Bahrain Meet Qatar in Gulf Title Decider

Bahrain's U18 men's national team will take on hosts Qatar tomorrow in a clash expected to decide the Gulf Basketball Association (GBA) U18 Championship title in Doha.

Tip-off is scheduled for 6pm Bahrain time.

Both teams head into the tournament finale unbeaten and have already secured qualification for the Fiba U18 Asia Cup 2026 in Ahmedabad, India, after claiming the top two places in the Gulf qualifying event.

Bahrain have been in outstanding form throughout the championship. The kingdom opened with a 106-51 victory over Kuwait before defeating Saudi Arabia 62-54 and routing Oman 94-49 in their latest outing.

Arab Youth Championship Most Valuable Player Somto Patrick Onoduenyi has led Bahrain's charge. He starred against Oman with 19 points and 15 rebounds, while Mohamed Adel Abdulla and Yousif Yaqoob Meshaei added 14 points apiece.

Head coach Salman Ramadhan will now be hoping his side can cap an impressive week by lifting the Gulf title before turning their attention to the continental championship, which will be held from August 13 to 23.

Qatar have also impressed on home court, matching Bahrain's unbeaten record to set up what promises to be a thrilling contest.

While qualification for the Fiba U18 Asia Cup has already been secured, tomorrow's encounter offers Bahrain the chance to add another trophy to an already successful year after winning the 23rd Arab Youth Men's Basketball Championship earlier this month.

With Bahrain confirming their place at this year's Fiba U18 Asia Cup, 15 of the 16 spots have now been filled. The kingdom joins defending champions Australia, China, Chinese Taipei, hosts India, Iran, Japan, Kazakhstan, South Korea, Lebanon, New Zealand, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Syria and Thailand. One place