Pak U14 basketball squad shortlisted for Samaranch Cup in China

The Pakistan Basketball Federation (PBBF) has taken a significant step in promoting basketball at the grassroots level by shortlisting the national Under-14 boys’ basketball squad for the upcoming 2025 Samaranch Cup Asian Basketball Masters Invitational Tournament in China.

The two-day trials, held at the Pakistan Sports Complex, saw participation from more than 50 young players from across the country. Following rigorous evaluation, 16 players were shortlisted for the national training camp, according to a press release from the federation.

A four-member selection committee, chaired by Khalid Bashir, Secretary General of PBBF, oversaw the trials. The panel also included former international player and national coach Riaz Malik, Col. (R) Shujaat Ali Rana, and Imran Afzal.

Senior basketball administrators attended the trials, including PBBF President Brig. Muhammad Iftikhar Mansoor, Senior Vice President Imtiaz Rafi Butt, President of the Federal Basketball Association Ejaz Rafi Butt, General Secretary of Karachi Division Basketball Association M. Yaqoob Qadry, and Secretary General of Islamabad Olympic Association Rizwan ul Haq Razi. The trials were coordinated by PBBF Associate Secretary Ouj E Zahoor.

Parents turned out in large numbers to cheer on their children, creating an encouraging and enthusiastic atmosphere. Officials described the overwhelming response as a positive sign of basketball’s growing popularity in Pakistan.

“This is a milestone for Pakistan basketball. International participation at such a young age will boost the players’ confidence and experience, and help raise the overall standard of the game in the country,” said Khalid Bashir. He also expressed gratitude to DG Pakistan Sports Board Yasir Ahmed Pirzada, the Chinese Government, and the Chinese Embassy in Pakistan for their support in making this opportunity possible.

The shortlisted players will now attend a national training camp, after which the final squad for the China tour will be announced.