FIBA Asia is the brains behind the revered WASL basketball event, welcoming an assortment of clubs from West Asia, South Asia, the Gulf Region, and Kazakhstan. The superior talent found in this league is earmarked for acclaimed events such as the FIBA Intercontinental Cup and the FIBA Asia Champions Cup.
The WASL highlights rising talent in the world of basketball, and its popularity is increasing. Whether it’s through West Asia Super League betting with cryptos or a bet between friends as everyone piles round the TV to catch a game. So you know who to watch out for on the court, we’re putting the spotlight on two important names - it’s their time to shine.
Mighty Joe Young
A former NBA player, Joe Young, was a replacement for Tony Carr on Monday night. Kuwait Club played Manama Club at Khalifa Sport City, Isa Town, marking the second season that Kuwait City leads the sub-zone league.
Some impressive skills were seen, with Young grabbing 25 points. The home team was leading the way in the third quarter but with Kuwait Club trailing two points behind, most of these much-needed shots were scored in the fourth quarter.
Young boasted an EFF of 23 with more than half the shots scored from the field, three rebounds, and five assists. Young’s sterling performance was acknowledged by being honoured with the Step Ahead Player of the Game. The Kuwait win had even more significance as they were beaten by Manama Club in the finals in 2023.
There are three Gulf Leagues on their way to the Final 8 stage of the FIBA WASL. Kuwait Club, Manama, and Kazma are the three subzones on that list. Joe Young is definitely one to watch on the court. His basketball story is sure to have many more impressive chapters!
The Cape Cod Kid
A consistent player of the game, Nick Minnerath is a current player in Shabab Al Ahli - Dubai. Minnerath has been on the court in a professional capacity for 10 years. His resume also extends to other notable leagues across the globe - from Korea and China to Puerto Rico, Spain, and France.
But Minnerath’s journey followed a unique path. He only played basketball in his sophomore year of high school. A broken ankle and failing to qualify academically put paid to any basketball dreams. When he reached the age of 20, his life took a turn for the better.
Minnerath was blessed with a basketball scholarship and returned to college. Starting again at 20 was no easy task for the 2.06m student. It included a two-season stint with Detroit Mercy in NCAA D1, plus enduring ACL and MCL injuries.
Being able to adapt is a key element to having a promising basketball career. The opportunity to travel across the globe has allowed Minnerath to witness different cultures, refining the way he views the world.
Minnerath is grateful for all his sporting achievements. His podcast, The Cape Cod Kid, has become a motivating tool for listeners. He shares details about his personal struggles and the highs and lows of his career. He aims to inspire kids to make sport a vital part of their lives, and not to throw in the towel.
Spectator Sport
These are just two big names in the WASL, but there are plenty more on the horizon. We recommend you keep an eye out for Edgar Sosa, Amir Saoud and Mohammad Hossein Jafari in particular, although Mohammed Alsuwailem and Saeed Alajmani are also worth watching. Head over to our sports section for another dose of inspiring sports content!
