Fiery Final Between Riyadi and Sagesse: The Ninth Chapter of Lebanon's Basketball Classic Starts Today
The 2026 Lebanese Basketball League final tips off today between old rivals Riyadi and Sagesse, the ninth time the two giants meet with the title on the line.
Lebanon's basketball arenas light up once more as the 2026 Lebanese Basketball League final tips off between the traditional rivals: Al Riyadi Beirut and Sagesse Beirut. It is a genuinely historic meeting, the ninth time "the Yellow" and "the Green" have squared off in a championship final, writing a new page in the oldest and fiercest derby in the local game's history.
The eagerly awaited final brings back memories of the golden age of Lebanese basketball. Two clubs with huge followings, a rich record of titles, and a passion that never fades. One side defends its throne; the other chases a return to the summit.
Format: first to four wins lifts the trophy
The series is played as a best-of-seven, and the title goes to the first team to reach four victories.
Riyadi enjoy home-court advantage after finishing top of the regular season, with the odd-numbered games staged at Saeb Salam Arena in Manara.
Schedule, 9:30 PM Beirut time
- Game 1: Wednesday, 22 July, Saeb Salam Arena, Manara
- Game 2: Friday, 24 July, Antoine Choueiri Arena, Ghazir
- Game 3: Sunday, 26 July, Saeb Salam Arena, Manara
- Game 4: Tuesday, 28 July, Antoine Choueiri Arena, Ghazir
- Game 5: Thursday, 30 July
- Game 6: Saturday, 1 August
- Game 7: Monday, 3 August
Riyadi: defending the continental and domestic crown
The reigning Lebanese and Asian champions enter the final with great confidence and a clear goal: defend the crown and confirm their dominance. The Yellow side rely on technical stability under coach Ahmad Farran and on a cluster of local and foreign stars capable of settling the big occasions.
Sagesse: a return to glory
Sagesse, meanwhile, reach the final after eliminating Central Jounieh 3-1 in the semi-finals, arriving with high morale and the ambition to reclaim a title that has eluded them. The Green side are armed with their vast fan base and names capable of making the difference, chief among them Youssef Khayat, Sekou Doumbouya and Deshaundre Washington.
More than just a cup
The ninth final between Riyadi and Sagesse is not merely a fight for a championship. It is a new chapter in a sporting epic that has shaped the hearts of Lebanese fans for decades.
