The second edition of the Basketball Champions League Asia (BCL Asia), FIBA Asia’s premier continental club competition, is taking place in Dubai from June 7 to 13, 2025 . The group stage runs at Sheikh Saeed Bin Maktoum Sports Hall, while the climactic knockout rounds are set for the state-of-the-art Coca‑Cola Arena
Nine elite teams from across Asia are competing: Al Riyadi Beirut (Lebanon), Utsunomiya Brex (Japan), Ulaanbaatar Xac Broncos (Mongolia), Meralco Bolts (Philippines), Shabab Al Ahli (UAE), Taoyuan Pauian Pilots (Taiwan), Zhejiang Guangsha Lions (China), Changwon LG Sakers (South Korea), and Tabiat (Iran). The top eight advanced to the finals, battling for a place in the FIBA Intercontinental Cup
The knockout stage is packed with intensity: quarter-finals on June 11, semifinals on June 12, and the third-place game followed by the grand final on June 13 . In a standout semifinal, Utsunomiya Brex overwhelmed the Broncos 93–71, setting a tournament record with 19 made three-pointers — the most in a single BCL Asia game in the last decade
Also notable is Al Riyadi’s semifinal victory over Shabab Al Ahli (100–78), even amid squad challenges, marking their return to the finalsThese high-stakes matchups underscore the level and intensity of Asian club basketball.
Dubai provides a fitting backdrop — world-class venues, excellent logistics, and an electric fan atmosphere at Coca‑Cola Arena draw attendees from across the region, transforming the tournament into a true celebration of the sport
BCL Asia 2025 is more than just a tournament. It’s a cultural milestone displaying Asia’s rise in global basketball, the competitive spirit of its clubs, and the growing ambition of the region. This event signals that Asian basketball is ready to shine on the world stage.
What sets BCL Asia apart isn’t just the caliber of play — it’s the convergence of regional pride, evolving basketball identities, and the dynamic clash of styles. From the fast-paced perimeter focus of East Asian teams to the physical interior game preferred by West Asian powerhouses, each contest becomes a study in contrast and adaptation. Teams are not only battling for a trophy, but also to define how Asian basketball will be represented globally.
Emerging stars and seasoned veterans have shined throughout the tournament. Utsunomiya’s sharpshooter Ryota Shinoyama has turned heads with his court vision and deadly accuracy from beyond the arc, while Changwon LG Sakers’ forward Lee Kwan-hee delivered several highlight dunks and defensive masterclasses. For Meralco Bolts, rising guard Aaron Black proved to be a two-way threat, blending hustle with creative ball movement.
Meanwhile, crowd favorite Al Riyadi’s run has been powered by team cohesion and experience. Despite injuries to key players, the Lebanese club leaned on its core leadership, including longtime captain Amir Saoud, who continues to deliver under pressure with clutch shots and on-court composure. Their decisive semifinal win reaffirmed their status as a cornerstone of West Asian basketball dominance.
The coaching dynamics have also contributed to the tactical richness of BCL Asia 2025. Zhejiang’s head coach Wang Bo brought a surgical approach to match preparation, while Shabab Al Ahli’s Serbian tactician, Dejan Radonjić, fused European discipline with Gulf flair. Such diversity in philosophies is emblematic of Asian basketball's increasingly global influence.
Beyond the hardwood, the event has attracted attention for its cultural impact. Dubai has transformed into a regional hub for sports diplomacy and basketball marketing, with pop-up fan zones, youth clinics, and networking events hosted in parallel with the games. The Coca‑Cola Arena, with its immersive lighting, live DJs, and digital fan engagement features, has elevated the spectator experience into something worthy of a global final.
FIBA’s vision for the Champions League Asia is clear: to establish a continental club hierarchy that mirrors the structure of Europe’s EuroLeague or Latin America’s Liga Sudamericana. This year’s edition, with its increased media visibility, streaming deals, and sponsor interest, represents a pivotal step toward that ambition. Conversations have already begun about expanding the format to 12 or 16 teams in 2026, as more domestic champions push for inclusion.
Looking forward, the champion of BCL Asia 2025 will not only earn a coveted spot at the FIBA Intercontinental Cupbut will carry the pride of a region that is no longer on the periphery of international basketball — but ready to claim its seat at the table.
The message from Dubai is loud and clear: Asia is not just participating in global basketball — it's becoming a force to be reckoned with.
