Omar El Turk, one of Lebanon’s most promising Basketball Players, has shown great style and amazing performances in his game lately as a part of the Lebanese Basketball national team and as a main player in the Riyadi Club first team. He is known for his devotion and love for the game but most of all his love for his country Lebanon!

iloubnan.info: Tell us the story: how did you become a basketball player?
Omar El Turk : Well, my grandfather from my mother's side and almost his entire family used to play basketball so I guess I grew up in that atmosphere. In my nature, I am a very competitive person and I’ve always enjoyed contributing into something. In this case it would be being part of a team. Team sports have always been my target.
It all started when I was still in school around the age of 13.I was picked to be on the varsity team and I was the youngest. Wasn’t the tallest or the most athletic kid but I worked so hard to prove myself everyday and that was the challenge that I fell in love with. Basketball is my life till this present day.

Who was your inspiration? (Which player? international or local)
My inspiration would definitely be Michael Jordan. I used to watch his tapes almost everyday just to see if I could grasp something from it.

When did you start playing for the National team?
I started playing for the national team about 3 years ago.

Which was the best basketball game of your life? Which was the worst?
I don't think I’ve had a best basketball game. I love basketball so much that to me every single game is the best. I’ve had plenty of bad performances but my worst was against Al-Jalaa in the semi finals at The Dubai tournament 2007 season.

What are the main characteristics of a successful Basketball player?
Well there are many characteristics that every young and old basketball player should have. The main ones would probably be: The ability to listen and learn, Team spirit, Mental and Physical toughness, Hard Work and lots and lots of Heart.

What do Lebanese Basketball players need to be successful outside of the country?
Many Lebanese basketball players have the potential to play outside but I think the main reason would be lack of size, athleticism and Experience. Of course, compared to the higher level basketball countries.

What is your highest score in one game?
The highest scoring game I’ve had was 40 points in college against our rivals and we won that game which was more important.

Did you receive any offers to play outside the country? Where?
I’ve had a couple of teams interested in me playing outside but nothing too serious. Plus even if it was to be serious, I wouldn't want to play anywhere else but here amongst my family in Lebanon.

Do you see any future for Lebanese Basketball?
I see GREAT future in our basketball but we can’t sit down and just talk about our past achievements to the whole world. We need to work harder than everyone else in order to achieve our goals. I believe in Lebanese Basketball.