The final day of the SABA Qualifiers for the FIBA U18 Asia Cup, held on July 13th 2024 at the Sugathadasa Stadium, was nothing short of electrifying.
Basketball enthusiasts were treated to a day of intense competition and outstanding displays of skill and determination. The stage was set for the final showdown between India and Sri Lanka, while Bangladesh and Maldives battled it out in the consolation finals.
SABA Qualifiers Finals: India vs. Sri Lanka
The Finals between India and Sri Lanka were a testament to the high level of competition in the region. Both teams displayed commendable skill and strategy, making it a match to remember.
India started the game with a strong offensive, taking the lead with a score of 19-16. Their well-coordinated plays and solid defense kept Sri Lanka at bay, though the Sri Lankan team managed to stay within striking distance.
The second quarter saw a fierce exchange of points. Sri Lanka, driven by key players Darren Bernard and Eveen Senarathna, matched India point for point. By Half Time, the score was tied at 43-43, setting the stage for a thrilling second half.
The third quarter was pivotal for India. They tightened their defense and improved their shooting accuracy, outscoring Sri Lanka 20-7. This decisive quarter ended with India leading 63-50, creating a significant gap that Sri Lanka found hard to close.
India continued their dominance in the final quarter, eventually sealing their victory with a score of 87-62. Despite Sri Lanka’s efforts, they were unable to overcome the deficit. India’s comprehensive performance in the second half underscored their superiority and resilience.
SABA Qualifiers Consolation Finals: Bangladesh vs. Maldives
The battle for third place between Bangladesh and Maldives was equally captivating, with both teams showing immense determination and skill.
Bangladesh took an early lead in the first quarter, ending with a score of 12-5. Their aggressive play and strong defense were key factors in their early dominance.
Maldives bounced back in the second quarter, scoring 23 points to Bangladesh’s 10. This impressive comeback gave Maldives a 28-22 lead at halftime, showcasing their ability to adapt and recover under pressure.
The third quarter was closely contested, with Bangladesh edging out Maldives 22-13. This tight competition brought the score to 44-41 in favor of Bangladesh, setting up an intense final quarter.
The final quarter was a thriller. Maldives, showing great determination, outscored Bangladesh 18-13 to win the game with a final score of 59-57. This victory secured Maldives the third spot in the tournament, highlighting their resilience and tactical prowess.
Tournament Results
Champions – India: India’s triumphant performance throughout the tournament earned them the championship title. Their victory in the finals secured their spot in the FIBA U18 Asia Cup in Jordan. The team’s balanced approach, strategic gameplay, and consistent execution were key to their success.
Runner-Up – Sri Lanka: Sri Lanka, despite their loss in the finals, demonstrated remarkable progress and potential. Their journey to the finals was marked by strong performances, especially from players like Darren Bernard and Eveen Senarathna. Their resilience and competitiveness were commendable.
Second Runner-Up – Maldives: Maldives’ victory in the consolation finals against Bangladesh earned them the second runner-up position. Their performance was characterized by tenacity and tactical acumen, especially in critical moments of the game.
The conclusion of the SABA Qualifiers at Sugathadasa Stadium has set the stage for the upcoming FIBA U18 Asia Cup in Jordan. India’s qualification represents a significant achievement for the team and the region. The tournament provided a platform for young athletes to showcase their talents and gain invaluable experience, contributing to the growth of basketball in South Asia.
As the teams look forward to the FIBA U18 Asia Cup, the experiences and lessons learned from the SABA Qualifiers will undoubtedly shape their future performances. The enthusiasm and support from fans, combined with the dedication of the players, promise an exciting future for Basketball in the region.
