CHAMPIONS Muharraq claimed a hard-earned 86-80 victory over Al Ahli last night in the 2019/2020 Zain Bahrain Basketball League.
Veteran forward Mohammed Alderazi buried a three-pointer to make it 75-73 and give Muharraq the lead for good with just over five minutes remaining. Ali Shukrallah then made three straight baskets, and timely contributions from Bader Abdulla Malabes and Mohammed Buallay helped them seal the win.
The result was Muharraq’s fourth triumph in five games while Ahli suffered their first defeat.
American Will Artino and Buallay combined for 52 of the victors’ total output. Artino led all scorers with 28 while also grabbing 12 rebounds and registering five steals. Buallay had 24, including four three-pointers, to go with five rebounds and six assists. Both players played the entire 40 minutes.
Malabes and Alderazi brothers Mohammed and Ahmed each chipped in with eight markers.
Serbian Mile Ilic paced Ahli with 23 points and 16 rebounds. Ali Aqeel added 16 points and Hesham Sarhan finished with 15.
First
In yesterday’s other game, Samaheej claimed their first victory of the season following an 85-74 victory over Isa Town.
Antwan Wilkerson came one assist shy of a triple-double, finishing with 33 points, 15 rebounds and nine assists to lead Samaheej. Hussain Busafwan added 16 in the victory.
Mansoor Jaber paced Isa Town with 24 points. They suffered their fifth straight defeat.
League action continues tonight with Al Najma Club facing Bahrain Club at 6pm, followed at 7.45pm by Al Ettihad taking on Riffa.
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