SHENZHEN (China) - Playing in her sixth FIBA Women’s Asia Cup, Rebecca Akl is more than just a player for Lebanon. She is the heartbeat of a national team striving to make its mark on Asia’s biggest stage.
Starting her Women's Asia Cup journey at just 16 years old in 2009, Akl has grown alongside the steady evolution of Lebanese basketball, becoming one of the program's most experienced and respected veterans.
On opening day of the 2025 tournament, Akl delivered a commanding performance against Japan, scoring 27 points, which is the highest single-game total so far, while adding five rebounds and two three-pointers. However, beyond her stellar production, it is her passion and pride that resonate most deeply with teammates and fans alike.
"It’s an honor to represent Lebanon, especially since we are just a small country," Akl said. "I just want to put the name of our country on the basketball map and help the world get to know who real Lebanese people are through basketball."
"I am always eager and happy to participate with the national team," she added. "This year, we have a bigger goal, and we’re working hard for it. I truly believe and hope we can achieve it.”
Speaking of goals, Lebanon’s ambitions have evolved through the times.
"Throughout all the years we have competed in Division A, the only goal was to stay in the division. Now, our bigger goal is to finish top six and join the Qualifiers for the Women's Basketball World Cup," Akl explained.
"We know these teams have great individual players and play good basketball, but we also believe we have improved through the years," she said. "This year, we have a young team, but we have been together for two years already. We are united in our target and have a great coaching staff behind us."
Akl highlights the team’s youth and defensive mindset as key strengths.
"For many members of our team, it’s the first time they will play in Division A," she said. "They are very hungry and very excited for it. It’s a defensive-oriented team. We can run and have more length than before. We’re using this to our advantage."
Rising Lebanese basketball star Amar Mansour sums up Akl’s impact.
"Rebecca Akl has been our leader," Mansour said. "In 2023, she hit that buzzer-beater for us. She has always been huge and our inspiration."
Rebecca Akl’s journey is a testament to honor, pride and leadership. As Lebanon pushes to rise higher in Asia’s basketball hierarchy, she remains the steady force guiding a new era in Lebanese hoops, determined to leave a lasting legacy for the country and the team she loves.
FIBA