THE Malaysia Basketball Association (MABA), has submitted an application to the International Basketball Federation (FIBA), recommending Malaysia’s legendary basketball figure, Datuk Yeoh Choo Hock, be inducted into the FIBA Basketball Hall of Fame.
MABA president Datuk Seri Lee Tian Hock said Yeoh, 81, boasts over 30 years of experience in basketball administration and is a deserving candidate.
“He served as MABA secretary general for 17 years (1990-2007), MABA vice president for two years (2008-2009), and held the role of secretary general of the Southeast Asian Basketball Association (SEABA) from 1994 to 2006,” he said.
In addition, Yeoh was the secretary general of FIBA Asia from 1998 to 2012 and has been honoured with the title of Secretary General Emeritus of FIBA Asia since 2012.
Throughout his career, he has held several key international positions, including FIBA vice-president (2003-2006).
Lee said Yeoh’s outstanding achievements include leading Malaysia’s national basketball team to a gold medal at the 1989 Kuala Lumpur SEA Games and promoting international basketball by organising major tournaments such as the Women's Basketball World Championship in Malaysia.
“His contributions to the sport extend globally, having served as a FIBA Commissioner at four Olympic games and several FIBA world championships.
“His efforts were also recognised with numerous awards, including the 1997 Best CEO Award by the USA Basketball Association and the 2001 John Wooden Lifetime Service Award,” he added.
With his immense accomplishments in basketball, Lee said he believes that Yeoh is fully deserving of a place in the FIBA Basketball Hall of Fame, where he will continue to inspire future generations to engage with and develop the sport. - October 18, 2024
