Manama Rally Past Al Najma to Reach Finals

TDT | Manama

Email : hussainm@newsofbahrain.com

Manama secured their place in the 2025-2026 Zain Bahrain Basketball League finals with a 75-71 victory over Al Najma, winning the semi-final series 3-1. Al Najma had taken the opening game, but Manama responded by winning the next three contests, including last night’s thrilling decider.

The 25-time champions, coached by Bahraini Salman Ramadhan, will now face fourtime and reigning champions Muharraq in a best-of-five format starting Wednesday. Muharraq booked their spot by sweeping Al Ahli in three straight games, setting up a blockbuster finale.

For Manama, it is also a chance for redemption after The Red Wolves defeated them in last month’s Khalifa bin Salman Cup final. Manama started yesterday’s game strongly, taking the first quarter 25-23. Ali Jaber imposed himself inside early while Ahmed Salman stretched the defense with timely three-pointers. Al Najma had opportunities but missed shots and struggled for second-chance points, allowing Manama to finish the quarter slightly ahead.

Al Najma bounced back in the second, claiming a 46-43 halftime lead. Ali Aqeel attacked the rim aggressively, drew fouls, and converted all four of his free throws. Donovan Smith contributed efficiently inside and Al Najma’s bench added 30 points. Manama remained strong on the boards but their offense lacked consistency.

The third quarter proved decisive. Early on, Jaber dominated in the paint, orchestrating the attack with precise passes, while Ahmed Salman provided perimeter support. Al Najma struggled with turnovers and cold three-point shooting, allowing Manama to take control and enter the final period leading 57-56.

The fourth quarter was tense and physical. With just over seven minutes remaining, Aqeel tied the game at 66-66 with a three-pointer. Manama responded immediately, with Jaber and Salman scoring both inside and from distance. With two minutes left, Jaber extended the lead to 73-66. Al Najma fought back, closing the gap to 73-71 through Mohamed Kuwayed, but a missed three-pointer and a 24-second violation ended their comeback hopes. Salman sealed the victory with two crucial free throws in the closing seconds.

Ali Jaber was named man of the match with 21 points, 13 rebounds, eight assists, and nine of 11 two-pointers, completing a dominant double-double and near triple-double performance.