LAHORE (Abdul Basit): The Pakistan Basketball Federation (PBBF) has made a major stride in nurturing young basketball talent by shortlisting the national Under-14 boys’ squad for the 2025 Samaranch Cup Asian Basketball Masters Invitational Tournament in China.
Over 50 aspiring players from across the country participated in the two-day trials held at the Pakistan Sports Complex, Islamabad. After an intensive evaluation process, 16 players were selected for the national training camp. The selection was overseen by a four-member committee chaired by PBBF Secretary General Khalid Bashir, alongside former international player and national coach Riaz Malik, Col (R) Shujaat Ali Rana, and Imran Afzal.
Senior basketball administrators graced the occasion, including PBBF President Brig Muhammad Iftikhar Mansoor, Senior Vice President Imtiaz Rafi Butt, FBBA President Ejaz Rafi Butt, KDBA General Secretary M Yaqoob Qadry, and IOA Secretary General Rizwan ul Haq Razi. The event was coordinated by PBBF Associate Secretary Ouj-e-Zahoor.
Parents turned up in large numbers, creating a vibrant and encouraging atmosphere for the young athletes. Officials lauded the enthusiastic response as a reflection of basketball’s growing popularity in Pakistan.
“This is a milestone for Pakistan basketball. International participation at such a young age will enhance players’ confidence, sharpen their skills, and ultimately raise the standard of the sport in the country,” remarked Khalid Bashir. He also expressed appreciation to DG Pakistan Sports Board Yasir Pirzada, the Chinese government, and the Chinese Embassy in Pakistan for their continued support. The shortlisted players will now undergo a rigorous training camp before the final squad for the China tour is officially announced.
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