Al Riyadi Faces Challenges in FIBA West Asia Super League Final 8

ZOUK MIKAEL (Lebanon) - Al Riyadi is confronting significant challenges in the FIBA West Asia Super League (WASL) Final 8 2026 as they pursue a third consecutive title. Coach Ahmad Farran is working to establish chemistry among a largely new lineup, which has limited preparation time leading into this key tournament.

Following a victorious opening night against Indian Railways on Saturday, Farran emphasized the difficulty of integrating new players. "We have three foreigners, three new players, and we are trying to make them fit in our chemistry. It's a challenging situation for us, as always," he stated.

The current squad differs markedly from the team that won the 2025-26 Lebanese Basketball Championship just last August by defeating Sagesse SC in a tight best-of-seven series. Key players like Nuni Omot, Perin Buford, and Maurice Kemp have departed, though they were instrumental in achieving a top-seed finish in the WASL-West Asia League earlier this season with a 6-2 record. Their replacements include Zach Lofton, Nick West, and Donovan Williams, who join ex-Sagesse forward Naim Rabay and veteran guard Ali Mahmoud.

Although some new members are familiar with the club's dynamics, Farran acknowledges the urgent need for preparation entering the Final 8. Compounding the situation, their domestic league concluded on August 3, leaving little time for adjustment before this major tournament. The timing of the Final 8, usually held in May, has also changed due to regional circumstances.

Farran remarked, "To start the season with a major tournament is not easy, especially since we didn't play games," highlighting that their opener against SABA was effectively their first official match together. However, the team retains experienced players Amir Saoud, Hayk Gyokchyan, Karim Zeinoun, Ali Mansour, and Bilal Tabbara, which may bolster their performance.

Despite an ACL injury sidelining Wael Arakji during the previous Finals, Farran remains focused on maximizing his current roster. He expressed confidence in his players, stating, "We try to cope with any team we have. We built this team, I built this team. And I'm totally satisfied with my players." He added that the return of key local players who contributed to last season's title win is beneficial as they navigate the ongoing challenges.