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Under the patronage of the Lebanese Basketball Federation (LBF) and supported by the army, the 2nd Karim Melhem U18 Tournament Memorial concluded this weekend at the Emile Lahoud Military Sports Compound, an edition where athletic performance serves the cause of prevention.
The curtain fell on Saturday at the Emile Lahoud Military Sports Compound: Hoops dominated Beirut Club 98-80 in the final of the 2nd Karim Melhem U18 Memorial. More than just a score, it carried a message.
Launched at the end of August under the patronage of the Lebanese Basketball Federation (LBF) and with the support of the Lebanese Army, the tournament brought together the country's U18 elite. In the stands, the electric atmosphere of big nights: fast pace, raised arms, long-range shots, games decided in the final moments. From the opening ceremony, the matchups delivered on their promise.
Sport and Cause: KARE in Action
Behind the organization, Karim’s family created KARE, an initiative that turns his memory into a meaningful force for youth.
KARE focuses on:
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Athletic aspiration (support for sports projects)
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Road safety
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Educational support (school scholarships)
“There is no profit made: the goal is to honor Karim and keep his memory alive in a meaningful way. All funds raised are redistributed as scholarships to children in need. I am wary of NGOs and the drift away from concrete results: we want to stay simple and effective,” Tony Melhem, Karim’s father, told This is Beirut exclusively.
A High-Level Competition and a Clear Final
The top clubs showed up, ensuring a high technical level and showcasing emerging talent—only La Sagesse did not participate due to the absence of a U18 team. Aggressive defenses, lightning-fast transitions, smart rotations: the competition serves as a springboard for young players aiming for first teams. When the curtain fell on Saturday, Hoops confirmed its superiority over Beirut Club (98-80).
The Karim Spirit
“Karim was one of a kind, selfless. At 18, he was admirable: athletic, generous, positive and full of energy and good vibes,” recalls Jean Kabbani, the coach who helped launch the memorial in his memory.
Karim Melhem was only 18 when a car accident cut his future short in September 2024. His loved ones chose the most dignified path: to channel his passion on the court to save lives off it. This memorial does not ease the absence, but it changes the score where it matters: in the minds and hearts of the young who play, learn and grow—buckling their seatbelts, staying in school and believing that sport can shape their trajectory.
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