The Malaysia International Basketball Invitational draw results are in, setting the stage for an exciting tournament as Malaysia and China celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations. The event, to be held at the MABA Stadium in Kuala Lumpur from October 23rd to 27th, will feature eight teams, including top domestic clubs and four visiting teams from China.
The draw places defending Major Basketball League (MBL) champions, NS Matrix Deers, in Group B, where they’ll face tough competition from newcomers Putrajaya ParkCity Heat, China’s Northwestern Polytechnical University from Shaanxi, and the Macau Representative Team. Meanwhile, Group A looks equally competitive, featuring Johor Southern Tigers and Penang Sunrise Youngsters, alongside Shanghai Jiao Tong University and the Fujian Youth Team from China.
The Sunrise Youngsters have significantly strengthened their lineup for this competition. In collaboration with MBC Kirin, they have brought on board MBC head coach Guganeswaran S. Batumalai as an assistant coach, while key players Lai Kok Weng, Lim Wan Seong, and Matthew Chin Jin Yen will also join the team. Additionally, they have bolstered their lineup by bringing in 6’9″ French center Alioune Tew to anchor the paint, giving their roster a substantial boost.
The group stage matches will take place from October 23rd to 25th, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the semifinals on October 26th. The winners will then battle for the championship in the final on October 27th.
This tournament will serve as a preparation ground for Malaysian teams gearing up for the upcoming MBL, while also providing an opportunity to foster basketball ties with China. With a mix of local talent and international flair, the stage is set for some thrilling matchups.
Thanking you in advance for allowing me to join the post.
Welcome to the community.🙌🏾