14 Teams fighting for 7 spots. Only the best will go on while the rest head home and prepare for the winter season. Expect some upsets, some glorifying performances and some heart break. Round 1 is here. Best of luck.

(10) Granada vs. (23) Istanbul - The defending champs smell the finishline! Anwar knows what time it is. Waqas knows what time it is. Singer knows what time it is. Istanbul wish they knew what time it is. On to the sweet 16.

(11) Sarajevo vs. (22) Alexandria - Sarajevo was without some key players and due to a forfeit find themselves playing in round 1. Nonetheless more basketball is never a bad thing. They have 5 guys who can go off and ignite the offense. Not the greatest team defensively but hey who needs defense when you continue to outscore your opponents. Alexandria ended their losing streak. Hooray. They'll start a new one on September 8th.

(12) Jakarta vs.(21) Delhi - Delhi is going to be without point guard Splash Abdelghani. Regardless, I think Jakarta advances with ease due to their experience and willingness to move the basketball. Fun Fact: Ed had 23 points on 50% from the field at the age of 43.

(13) Timbuktu vs. (20) Fez - SHEEESH. Ummmm. Well. Maybe next year Fez?

(14) Cordoba vs. (19) Cairo - UPSET ALERT!!!! Cordoba had Islamabad on the ropes in their season finale but could not hold onto the lead. Despite the poor attendance they kept the game close, so props to them. This team had high expectations coming into the season but I see their season ending at the hands of AMP. Luke and Goldberg is an intriguing matchup, Kenny might have to match AMP shot for shot which is never easy. Cairo Advances.

(15) Mecca vs. (18) Lahore - won't predict my own game but it would be nice to have a full squad for once.

(16) Sana'a vs. (17) Jerusalem - Sana'a with a big time win against Tehran in week 10 and should keep the ball rolling in round 1 against a Jerusalem squad who won't go down without a fight.

That's all folks.