The India U-18 team that won both the girls’ and boys’ categories at the SABA qualifiers.
Nagaland’s Sentiningsang Longkumer leads national contingent
DIMAPUR, JUNE 2 (MExN): India emerged champions in both the boys’ and girls’ categories at the South Asian Basketball Association (SABA) Qualifiers for the FIBA U18 Asia Cup 2026, held in Colombo, Sri Lanka, over the weekend.
The India U18 Girls Team dominated the tournament, registering victories over Sri Lanka and Maldives in the group stage before defeating Sri Lanka 83-57 in the final to claim the title. With the win, India secured qualification for the FIBA U18 Women’s Asia Cup 2026 Division B, scheduled to be held in Bangkok from July 13 to 19.
The India U18 Boys Team also finished on top, defeating Sri Lanka 78-56 in the final to secure the sub-zone championship. India had already qualified for the FIBA U18 Asia Cup 2026 as hosts of the tournament, which will be held in Ahmedabad from August 13 to 23. Sri Lanka also secured a berth at the continental event, while Maldives finished third after edging Bangladesh 62-59 in the playoff.
The Indian contingent was led by Sentiningsang Longkumer, Honorary Secretary of the Nagaland Basketball Association, who served as Head of Delegation and manager of the girls’ team during the tournament.
