Relentless Muharraq Leave Al Hala Behind

TDT | Manama

Email : hussainm@newsofbahrain.com

Champions Muharraq delivered one of their most dominant performances of the season, overwhelming Al Hala 97–67 last night at the BBA Arena in Um Al Hassam and solidifying their status as favourites in the Zain Bahrain Basketball League title race. Under head coach Peter Shommers, Muharraq have been in fine form, coming off wins over Nuwaidrat, Al Ahli, and Manama in the Super Cup final, and look well-placed to retain the title.

The opening quarter was competitive, with Al Hala’s Joshua Corey, Ahmed Khalifa, and Hussain Jan keeping their side close. Muharraq gradually took control through Mohamed Nasser and Wayne Chism’s early layups, while Himothy Lamount added a key three-pointer and inside points, giving Muharraq a 21–10 lead by the end of the period.

In the second quarter, Muharraq pulled away decisively. Nasser scored multiple layups and free throws, eventually totaling 22 points, while Ali Hussain Rashed contributed drives and a three-pointer. Chism’s mid-range shooting and defensive rebounds fuelled fast breaks, with Lamount and Mohamed Ameer adding timely baskets. Al Hala’s Corey (11 points), Jan, and Khalifa (9 each) briefly kept their team in the contest, but turnovers and missed shots limited their challenge. By halftime, Muharraq held a comfortable lead.

The third quarter saw Muharraq extend their dominance. Rashed and Nasser orchestrated fast breaks and scored layups, Chism added jumpers, and Lamount’s dunks and assists highlighted their offensive fluidity, leaving Al Hala struggling. Even Corey’s late free throws and Alwatheq Ali’s layups could not reduce the deficit.

In the final quarter, Muharraq sealed the win with Nasser’s tip-ins and driving layups, Chism’s jump shots, and contributions from Ameer and Rashed, finishing 97–67.

The Zain Basketball League continues today at Um Al Hassam Arena, with Isa Town facing Samaheej at 6 PM, followed by Al Najma against Al Ahli at 8 PM.