Manama aim to bounce back vs Kuwait SC

Bahrain’s Manama Club face an important match today against Kuwait SC in the 37th Arab Basketball Championship for Men’s Clubs, currently unfolding in Dubai. After opening the tournament with back-to-back defeats, Manama are desperate to avoid an early exit from the preliminary round. The tip-off is scheduled for 3pm Bahrain time at Shaikh Rashid Bin Hamdan Indoor Hall.

Manama were routed 78–103 by Libya’s Al Ahly Tripoli in their second Group B game, with the hosts blowing them away in a first quarter that ended 43–8. Although Manama steadied somewhat in the middle quarters, outscoring Ahly in the second and third periods, the deficit proved insurmountable. Daniel Hamilton led the effort with 19 points, 10 rebounds, and 11 assists, but also turned the ball over seven times. Hasan Nowrooz’s 17 points, including five triples, and Subah Hussain’s 13 offered glimpses of resistance.

Kuwait challenge

Kuwait SC have yet to face Manama in this edition, but the Bahrainis cannot afford another sluggish start. Defensive cohesion and execution on transition will be critical if they hope to reverse their fortunes. Hamilton’s ability to orchestrate and limit mistakes will likely define Manama’s chances.

Road to the knockouts

Only a win will give Manama a shot at advancing from the preliminary phase. The top eight match-ups for the knockout stage are already taking shape, with quarter-finals set for Saturday. For the Bahrainis, today’s result could determine whether they fight for progression or face an early elimination.