SEOUL: Golf Saudi’s grassroots coaching initiative, GoGolf, made its international debut in South Korea this month, offering free golf lessons to more than 300 children and Saudi expats during the Aramco Korea Championship.

The initiative was run alongside the $2 million Aramco Korea Championship, part of the new-look PIF Global Series, held at New Korea Country Club from May 9 to 11.

At the tournament, Czech golfer Sara Kouskova led her team to victory, while home favourite Kim Hyo-joo clinched the individual title after three days of play.

Away from the competition, Golf Saudi delivered three days of onsite coaching clinics as part of its GoGolf program, aimed at introducing new players to the game. Sessions took place on the tournament driving range and were led by Golf Saudi coaches and brand ambassadors.

“At Golf Saudi we are passionate about bringing more and more people into the game we love, helping it continue to grow both in Saudi Arabia and around the world,” said Muath Al-Alsheikh, program manager at GoGolf.

“We know that means enabling access and breaking down barriers of entry wherever possible, so that’s why GoGolf offers all Saudis free lessons — and why we were thrilled to host complimentary GoGolf clinics in Seoul.

“It was great to see so many young golfers come and be part of the sessions, including some who were repeat participants — amongst them, several of the Saudi expats. This shows the effectiveness of clinics like these in driving a growing interest in golf,” Al-Alsheikh added.

The GoGolf scheme, launched in Saudi Arabia, offers newcomers three months of free lessons, followed by discounted rounds, coaching, and memberships.

According to Golf Saudi, the program has delivered more than 70,000 free lessons to date, contributing to a 300 percent increase in Saudi golf participation since 2022. About 3,000 Saudi women have taken up the sport since 2021.

In Seoul, participants included local children aged five to eight who were introduced to the game through a partnership with First Tee Korea, a non-profit focused on youth development through golf.

Sessions were also open to Saudi expats living in South Korea, some of whom had previously taken up the sport in the Kingdom.

“I really enjoyed GoGolf,” said Abrar Abdulwahab, one of the approximately 100 Saudis who took part.

“I tried golf last year in Saudi Arabia, and now, trying again here, I’ve definitely noticed an improvement in my skills. When I return to my home, I’ll continue learning more, it’s been a wonderful experience,” he said.

Fellow expat Fahad Al-Qahtani added: “I’m extremely grateful for this program and its organizers. Not only did I take part in the coaching session, but I also learned about the history of golf in Saudi Arabia, which was really interesting.”

DUBAI: The second-round clash between the Oklahoma City Thunder and Denver Nuggets was a thrilling showdown between two of the brightest stars, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Nikola Jokic, both frontrunners for the 2024–2025 NBA MVP.

But now, the NBA Western Conference Finals present an even more compelling narrative, a duel between Oklahoma’s Gilgeous-Alexander and Anthony Edwards of the Minnesota Timberwolves, two rising stars competing for the title of the “Face of the League.”

Changing of the guard as next generation takes over

As the NBA legendary era of LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant approaches its twilight, the focus shifts to the next wave of superstars.

With established players like Jokic, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Trae Young, and the Spurs’ phenom Victor Wembanyama making their mark, this series offers a refreshing showcase of two young guards ready to take the league by storm.

It is a classic guard-vs-guard battle that basketball enthusiasts will relish.

Oklahoma City are battle tested

Oklahoma City enter the series as the Western Conference’s top seed, following a dominant 68-win regular season.

At the heart of their success is Gilgeous-Alexander, who is on track to win his first NBA MVP. Averaging 32.7 points, 6.4 assists, and 5.0 rebounds per game, the Canadian superstar has become the face of the Thunder’s resurgence.

In the playoffs, OKC swept the Memphis Grizzlies in the first round, capitalizing on Ja Morant’s injury in Game 3, and outlasted the Denver Nuggets in a thrilling seven-game series.

Gilgeous-Alexander’s 35-point performance in Game 7 put him in elite company, joining Durant as the only Thunder player to score 35 or more points in a Game 7.

Timberwolves back to the Western Conference Finals

On the other hand, the No. 6 seed Timberwolves have taken a different path to the conference finals. After a commanding five-game victory over the No. 3 seed Los Angeles Lakers, they faced the Golden State Warriors in the second round.

The series took a decisive turn when Curry was injured in Game 2, allowing Minnesota to capitalize and close out the series in five games.

For the Timberwolves, this marks their second straight trip to the Western Conference Finals, following last year’s loss to the Dallas Mavericks.

2 teams chasing historic first championship

Both teams are now on the brink of history, each aiming to win their first NBA championship. The Thunder have not reached the NBA Finals since 2012, while the Timberwolves have never made it that far.

This is more than just a series; it is a clash of two young stars leading their teams to uncharted territory. The winner will advance to the NBA Finals to face either the Indiana Pacers or the New York Knicks, who are battling in the Eastern Conference Finals.

The X factor, supporting casts and rising stars

Playoff success is often determined by superstar performances, but it also relies heavily on role players stepping up and making a difference. For the Thunder, Gilgeous-Alexander is the engine, but he is far from alone.

Rising star Jalen Williams has become a crucial piece, contributing with scoring, playmaking, and defensive versatility. His ability to complement Gilgeous-Alexander will be a key factor in Oklahoma City’s success.

Additionally, Alex Caruso’s impact cannot be overstated. In Game 7 against the Denver Nuggets, Caruso’s tenacious defense on Jokic played a pivotal role in limiting the MVP to just 20 points.

As the Thunder prepare to face the Minnesota Timberwolves, Chet Holmgren’s presence as a rim protector will be vital. The Timberwolves’ aggressive approach to attacking the paint will test Holmgren’s defensive prowess.

His ability to deter easy paths to the rim could be a determining factor in the series outcome.

Minnesota’s secret weapons include Edwards and Randle

Meanwhile, the Timberwolves rely on Edwards, whose explosive scoring and fearless mentality have transformed Minnesota into a contender.

Alongside Edwards, Julius Randle has rediscovered his form, becoming a reliable scorer and rebounder, a far cry from his past playoff struggles. Randle has been a consistent contributor, averaging nearly 24 points per game in the playoffs.

Anchoring the defense is Rudy Gobert, a four-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year. Gobert’s rim protection and rebounding have been pivotal. He also can score when the team needs him as he recorded playoff career highs with 27 points and 24 rebounds against the Lakers in the first round.

The Timberwolves’ depth is a significant asset. Naz Reid, the former Sixth Man of the Year Award winner, has become a reliable scorer off the bench. Jaden McDaniels adds defensive versatility and scoring, while veteran Mike Conley offers leadership and playmaking, guiding the team’s younger players.

Battle beyond the finals

As the series tips off, the spotlight will shine on Gilgeous-Alexander and Edwards, but the supporting cast and defensive battles may well decide the outcome.

The Thunder and Timberwolves are not just battling for a place in the NBA Finals but for one in the league’s future.

The NBA Western Conference Finals Game 1 between the Timberwolves and Thunder is scheduled for Tuesday, May 20.