SHENZHEN (China) – At just 20 years old, Amar Mansour stands at the forefront of a generational shift in Lebanese women's basketball. Her sharp blend of skill, composure and relentless energy has made her much more than just one of the youngest players on the squad. Her FIBA Women’s Asia Cup 2025 campaign put that growth on display: moving from a supporting role in 2023 to one of the team’s all-around contributors.
In this year’s FIBA Women’s Asia Cup, Mansour stepped decisively into the spotlight, not only matching her peers but often leading them with her ability to impact all facets of the game. Averaging 9.8 points, 6.3 rebounds and 2.8 assists per contest, Mansour proved she could raise her level when it mattered. Note that two years ago, she put up just 1.3 points, 1.3 rebounds and 0.3 assists per game in Sydney.
Of course, what sets her apart are not simply her numbers but the authenticity of her approach to the game.
"We showed that with heart, we can do a lot of things. When you play with heart, you’re not going to think about anything else—not age or who you’re playing against. It’s just basketball, and you’re playing for your country. You have to give it all you got," she said, capturing both her mindset and her role as a young leader.
That heart was vital as they entered the make-or-break classification game against Indonesia. In a well-earned 67-57 win, Mansour again contributed across the board, with 13 points, 8 rebounds, 5 assists and 3 steals. That performance demonstrated composure that belies her age and helped Lebanon secure their Division A status for another cycle.
For Mansour, this tournament represented both responsibility and opportunity.
"I had a big responsibility this year. I started some momentum last year in Rwanda because the year before I was just a rookie so I didn’t play as much. Now, I entered with confidence, and I had so much trust from the coaching staff and my teammates," she added.
Team captain Rebecca Akl acknowledged Mansours's contributions, alongside those of the other up-and-coming players of Lebanon's new generation.
"They (new generation) are quick, tall and fearless. They gained confidence in this tournament, all of them," Akl said. "I am so proud of them. They took on some responsibility, which is gonna be good for them and our team in the future."
Mansour’s impact extends far beyond box scores. Her defensive tenacity, communication and willingness to take responsibility have made her an example for Lebanon’s younger players. Not surprisingly, Lebanon head coach Paul Coughter sees in Mansour the potential to shape the future of Lebanese women's basketball.
"She is a special talent, just 20 years of age and a strong defensive player. She’s just a marvelous talent and going to keep getting better. I am very proud of her," he said.
From her 19-point, 7-rebound, 5-assist showcase against a powerhouse Japan team on Day 1 to her clutch performance as Lebanon retained their Division A status, Mansour’s journey is still only in the early stages. She represents a new generation that will keep raising the bar for women's basketball in Lebanon.
FIBA