Manama: The Bahrain National Basketball Team (BBA) has moved up in the latest world rankings issued by the International Basketball Federation (FIBA), rising one place to 66th globally and 11th in Asia, marking its highest ranking in history.
According to Bahrain News Agency, this progress highlights the BBA's strong performances in recent competitions, boosting its global ranking. As the team continues its development, it now prepares for the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 qualifying playoffs alongside Iraq and India.
Bahraini basketball has witnessed growth in recent years, with the support of His Highness Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, First Deputy Chairman of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports (SCYS), Chairman of the General Sports Authority (GSA), and President of the Bahrain Olympic Committee (BOC).
The team delivered performances against higher-ranked opponents in the continental qualifiers, earning valuable ranking points. Now on the verge of breaking into Asia's top 10, it remains motivated to achieve further success.
Alaa Madara, Chairman of the BBA, commended this accomplishment, noting that the advancement reflects the efforts of the players, coaching staff, and management.
He emphasised that this ranking in FIBA's classification serves as a morale boost for the national team and highlighted the attention and support provided by HH Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad to the sport.
The national basketball team is preparing for the qualifying play-off matches for the FIBA Asia Cup, which Bahrain will host from March 21-23. The team aims to secure qualification for the tournament, set to take place in Saudi Arabia in August.