ZOUK MIKAEL (Lebanon) - Ali Mezher has rejoined Sagesse SC for the third time, signing with the team ahead of the FIBA WASL Final 8 in 2026. This return is particularly meaningful as the 32-year-old point guard brings enhanced experience following a stint with the Akita Northern Happinets in Japan's B.League during the 2025-26 season.
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Mezher highlighted the skills he honed during his time abroad, noting, "Just by having good vision, and good patience on offense, and playing hard on defense." He was among a select group of five Lebanese players who took the opportunity to compete in the burgeoning professional league when it opened its Asian Player Quota. The others included Sergio El Darwich, Omar Jamaleddine, Karim Ezzedine, and Naim Rabay, all of whom have represented Lebanon internationally.
Now back in Lebanon, Mezher aims to leverage the lessons learned abroad to help Sagesse pursue their long-sought championship. "It was very important for me to go there and showcase my talent and come back to do something special for Sagesse," he said, expressing his enthusiasm for playing with the team after 13 years as a professional athlete.
Mezher made his WASL debut on Monday night at the Nouhad Nawfal Sports Complex against Shahrdari Gorgan. He scored his first points at the 7:49 mark of the second quarter with a pull-up three-pointer, finishing with 3 points, 2 rebounds, 4 assists, and a steal in 16 minutes of play. He is still adjusting to his new role within the team.
Sagesse secured a 103-97 victory, marking their first win against Gorgan in this tournament after previously losing all three matchups. Mezher expressed his pride in the team's performance and remains optimistic about their chances this season. "It's always special to play for Sagesse, and to play in this tournament," he remarked. "I think we have a good team this year to compete and give ourselves an opportunity to win this tournament for the first time. We're really working hard to play every game the way we want to play." FIBA.