Sana’a - Saba:
The Men's First Division Basketball League for the 2024/2025 season began on Monday organized by the Yemeni General Basketball Federation, with eight teams participating in the competition.
The league is being held through gatherings in the capital Sana'a and Aden and Hadhramaut provinces with matches scheduled to accommodate the current conditions of the country and the clubs. The competition follows a home-and-away format.
At the opening of the league at al-Ahly Club Hall in Sana'a, Ali Hadban, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Youth and Sports for the Sports Sector, commended the General Basketball Federation’s efforts to continue and enhance the sport.
He emphasized the importance of sports in youth development, stating that "athletes are the most aware and committed segment," and reaffirmed the Ministry's support for federations to help overcome challenges in organizing events.
The opening match featured a thrilling competition between Sana'a Unity (the reigning champions) and al-Ahly (the title runner-up).
The match ended with a victory for al-Wahda, who won 81-69, collecting their first two points in the league while al-Ahly earned one point. The return match between these two teams is scheduled for December 22.
In Hadhramaut, the opening day saw Shaab Hadhramaut dominate Sayoun with a 78-25 victory, earning two points to top the league.
In the second match, al-Barq Tarim defeated Sayoun 59-44. The second day of the Hadhramaut gathering will feature a match between Shaab Hadhramaut and al-Barq Tarim.
Meanwhile, in Aden, al-Mina team kicked off their league participation with a 67-46 win over al-Tilal, claiming the two points. Al-Tilal received one point from the match. Tomorrow's match in Aden will see al-Mina take on Shamsan in a highly anticipated clash.
The league is set to continue with high competition across the three gatherings, promising an exciting season for basketball fans.
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