The Basketball Africa League (BAL) quarterfinals in Kigali delivered an electrifying display of talent and fierce competition on day 2 (Saturday) of the thrilling Playoff match-ups.
The games unfolded with grit and dramatic endings. Here are the highlights.
GAME 1: PETRO DE LUANDA vs US MONASTIR
* Tipoff: 2:30 PM
* A nail-biting match that came down to just 3 points.
* Firas Lahyani, the starting center for US Monastir, led the charge with an impressive 19 points and 9 rebounds. His game-winning buzzer-beater 3-pointer sealed the victory.
* Monastir’s George Williams and Ater Majok also contributed significantly, scoring 12 and 17 points, respectively.
* Petro de Luanda entered the final five minutes of the game leading by eight (65-57), but Monastir’s 10-0 run changed the course of the game.
* This win was a statement for the 2022 BAL champions, who had initially struggled in the qualifying games of the Sahara conference, starting 0-3. Their victory improved their record to 4-3.
GAME 2: AS DOUANNES vs RIVERS HOOPERS
* Tipoff: 5:30 PM
* Rwandan artist Kenny Sol electrified the crowd with his halftime performance.
* AS Douannes, last year’s finalists, dominated the first half, leading 37-23 at halftime.
* In the second half, AS Douannes continued their offensive onslaught with an alley-oop, a 3-pointer, and a layup.
* Despite a strong showing from Rivers Hoopers, AS Douannes maintained their lead.
* As the clock ticked down, Rivers Hoopers fought back, cutting the lead to 7 points with just 1 minute remaining.
* However, it was too little, too late. Rivers Hoopers fell short, losing 63-57 to AS Douannes in the BAL Quarterfinals day 2.
* Harouna Abdoulaye of AS Douannes finished with a game-high 16 points and 4 rebounds.
The BAL continues to be a showcase for top-tier basketball talent from across Africa, and these quarterfinals were no exception! You don’t want to miss out on the Finals. Get your tickets today at bal.nba.com
