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3. WASL: Al Riyadi on Top of Asia, Sagesse Grabs the Bronze

Al Riyadi showcased masterful basketball at Naufal Stadium to cap off a perfect, historic campaign, while the Greens found consolation with third place after a commanding win over Shabab Al Ahli.

Gold for one, bronze for the other. While Al Riyadi steamrolled past Tabiat (104–77) to claim a second consecutive FIBA WASL crown, Sagesse managed to bounce back by overpowering Shabab Al Ahli (100–86) and secure a spot on the podium on Sunday night at Nouhad Naufal Stadium.

Despite the heartbreak of losing their semifinal to Tabiat, Sagesse bounced back with determination. Led by a stellar performance from Jad Khalil (27 points, 9 assists), Sagesse sealed the deal in crunch time with clutch three-pointers from Khalil and O’Bryant. It was a dignified way to end their continental journey—frustrating, yes, but far from shameful.

A Brave Sagesse

After losing the final to Al Riyadi last year, Sagesse had hoped to reach the top once more. But fate—and Tabiat—had other plans. Without their star scorer Zach Lofton, out due to injury, coach Omar Bakri’s squad leaned on teamwork, pride and rediscovered shooting form to end on a positive note. Bronze doesn’t replace gold, but it soothes the hearts of the Green faithful.

Royal in Yellow

Then there’s Al Riyadi. The institution. The powerhouse. The unshakable. The Yellow Castle from Manara, led by an unstoppable Wael Arakji (28 pts), left no room for doubt. 13 games, 13 wins. A flawless back-to-back. A final controlled from start to finish. And Naufal Stadium rose to salute a dynasty that’s far from done writing history.

“This is a major achievement for Lebanese basketball. Champions two years in a row. We are proud—and we’re still hungry,” said coach Ahmad Farran, the symbol of a team that refuses complacency.

Last year, they were crowned in Doha. This time, the crown was claimed at home. A fortress of experience, talent and intensity. And when Arakji, Saoud, Georges-Hunt and Thon Maker perform their symphony, even the bravest opponents can only applaud.

“This win is for the fans. This tournament is theirs. They deserve even more,” said Arakji, named tournament MVP.

Hats off, Al Riyadi. Curtain falls on WASL. Respect to Sagesse, who, even without a final, remain seated at the table of the elite.