Champions Muharraq Show Title Intent

TDT | Manama

Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

Muharraq, the reigning champions, looked every bit of their title-winning pedigree as they defeated Al Ahli 77–60 last night at the BBA Arena in Um Al Hassam. The match, part of the Zain Bahrain Basketball League, was close in the first half, but Muharraq pulled away with a comfortable performance in the second. With games in hand over the teams above them in the standings, the Red Wolves have already sent a strong message: they are very much in the hunt for their 36th league title, under the guidance of German basketball coach Peter Shommers, who was appointed in October.

The reigning champions entered the matchweek on the back of wins against Nuwaidrat in the league and Manama in the Super Cup final. Al Ahli, meanwhile, had a win against Al Hala but lost to Manama in their previous outing.

Muharraq started strong, with Mohamed Nasser and Ali Hussain Rashed combining for early baskets to give the Red Wolves a slight edge. Al Ahli struggled to find rhythm, with missed shots and turnovers keeping them behind. Hasan Ali Ghareeb and American import Elijah Tillman sparked small runs for Al Ahli, but veteran Wayne Chism anchored Muharraq with strong rebounding and scoring around the basket. By halftime, Muharraq led 27–22.

The third quarter proved pivotal. Muharraq extended their lead as Kerwin Roach, Mahmood Abbas Isa, and Rashed scored in quick succession. Al Ahli threatened briefly when Maitham Jameel hit multiple three-pointers, bringing the deficit down to a single point. Muharraq responded immediately, with consecutive threes from Isa and Mohamed Ameer, finishing the quarter ahead 49–42.

In the fourth, Muharraq’s balanced attack proved decisive. Roach contributed timely threes and smart passing, while Chism continued to dominate the boards. Hamad Faisal and Tillman tried to spark a comeback for Al Ahli, but turnovers and rushed shots kept them at bay. Top performers for Muharraq included Rashed and Roach with 14 points each, Nasser with 12, Isa with 11, and Chism with 10. For Al Ahli, Jameel led with 13 points, followed by Faisal with 11 and Sarhan with 10. Key baskets from Nasser, Rashed, and Isa helped Muharraq maintain a comfortable lead, ultimately sealing a 17-point victory.

Muharraq will face Al Hala on December 11 at 7:30 PM, while Al Ahli take on Sitra on December 12 at 8 PM. Both matches will be played at the Um Al Hassam Arena.