Al Najma Hold On as Samaheej Dominate Isa Town

TDT | Manama

Email : hussainm@newsofbahrain.com

Al Najma and Samaheej delivered standout results last night in the Zain Bahrain Basketball League at the BBA Arena in Um Al Hassam, with Al Najma edging Al Ahli 77–74 in a fascinating matchup, while Samaheej ran past Isa Town 76–52 in a more dominant performance.

In the early game, both teams opened aggressively, trading baskets through the first quarter. Al Ahli’s Elijah Tillman powered inside with key layups, while Hussain Salman attacked the rim to keep his side close. Al Najma countered with Hassan Fahad’s jumpers and Donovan Smith’s inside presence, leaving the first-quarter score 17–18 in favor of Al Ahli.

By halftime, Al Najma stayed within striking distance as Ahmed Aldurazi and Smith converted second‑chance points, with Fahad continuing to score mid-range shots. Al Ahli remained competitive behind Tillman, Maitham Jameel, and Hesham Sarhan. Missed free throws and turnovers defined the second quarter, with the score 35–37 at the break.

In the third quarter, Al Najma asserted themselves with tougher defense and cleaner execution. Fahad stayed hot, while Smith altered shots inside. Al Ahli’s balanced scoring kept the deficit manageable, ending the quarter 60–54 to Al Najma. In the final period, Aldurazi’s clutch free throws extended the lead, and Al Ahli could not respond, giving Al Najma a hard‑fought 77–74 win.

Later, Samaheej set the tone early against Isa Town. After a competitive first quarter, Joe Mvuezolo and Salman Alkaabi sparked a run, and by halftime Samaheej led 41–25. Third-quarter dominance stretched the advantage to 52–36, and consistent defensive pressure stifled Isa Town. Samaheej sealed a 76–52 victory, led by Mvuezolo.

The Zain Basketball League continues tonight at the BBA Arena with Bahrain Club vs Al Ettihad at 6 PM, followed by Manama vs Nuwaidrat at 8 PM.