The Pakistan Basketball Federation (PBBF) has shortlisted 16 boys for the national Under-14 basketball squad to compete in the 2025 Samaranch Cup Asian Basketball Masters Invitational Tournament in China. These 16 will now take part in a training camp before the final squad is picked.Trials were held over two days at the Pakistan Sports Complex in Islamabad. More than 50 young players from across the country tried out. A four-member selection committee oversaw the process, chaired by Khalid Bashir, Secretary General of PBBF, joined by Riaz Malik (former player and coach), Col. (R) Shujaat Ali Rana, and Imran Afzal. Senior officials from the basketball community were present at the trials. These included PBBF President Brig. Muhammad Iftikhar Mansoor, Senior Vice President Imtiaz Rafi Butt, President of the Federal Basketball Association Ejaz Rafi Butt, Karachi basketball leaders including M. Yaqoob Qadry, and Islamabad Olympic Association’s Rizwan ul Haq Razi. The trials were organised by PBBF Associate Secretary Ouj-e-Zahoor.Parents and supporters came in large numbers to watch the tryouts. The atmosphere was described as full of energy and hope. Officials said this surge of interest shows basketball is growing in popularity in Pakistan, particularly among young athletes.What happens next: The shortlisted players will now enter a national training camp, where coaches will work on skills, fitness and teamwork. After the camp, the final squad to represent Pakistan in China will be announced.PBBF leadership called this a milestone for youth basketball in Pakistan. In particular, they emphasized that early international exposure can build confidence, improve performance, and raise the overall standard of the game. Gratitude was also expressed towards the Pakistan Sports Board, the Chinese Government, and the Chinese Embassy in Islamabad for their support in making the opportunity happen.This selection marks an important step in nurturing young talent and providing exposure. Observers say that performances at this level often set the tone for future success in national and international basketball. With the final squad to be named soon, excitement and expectations are high among the players, their families, coaches, and basketball fans across Pakistan.
