MUSCAT, OCT 14
The University of Technology and Applied Sciences (UTAS) claimed the title of the 2026 Higher Education Institutions 3x3 Basketball Championship after defeating Muscat University in the final, bringing the students' competition to a close following an event that featured 11 higher education institutions.
Muscat University finished runners-up, while Sultan Qaboos University secured third place after beating the Military Technological College in the playoff for third and fourth positions. The championship featured a series of competitive encounters, highlighting the role of university sport in encouraging student participation and developing sporting talent in Oman.
Dr Ali bin Salam al Yaarubi, Chairman of the Oman University Sports Committee, said the championships form part of the committee's ongoing efforts to strengthen university sport and broaden student participation in sporting activities. He described the competitions as an important platform for identifying promising athletes, developing their abilities and fostering communication and cooperation among higher education institutions.
Al Yaarubi explained that the second 3x3 Basketball Championship for Higher Education Institutions in 2026 was the third event on the committee's sporting calendar for the second half of the year. It followed the esports championship and the students' and women's volleyball competitions, reflecting a varied programme designed to offer students multiple opportunities to participate and compete.
A total of 11 teams were divided into two groups, with six teams in Group A and five in Group B. The preliminary stage was played on a round-robin basis, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the semifinals.
UTAS topped Group A, followed by Muscat University, while Sultan Qaboos University finished first in Group B, ahead of the Military Technological College. In the semifinals, UTAS defeated the Military Technological College, while Muscat University overcame Sultan Qaboos University to set up the final showdown. UTAS went on to secure the championship, completing a successful campaign.
VALUES OF TEAMWORK
Al Yaarubi stressed that the purpose of university competitions extends beyond winning titles and securing top positions. Such events also help students develop their skills and reinforce the values of teamwork, cooperation, discipline and sportsmanship, while encouraging physical activity as an essential part of a balanced university experience.
He added that the participation of higher education institutions reflects growing interest in university sport and their commitment to supporting students in combining academic studies with sporting activities. According to Al Yaarubi, bringing academic and sporting development together plays an important role in building students' character and strengthening their abilities in different areas.
The committee chairman also emphasised that the success of the university sports calendar should not be measured solely by the number of competitions organised. Student participation, the positive impact of sporting activities and their contribution to promoting sports awareness and healthy lifestyles are equally important indicators.
Al Yaarubi concluded by thanking the participating institutions, organising committees, technical and administrative staff, and students for their cooperation and efforts in delivering the championship and supporting the wider development of university sport in Oman.
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