MUSCAT: In an action-packed on Monday evening at the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex in Bausher, the 2023-24 Oman Basketball League witnessed Seeb and Nizwa clinching commanding victories against their respective rivals.
In the first match-up, Seeb showcased remarkable resilience as they overcame an early deficit to trounce Ahli Sidab with a staggering 45-point difference. The game saw stellar performances from Seeb players, including Abdulrashid al Zahibi, Ahmed al Sinani, American professional player Bryce, Al Waqas al Hanai, Mazin al Hadidi and Ahmed al Maamari. On the opposing side for Ahli Sidab, Ahmed al Hasani and Hamyer al Hasani stood out.
The opening quarter was a tightly contested affair, with Ahli Sidab taking the lead with a three-pointer from Ahmed al Hasani. However, Seeb quickly responded with a three-pointer of their own by Al Waqas al Hanai. The game remained thrilling, featuring a flurry of attacks, and Seeb’s Rashid al Zahibi contributed with a two-point shot from beneath the basket. Ahli Sidab managed to add four points through Mohammed al Battashi and Walid al Hattali. The first quarter ended with Ahli Sidab narrowly ahead at 14-10.
The second quarter witnessed a shift in momentum, as Seeb seized control by narrowing the gap. Ahmed al Maamari and Abdulaziz al Balushi were among the scorers for Seeb, while Ahmed al Hasani of Ahli Sidab added two points with a close-range shot. The teams continued to trade blows, and Seeb’s Nouh al Balushi brought the scores level with a three-pointer, resulting in a 16-16 tie at the half. As the quarter progressed, both teams displayed offensive prowess and Seeb entered the half-time break with a 25-20 lead.
The third quarter saw Seeb continue to press their advantage, scoring an impressive 32 points, while Ahli Sidab managed only five. By the end of the third quarter, Seeb held a comfortable 57-25 lead.
In the final quarter, Seeb extended their dominance, scoring an additional 26 points, while Ahli Sidab could only muster 13 points. The match concluded with Seeb securing a convincing 83-38 victory.
The match was overseen by an experienced panel of officials. Yemeni international referee Taha al Hashidi served as head referee, while international referee Ahmed al Khshaibi officiated as second referee and Mazin al Hilali was third referee. The table officials for the match were Juma al Hanai, Huda al Hanai and Fatima al Harthy.
NIZWA DOMINATE SALALAH
In the second game of the evening, Nizwa emerged victorious, defeating Salalah with a resounding score of 93-57. The contest saw Nizwa exhibit superior offensive and defensive prowess, with standout performances from their professionals, including Neveur Mord, Musab al Riyami, Mohammed al Anqoodi and Saif al Toubi. Salalah’s Qaisar al Balushi, Faisal Bait Abd al Nabi and Mohammed al Houti also showcased their talents.
The opening quarter set the tone for the match, with Nizwa accumulating 23 points, while Salalah could only manage eight. In the second quarter, the teams continued to battle, with Nizwa adding 23 points and Salalah contributing 13 points. This established a commanding 46-21 lead for Nizwa at half-time.
The third quarter saw Nizwa extend their advantage further by adding 19 points, while Salalah managed only nine points. The quarter ended with Nizwa holding a commanding 65-40 lead.
In the final quarter, Nizwa continued to dominate offensively, with their players scoring 32 points, while Salalah added 17 points. The match concluded with Nizwa securing an emphatic 93-57 victory over Salalah.
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