The American School of Dubai (ASD) Falcons dethroned defending champions GEMS World Academy (GWA) Dragons to clinch the 2013/14 High School Basketball Championships on Saturday.

Taking place at the Sheikh Rashid bin Hamdan Hall at Al Nasr Club, the Falcons defeated the Dragons 54-44.

The Dragons started the brighter team, taking an early 17-9 lead, but the Falcons worked their way back into the contest and at half-time trailed by just two points.

The second half proved a tightly-contested affair, with the lead changing eight times. However, midway through the third quarter and with GWA up by one, ASD employed a full court press defence that stifled the Dragons and helped them to a 24-7 run to open up an unassailable lead and effectively end the contest.

Player of the game, Hasan Ismail of ASD finished the game with 18 points, seven rebounds, and four assists, while teammate Asad Chevel, in the second half produced 11 points, including and three crucial three pointers.

“You couldn’t ask for two better teams in this final and it was tight but we stayed focused and fought hard and in the end I think we deserved it,” Ismail said post-game.

“This was a great tournament and now we have a great title that will recognise us as the best team in the nation.”

ASD coach, Thomas Lambert added: “This was a great experience for the kids at ASD. I’m very proud of what our boys have achieved this season. They now have memories for life and I couldn’t be happier for them.”

Greg Slosek, Coach of the GWA Dragons and winner of last year’s competition was gracious in defeat as he congratulated the winners.

“What an excellent opportunity this has been to showcase the basketball talent we have in the UAE. Congratulations to ASD on a successful championship run.

"I would also like to congratulate the organisers 3SM for the exceptional job they have done for the youth in the UAE.”