Maldives U21 Begin Campaign with Impressive Win Over JOES

Sports

The Maldives U21 National Basketball Team made a strong start to the Sports Nation Basketball Championship 2026 with an impressive 83-60 victory over Sri Lankan side JOES in the second match of the tournament held in Malé City.

The national team delivered an excellent all-round performance, controlling the game on both ends of the court to secure a convincing 23-point win. The victory gives Maldives U21 an early boost as they continue their campaign in the four-team competition.

The tournament had opened on Friday evening with Nets defeating Lancers 73-46, while the Maldives U21 side followed up with another commanding display against JOES.

Four teams are competing in the championship: Maldives U21 National Team, Nets, Lancers, and Sri Lankan club JOES. The tournament is being played in a league format, with the top two teams advancing to the final and the remaining teams contesting the bronze medal match.

Attention now turns to Saturday's fixtures. At 16:00, the Maldives U21 National Team will face Lancers in a crucial match as they look to strengthen their position in the standings.

Later in the evening at 20:30, Nets will take on JOES, with both teams eager to improve their chances of reaching the championship final.

The Sports Nation Basketball Championship aims to provide a high-level competitive platform for young players while strengthening basketball development in the Maldives and the region.

The tournament's main sponsor is Milo, with support from the Maldives Basketball Association and the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Sports and Fitness.

The event is further backed by co-sponsors Commercial Bank of Maldives, Sollarele, Ace Travels, and Health & Glow.

With two convincing victories recorded on the opening day, fans can look forward to more exciting action as the race for a place in the final intensifies.