ULAANBAATAR (Mongolia) - Johnny Sawma wasted no time introducing himself by submitting a performance to remember to power Lebanon to a triumphant FIBA U16 Asia Cup 2025 debut on Sunday.
The 1.84 M (6'0") shooting guard went 6-of-11 from deep and finished with 34 points, alongside 7 rebounds, 3 assists, and 6 steals to lead the young Cedars' third-quarter breakaway to beat India, 95-73.
He practically carried over his fine play from the WABA Qualifiers last July which they won, armed with confidence that stemmed from his experience playing in last year's FIBA U18 Asia Cup competitions in Jordan.
Before setting foot in the newly opened Ulaanbaatar games, Sawma was already part of the Lebanese crew that took part in the Amman meet as a 15-year-old, easily one of that tourney's youngest players.
Not often do we see somebody do it, but he just did. So, how does he feel being in rarified air? In this quick Q&A, Sawma talks about such, and other things - including his aspirations for Team Lebanon in this meet.
...my dream has been to represent my country and proudly raise its flag on the court.
You had 34 points in just your first game, seemingly carrying over your impressive performances from the WABA Qualifiers. Is there always a conscious effort on your part to deliver this well in every given opportunity?
Johnny: Yes, I will always give my best performance on the court and do my best to score in order to secure the win, with the full support of my team.
Not often do we see players compete in the FIBA U18 Asia Cup first before playing in the FIBA U16 Asia Cup. How much of an experience has this been for you with the youth team?
Yes, my case is quite unique, but being part of the U18 team as a rookie provided me with valuable experience and learning opportunities that will allow me to better contribute to my team in the U16 competition.
Can you tell us more about how and when you started playing basketball, and how did you find your way to play for the Lebanese national team?
From a young age, I developed a passion for basketball and began playing at the age of five with Hoops Club. Since then, my dream has been to represent my country and proudly raise its flag on the court.
Is there somebody from the Lebanon senior team that you idolize? If yes, how much of an influence are they to you as a player?
I look up to Sergio El Darwich as my idol. I admire his style of play. He inspires me, and I truly enjoy watching him on the court
It's been three years since the last time that Lebanon went to the Semi-Finals of this tournament. How positive are you that this batch would be able to bring the country back to the said stage?
Our main goal is to fight, showcase the best of our team, and keep raising the Lebanese flag proudly to the top, again and again.
FIBA