Bahrain 3x3 team earn recognition for youth leadership

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain’s women’s 3x3 basketball team faced a tough campaign at the 2025 FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup in Singapore, exiting at the qualifying stage after losses to Malaysia and the Republic of Korea. However, despite the on-court setbacks, Bahrain’s basketball community had reason to celebrate, as the Bahrain Basketball Association was recognized for its success in the FIBA Foundation Asian Youth Leadership Program.

Bayan Salman, a focal point of Bahrain’s women’s team, expressed her gratitude for the honor during the annual Khalifa Cup draw, saying: “Thank you to the Bahrain Basketball Association for the recognition during the annual Khalifa Cup draw for winning 1st place at the FIBA Foundation Asian Youth Leadership Program in Singapore. We can’t wait to carry our program out this year in Bahrain, hoping to impact many lives.”

Tough Battles in Singapore

On the court, Bahrain struggled against strong opposition in Pool A of the qualifying draw.

Their campaign opened with a 17-12 defeat to Malaysia, a game where they fought hard but ultimately fell short. The second match against Korea proved even tougher, with Bahrain suffering a 21-5 loss, ending their hopes of advancing to the main draw. Despite the early exit, the tournament offered valuable experience for the squad, as they aim to build on their regional success—most notably a bronze medal at the 2022 Gulf Games.

Bayan Salman’s Optimism and Team Spirit

Before the tournament, Salman remained confident in the team’s potential, saying: “I have full faith in my team. I believe we have what it takes to make some more history.” She also praised the team’s coaching staff, crediting head coach Murteza and assistant coach Dragovic for their leadership. “Coach Murteza is leading us with passion as always, and Coach Dragovic is adding a lot of experience.”

Looking Ahead

The 2025 FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup, held from March 26 to 30, concluded with Australia securing their fifth title by defeating Japan in the final. While Bahrain’s run was short-lived, the tournament showed the rapid growth of 3x3 basketball in the region.

For Bahrain, the focus now shifts to the future—both in competitive basketball and through the youth leadership program. With the recognition from FIBA and the Bahrain Basketball Association, the country’s basketball community is poised to make a lasting impact, both on and off the court.