Saleh al Naabi, Chairman of the OBA, Saeed al Habsi, Secretary-General of the Association and Chairman of the Competitions Committee, along with several club representatives and sports figures.
The match began at a fast and intense pace from both sides, with Nizwa imposing themselves early before Al Amerat managed to level the score at 5–5. As the tempo increased, Nizwa showed strong focus and organised movement, allowing them to extend their lead, capitalising on consecutive three-pointers by Elyas al Obaidani to go ahead 14–7. Al Amerat reduced the deficit through Mohammed al Battashi, but Nizwa maintained their advantage, while Al Amerat’s Noah Brinks stood out by scoring seven points. The first quarter ended with Nizwa leading 16–13.
In the second quarter, Nizwa continued their offensive pressure, with Adam al Hinai boosting the score with a three-pointer, followed by another three from Elyas al Obaidani to widen the gap to 22–13. Al Amerat refused to give in, cutting the deficit with five consecutive points to make it 22–18. The excitement continued until the end of the first half, which Nizwa closed in front at 36–32.
The third quarter saw balanced play, with both teams exchanging attacks. Nizwa continued to control the scoreboard, with Al Mulhim al Obaidani and Adam al Hinai contributing important baskets, ending the quarter with a 46–38 advantage.
Nizwa sealed the win in the final quarter, asserting their dominance through quick transitions and accurate shooting. Neil al Adki added five consecutive points, while further three-pointers and fast-break scores stretched the lead beyond recovery, allowing Nizwa to close the game with a 68–52 victory.
The match was officiated by Ali al Salmani as first referee, Majid al Akhzami as second referee, and Thabit al Hinai as third referee, with Munira al Numani, Salma al Ghailani and Juma al Hinai at the officials’ table.
AWARDS AND HONOURS
Following the final, the patron of the ceremony and the Association’s officials presented the awards. Nizwa Club received the championship trophy and gold medals, Al Amerat Club were awarded the runners-up trophy and silver medals, while Seeb Club claimed third place and the bronze medals. On the individual awards front, Nizwa players dominated all honours, with Al Mulhim al Obaidani named the tournament’s top scorer, Adam al Hinai winning Best Playmaker, and Elyas al Obaidani receiving the Best Three-Point Scorer award.
Eng Al Sahib praised the high technical level of the final, noting that the match reflected the development of basketball in Oman and showcased impressive individual skills. He expressed his pleasure at sponsoring the final and reaffirmed Jindal Sohar Steel’s commitment to supporting the Oman Basketball Association as part of its corporate social responsibility strategy, stressing that the private sector is a key partner in sports development.
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