Maldives Hosts First-Ever FIBA U16 Regional Qualifiers, Powered by Dhiraagu

The International Basketball Federation, FIBA’s Under 16 Asia Cup SABA Qualifiers and FIBA Under 16 Women’s Asia Cup SABA Qualifiers, powered by Dhiraagu, officially started on Thursday, 12 June 2025, at the Social Centre Indoor Court in Malé.

The SABA Championship is a basketball tournament for national teams organised by the South Asia Basketball Association, a sub-zone of FIBA Asia.

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Running from 12 to 16 June, the tournament brings together four South Asian nations—Maldives, India, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh—as they compete for a coveted spot in the prestigious FIBA U16 Asia Cup. This event marks a historic first for the Maldives as host of an international basketball tournament at the U16 level, representing a major milestone for the Maldives Basketball Association (MBA) and a significant leap for youth sports development in the country.

Dhiraagu, the title sponsor of the qualifiers, continues its long-standing commitment to nurturing basketball in the Maldives. As a key partner in developing the sport from grassroots to national level, Dhiraagu’s support underscores the growing momentum behind youth athletics in the country.

This landmark tournament not only enhances the Maldives’ presence on the regional basketball stage but also signals promising progress for the future of Maldivian sports.