Al Ittihad of Egypt extended their perfect start to the 2025 Basketball Africa League with a commanding 100-80 victory over Nigerian champions Rivers Hoopers in Rabat, Morocco, on Tuesday,
The Egyptian side, who have now won all three of their games, proved too strong for the Nigerian team who have also won their previous two games in the Kalahari Conference.
Rivers Hoopers came out with determination in the opening quarter, staying strong with Al Ittihad and managing to keep the score tight at 23-25.
However, despite their performance, they struggled to contain Al Ittihad’s offensive power, especially from Kyle Vinales, who had a game-high 26 points.
The Egyptians pulled away in the second quarter, with the combination of Vinales’ perimeter shooting and a series of turnovers from the Hoopers giving them a 10-point advantage at halftime, leading 52-42.
The third quarter saw Rivers Hoopers attempt to fight back but Al Ittihad’s defense remained resolute to stop Madut Akec and Raphael Putney, who each scored 18 and 17 points, respectively, making it difficult for the Nigerian side to close the gap.
The Egyptians then capitalised on their dominance pushing the score to 81-65 by the end of the third period.
In the final quarter, Rivers Hoopers made a last-ditch effort to reduce the deficit, but Al Ittihad’s composure and strong attack allowed them to maintain their advantage. and the Egyptians recorded a comfortable 100-80 win.
Editor Paul Akhagbemhe
