SHENZHEN (China) - Lebanon delivered a dominant performance to secure their place in the FIBA U18 Women's Asia Cup 2024-Division B Final by way of a 64-49 victory over Iran in the Semis, Saturday at the Futian Sports Park.
Reem El Ghali finished with 22 points and 13 rebounds, while Maygem Naassan supplied a 14-4-6 stat line with 6 steals and 2 blocks as the duo helped the crew arrange a showdown with the Philippines for the Division A promotion.
“It was very surreal out there today, I had to lock in and remind myself to be present,” said El Ghali, who sits second across the competition on efficiency and rebounds.
“Lebanon is going through a hard time right now, so to be here representing my country, putting our best foot forward, we just want everyone to see our fighting spirit, we really want that promotion," she continued.
First-Half flex
Lebanon jumped out of the blocks early with Karen Hoteit sinking a 3-pointer to start proceedings, followed by consecutive lay-ups from Reem El Ghali to give them the early lead and momentum closing out the first quarter with an 11- point lead, 20-9.
El Ghali stood tall with the support Naassan as the tandem helped Lebanon maintain an advantage heading into the halftime break, 31-23.
Zahra Zarei was rock solid for Iran in the first half. Supported by the unsuspecting Mobina Rahimi the Iranians stayed in touch.
Maygen Naassan-inspired
Naassan continued her form at both ends. Heading into the final quarter she had the most assists, blocks and steals for Lebanon and remained accurate at the net.
She read the play and took every opportunity in every moment to attack the ball. With one quarter to go, Naassan had 12 points, 6 steals, and 4 assists.
Final showdown
Lebanon then held their nerve in a tense final quarter to advance to the FIBA U18 Women’s Asia Cup Division B Final for a shot at a promotion to Division A.
Hong Kong China defeated the Maldives, 91-30, in the Classification 5-6 match to wrap up the second last day of competition at the FIBA U18 Women's Asia Cup - Division B.
FIBA