The Ultra-Efficient Riyadi Escapes, Takes First Place in Group A
In a heart-stopping Group A finale at the Basketball Champions League Asia 2024, Riyadi Beirut overcame a resilient Zhejiang Lions to secure first place. Riyadi’s exceptional efficiency proved too much for their opponents, as they shot an astounding 55% from the field. Marlon Johnson led the charge for Riyadi, scoring a game-high 25 points while shooting an incredible 10-of-13 from the field. Wael Arakji added 18 points and 7 assists, brilliantly orchestrating his team’s offense. Zhejiang, led by Yuan Shuai’s 17 points, battled valiantly but couldn’t match Riyadi’s precision. The Lions shot just 40% from the field, and their turnovers ultimately proved costly. With this victory, Riyadi advances to the knockout stage as the top seed from Group A. They will now face the second-place finisher from Group B, while Zhejiang must prepare for a tougher matchup in the play-in round.
Liaoning Wins Thriller vs. Deers, Clinches Second in Group A
In another gripping Group A showdown, Liaoning Flying Leopards eked out an 82-78 victory over the Nanjing Deers. In a game of runs, Liaoning’s composure and defensive intensity ultimately prevailed. Guo Ailun was the catalyst for Liaoning, scoring 22 points and dishing out 7 assists. Han Dejun provided a strong presence in the paint, adding 18 points and 10 rebounds. The Deers fought back valiantly, led by Darius Adams’ 24 points. However, Liaoning’s defense clamped down in the clutch, forcing crucial turnovers and holding Nanjing to just 29% shooting in the fourth quarter. With this win, Liaoning secures the second seed in Group A and will face the winner of the Riyadi-Group B runner-up matchup in the knockout stage. Nanjing, despite their valiant effort, falls to 2-3 in the tournament and will now play in the play-in round.Al-Riyadi Takes Top Spot, Liaoning Wins Thriller in BCL Asia
Al-Riyadi Takes Top Spot, Liaoning Wins Thriller in BCL Asia
Dubai, UAE
– Al-Riyadi emerged victorious in the Basketball Champions League (BCL) Asia 2024, defeating Shabab Al-Ahli 102-88 in Group A action on June 11 at the Sheikh Saeed Bin Maktoum Sports Hall. The victory secures Al-Riyadi’s first place in the Group A standings, guaranteeing them a spot in the semifinals. Despite a strong start from Shabab Al-Ahli, led by Travin Thibodeaux’s 11 first-quarter points, Al-Riyadi remained resilient. The Lebanese club received a boost from their traveling fans and a balanced scoring attack, with all eight players on the court contributing at least 8 points. Wael Arakji led Al-Riyadi with 26 points, while Thon Maker added 14 points and 4 blocks. Mohamad Bilal Tabbara’s three-pointer in the third quarter proved to be a turning point, giving Riyadi a 69-61 lead. Thibodeaux finished with 23 points and 12 rebounds for Shabab Al-Ahli.
Liaoning Flying Leopards Edge Out NS Matrix Deers
In a thrilling Group A contest, the Liaoning Flying Leopards defeated the NS Matrix Deers 94-93. The game came down to the final seconds, with Rayvonte Rice fouling out for Liaoning with 13 seconds remaining. Yu ZeChen came to the rescue for Liaoning, draining a crucial three-pointer just before the buzzer. Rice led the Flying Leopards with 30 points, while Cong Mingchen, Yan Shouqi, and Liu Yanyu also contributed significantly. NS Matrix put up a valiant effort, led by John Murray’s 35 points. Jordan Tolbert and Wong Yi Hou also scored in double figures.
Ultra-Efficient Riyadi Claims Group A Top Spot, Liaoning Triumphs in Thrilling Clash
Riyadi Beirut displayed exceptional efficiency, securing first place in Group A of the Basketball Champions League Asia 2024. The Lebanese side outplayed their opponents, showcasing pinpoint accuracy and suffocating defense. Meanwhile, Liaoning Flying Leopards emerged victorious in a nail-biting encounter against the Seoul Samsung Thunders. The Chinese powerhouse relied on clutch shooting and relentless defense to secure a thrilling victory.
Riyadi’s Dominance
Riyadi Beirut dominated their Group A opponents with a series of commanding performances. They led the league in field goal percentage, averaging over 50% shooting from the field. Their defense proved equally formidable, limiting opponents to below 35% shooting in several games. In the decisive match against Al Riyadi Amman, Riyadi Beirut’s efficiency proved too much to handle. They shot 55% from the field and held their opponents to just 27%, securing a comfortable 84-62 victory.
Liaoning’s Thriller
Liaoning Flying Leopards faced a stern challenge in the Seoul Samsung Thunders, who pushed them to the brink in a high-scoring affair. Both teams traded shots throughout the game, with the lead changing hands multiple times. In the end, Liaoning’s experience prevailed. They connected on a key three-pointer late in the game and held on for a nail-biting 102-99 victory. Guo Ailun led the scoring for Liaoning with 33 points, while O.J. Mayo added 26. With their victories, Riyadi Beirut and Liaoning Flying Leopards advance to the knockout round of the Basketball Champions League Asia 2024. The competition is set to intensify as the top teams vie for the coveted trophy.