Staff Reporter
Doha: President of the Qatar Olympic Committee H E Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani crowned Al Arabi Club champions of the HH the Amir Basketball Cup for the 2025–2026 season following a commanding 84–63 victory over Al Sadd in the final held on Wednesday at Al Gharafa Hall.
Played before a large and vibrant crowd, Al Arabi set the tone early, dominating the opening three quarters (22–16, 27–25, 32–9), while Al Sadd claimed the fourth period (13–3).
The coronation ceremony unfolded in a festive atmosphere, with Sheikh Joaan presenting the trophy to Al Arabi’s captain amid jubilant celebrations. Qatar Basketball Federation President Mohammed bin Saad Al Mughaiseeb also attended the ceremony.
Al Arabi received gold medals and a cash prize of QR1.5m, while Al Sadd secured silver medals and QR900,000. Bahraini star Mustafa Hussain “Mosti” led the winners with 31 points, while Al Sadd’s Dejan Janic and Steven Bernard Linard Green scored 17 points each.
The closing ceremony also honoured tournament sponsors, including Elite Motors, Musafir Trading & Transport, Rosewood Doha Hotel, Shaat Al Bahr Group, winwin.com and Murial Water Park, while match officials were recognised for their performance.
In recognition of a historic season, the Qatar Basketball Federation awarded Al Arabi the Sports Excellence Shield, received by club president H.E. Sheikh Tamim bin Fahd Al Thani, marking an unprecedented treble—Qatar Basketball League, Qatar Cup and Amir Cup titles—alongside multiple youth honours.
Al Rayyan, meanwhile, claimed the inaugural Qatar Basketball Super Cup this season.
Al Arabi reached the final after defeating Al Ahli and Qatar Club, while Al Sadd advanced past Al Rayyan and Al Shamal.
Established in the 1999–2000 season, the Amir Cup remains one of Qatar’s premier basketball competitions, with Al Rayyan holding the record of 10 titles from 14 final appearances.
QBF President Al Mughaiseeb praised the tournament’s success, noting the final reflected the growth of Qatari basketball, while officials highlighted the competition’s role in strengthening player development and fan engagement.
The final also featured fan entertainment, including halftime contests, with the evening concluding in excitement as Elite Motors awarded a 2026 Chery Tiggo 2 car to a lucky winner in a live raffle.
