Lebanon National Basketball Team's Journey to International Success and Key Players

I still remember the first time I watched the Lebanese national basketball team play—it was during the 2017 FIBA Asia Cup, and they absolutely stunned me with their resilience and tactical discipline. Over the years, I’ve followed their journey closely, and what stands out to me is how they’ve transformed from a team that relied heavily on structured execution to one that can adapt dynamically, especially under pressure. That evolution didn’t happen overnight, and it certainly wasn’t accidental. It’s a story of strategic coaching, player development, and a clear vision for international success.

One of the most telling moments in recent memory came from head coach Jad El Hajj, who, in a post-game interview, echoed something similar to what assistant coach Gavina once highlighted about the team’s direction. Gavina had explained, “That’ll give us a lot more extra stability at the point guard slot and another option for me of how I want to change up our pace from being an execution team to being more of a pressing team.” I’ve always believed that this shift in philosophy was a game-changer for Lebanon. For years, the team was known for its methodical, half-court style—solid, but sometimes predictable. The decision to integrate more pressing and up-tempo elements, especially through versatile guards, opened up new dimensions in their gameplay. It’s not just about X’s and O’s; it’s about creating a mindset that can thrive in high-stakes environments.

Let’s talk about some of the key players who’ve made this transition possible. Wael Arakji, for instance, has been nothing short of phenomenal. I’ve watched him grow from a promising young guard into the team’s undisputed leader. His performance at the 2022 FIBA Asia Cup, where he averaged around 18 points and 5 assists per game, was a masterclass in clutch playmaking. But what really impresses me is his ability to control the tempo—whether slowing things down to execute set plays or pushing the ball in transition to exploit defensive gaps. Then there’s Ali Haidar, a forward whose versatility has been crucial. At 6’8”, he’s not just a traditional big man; he can stretch the floor, defend multiple positions, and, in my opinion, his chemistry with Arakji is one of the best in Asian basketball. I’d argue that Haidar’s contributions often fly under the radar, but without him, Lebanon’s frontcourt wouldn’t have the same balance.

Of course, it’s not just about the stars. The depth of the squad has improved dramatically over the past decade. Players like Sergio El Darwich and Gerard Hadidian have brought energy and defensive intensity that perfectly complement the team’s new pressing identity. I remember watching a qualifier game last year where El Darwich’s relentless on-ball pressure forced three turnovers in just five minutes—that’s the kind of impact that doesn’t always show up in the stat sheet but wins games. And let’s not forget the role of the coaching staff in identifying and nurturing this talent. From what I’ve observed, their focus on developing younger players while integrating experienced veterans has created a healthy competitive environment.

The numbers back this up, too. Lebanon’s FIBA world ranking jumped from the mid-40s to as high as 32nd in recent years—a significant leap that reflects their growing influence on the global stage. In the 2023 FIBA World Cup qualifiers, they won roughly 70% of their games, with an average margin of victory of around 12 points against Asian rivals. Those stats aren’t just impressive; they’re a testament to the strategic shifts Gavina alluded to. The point guard stability he mentioned? It’s evident in how Lebanon reduced turnovers by nearly 15% compared to previous cycles, which, in my view, directly correlates with their ability to handle pressure in critical moments.

But it hasn’t all been smooth sailing. I’ve also seen them struggle with consistency, especially against European powerhouses where their pressing style sometimes gets exposed. There was a game against France where they led at halftime but eventually lost by 20 points—a reminder that while their new approach is effective, it’s still a work in progress. Still, I appreciate their willingness to take risks. In international basketball, playing it safe rarely leads to breakthroughs.

Looking ahead, I’m genuinely excited about Lebanon’s prospects. With a core group of players hitting their prime and a coaching philosophy that encourages adaptability, they’re poised to make even bigger waves. The key, in my opinion, will be maintaining that balance between execution and aggression—knowing when to slow it down and when to unleash full-court pressure. If they can do that, I wouldn’t be surprised to see them competing in the knockout stages of major tournaments sooner rather than later.

In the end, Lebanon’s journey is more than just a sports story; it’s a lesson in how strategic vision and player development can elevate a team beyond its perceived limits. As someone who’s watched this transformation unfold, I can’t help but feel a sense of pride in what they’ve achieved—and optimism for what’s still to come.