Muharraq force rubber match in FIBA WASL play-off

TDT | Manama                                                      

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain’s Muharraq Club sent their Gulf sub-zone best-of-three play-off against Shabab Al Ahli Dubai to a decisive third game in the 2023/2024 FIBA West Asia Super League (WASL).

The Bahrainis routed their Emirati counterparts 116-75 in game two of their elimination clash at Sheikh Saeed Bin Maktoum Sports Hall, bouncing back from an 87-97 defeat at home in their first meeting.

Both Muharraq and Shabab Al Ahli are vying for a spot in the Gulf semi-finals, where they will face FIBA WASL defending champions Manama of Bahrain.

The rubber match is scheduled for Monday next week in the Kingdom, with Muharraq getting a chance to play in front of their home fans.

In last night’s encounter, Muharraq had a strong start and led 24-13 at the end of the first period.

They stretched their advantage to 56-37 at the break, and never let up in the second half.

The Bahrainis headed into the final frame up 87-58, and by game’s end enjoyed leads as big as 42 points late in the fourth. Muharraq were on fire from beyond the three-point line, burying 21 triples from 44 attempts.

Bader Abdulla Malabes was red hot in the game and had 31 points to lead four players with over 20. Hussain Salman chipped in with 25, while Rickey Ledo had a triple double with 23 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists.

Mohammed Juma’a added 21 in the win. Nicolas Minnerath was the top scorer for Shabab Al Ahli with 21 points.

Should Muharraq advance to the semis, those games will also be played in best-of-three format starting on March 26.

Game two is set for April 2, and game three, should it be needed, will be on April 16.