Shahrdari Loses to Al Riyadi in FIBA WASL-West Asia Final
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – Al Riyadi successfully defended its FIBA WASL-West Asia League championship after beating Shahrdari Gorgan, 100-78, in the winner-take-all Game 3 of the Final, Wednesday night at a packed Stade Nouhad Nowfal in Zouk Mikael.
Thon Maker came back after missing Game 2 due to an injury and proved to be the difference anew, scoring 10 of his 23 points in the second quarter alone to lead the breakaway. He also collected 12 rebounds and 4 blocks to win his first title in the pan-regional tilt.
Elmedin Kikanovic also finished with 23 points alongside 5 rebounds as the veteran center helped the Lebanese powerhouse set the tone early in the first quarter.
Amir Saoud produced 17 points, 2 rebounds, and 4 rebounds. The starting backcourt tandem of Wael Arakji and Jonathon Simmons, meanwhile, delivered 12 points apiece.
Al Riyadi and Shahrdari, which were also the protagonists of the inaugural West Asia Final, will represent the Sub-Zone League along with third-placer Sagesse in the FIBA WASL Final 8.
FIBA WASL-West Asia League Final Standings
1 - Al Riyadi
2 - Shahrdari Gorgan
3 - Sagesse
4 - Al Shorta