On 15 December, the Lao Men’s National Baseball Team finished fifth at the 33rd Southeast Asian (SEA) Games 2025 in Thailand, ending the tournament with a 2–4 record in a round-robin competition.
Laos fielded the youngest team in the tournament, with an average age of 22, and a roster of 18 players, among the smallest in the competition. Many of their opponents included players with overseas training or professional experience.
For the first time, Laos included overseas-based players, welcoming Lao-American brothers David and Davy Phrathep, who joined the team mid-tournament. The rest of the roster consisted of players developed through Laos’ local system.
Challenging Schedule Tests the Team’s Limits
The team arrived shortly before their opening game against Singapore at 10 AM with no rest days, the team played six games over five days.
In the tournament, Laos defeated Vietnam 16–0 and Malaysia 9–5, with the Phrathep brothers contributing significantly in the win against Malaysia. Laos narrowly lost to Indonesia 3–4. The team also recorded losses against host Thailand, the Philippines, and Singapore.
“Literally boys playing against grown men,” a team representative said, describing the young squad. “This team never stopped fighting. To come off a bus, sleep a few hours, and then compete against the best in ASEAN is nothing short of heroic. We showed that Laos belongs on this stage.”
Baseball’s Rapid Growth in Laos
Baseball in Laos began in 2013 when Korean organizer Sangwook Jae formed the first team with 12 teenagers. The Laos Baseball Federation was established in 2017, and the national team now holds its highest-ever WBSC World Baseball Ranking at 47th.
The federation highlighted the role of volunteer initiatives and international support, particularly from Korea, in developing the sport. Global Brothers, a community program, provides living support for athletes while promoting sports development, leadership, and teamwork.
Federation Calls for Greater Support to Build Future Talent
The Lao Baseball Federation has called for additional support from the Ministry of Education and Sports, the private sector, and the public, including funding for training, equipment, facilities, nutrition, and international competitions. The federation also noted the importance of school and community programs and partnerships with the Lao diaspora to strengthen the sport’s development.
“Laos has a young, hungry team with proven potential,” the federation said. “The progress since 2013 shows what is possible when passion meets opportunity. With strategic investment, this team can grow into a consistent regional contender and inspire the next generation.”
The SEA Games 2025 marked Laos’ continued presence in regional baseball competitions.
