Habib Shines at NBA Academy Camp

Bahraini youngsters Mahdi Habib and Jok James have completed their participation in the NBA Academy Select Showcase in Abu Dhabi, with Habib earning individual honours at the four-day camp.

The programme, held at New York University Abu Dhabi from September 23 to 26, brought together 32 under-18 players representing 14 countries across the Gulf, South Asia and Africa.

Habib, captain of the national basketball youth team, was selected to the All-Showcase Team at the conclusion of the camp, according to the NBA Academy’s official account.

The duo took part in a comprehensive programme featuring individual skills and fitness training, life-skills sessions and combine testing, as well as evaluation games, team competitions and a three-point contest.

They were accompanied by senior team assistant coach Leon Subotic, while compatriot Mujtaba Mahmood had also been selected for the programme but was unable to participate due to a recent injury.

The camp was overseen by coaches with previous NBA experience, including Damian Cotter, James Wade, Henry Domercant and Dan Craig, alongside league staff.

Former NBA stars Ron Harper, a five-time champion, and Jason Richardson, a two-time Slam Dunk Contest winner, were also in attendance.

Their involvement continues a recent run of talent from the kingdom featuring in NBA development programmes. Hassan Abdulqader was previously selected for the Basketball Without Borders Next Up camp in Istanbul, organised by the NBA in collaboration with FIBA.