Lebanon strode to their fifth West Asian Basketball Association Championship Wednesday, ousting hosts Jordan 72-61 to secure the title with one game to spare.
The latest win continued a perfect week for the Cedars where they routed Palestine and Iraq before slaying Asian giants Iran Tuesday.
Talisman Fadi El-Khatib, who has tormented opponents in Amman, once more top-scored for his side Wednesday, registering 33 points as Lebanon again proved to be a cut above their regional rivals.
The indefatigable 38-year-old continues to defy Father Time, consistently delivering stellar performances at WABA to lead the tournament scoring charts with 22.8 points per game.
Cedars head coach Joe Moujaes has proven to be an inspired choice by the Lebanese federation, creating an exciting style of play and team unity, while masterminding wins including the defeat of mighty Iran. The former Byblos coach will be chuffed with his side’s showing this week as they look ahead toward this summer’s Asia Cup, which Lebanon will host.
The Cedars will play their final game Thursday in a dead rubber against Syria. Another four spots for the Asia Cup are up for grabs for the remaining five sides in Amman.
