Al Ittihad Alexandria flex muscles in statement win over Rivers Hoopers

Al Ittihad Alexandria flex muscles in statement win over Rivers Hoopers

Al Ittihad Alexandria continued their perfect run in the Basketball Africa League Kalahari Conference with a dominant 100-80 win over Rivers Hoopers on Tuesday evening, in a highly anticipated battle between two previously unbeaten teams. With both sides coming into the game riding momentum, it was the Egyptian powerhouse that stepped up to make a loud and clear statement: they are here to contend—and they mean business.

From the tip off, Al Ittihad showed a level of intensity that caught Rivers Hoopers off guard. Spearheaded by an explosive Kyle Vinales, the Alexandrian side imposed their rhythm on both ends of the court, dictating the pace and taking control of the game early.

Vinales was on fire throughout the contest, delivering a masterclass performance that earned him MVP honors. The Puerto Rican guard finished with 26 points, drilling six shots from beyond the arc, and added 7 rebounds and 6 assists to round out a complete game. His leadership and shot-making were critical in swinging the momentum firmly in favor of the Egyptian side.

“We had a little bit more motivation because they were also undefeated. So we wanted to come and show that we are the top dog right now,” Vinales said post-game, his voice full of conviction.

It wasn’t just Vinales putting in the work. George King played with poise and efficiency, adding 23 points and going a perfect 11-for-11 from the free-throw line. The sharp-shooting wing kept the scoreboard ticking and played a key role in stretching the Hoopers’ defense.

Al Ittihad’s offensive balance was further highlighted by strong showings from Ibrahim Abdelrahman Mohamed, who chipped in 17 points, and Majok Machar Deng, who added 13. Four players finished in double digits, and the team as a whole shot with confidence and cohesion.

But perhaps more impressive than their offensive output was Al Ittihad’s commitment on defense and their ability to play as a unit. They outrebounded the Nigerian team 41 to 29 and dished out 21 assists, showcasing their unselfish style of play and tactical discipline.

“It was a team performance. This is what we’re going to keep moving forward. We want to share the ball, find a hot hand and play defense as a unit,” Vinales emphasized, echoing the mindset that has become the team’s trademark in this tournament.

Despite the early energy from the Hoopers, who stayed close in the first quarter (25-23), Al Ittihad began to break the game open in the second. A strong 27-19 run before halftime gave them breathing room, and the momentum carried over into the third quarter, which they won 29-23. By the time the fourth quarter arrived, the outcome felt inevitable. Al Ittihad calmly closed the game with a 19-15 final frame, completing their 20-point win.

To their credit, Rivers Hoopers had four players score in double digits—Madut Akec (18 points), Raphael Putney (17), Kelvin Amayo (14), and Shamba Maxi Munanga (11)—but they lacked the defensive consistency and offensive rhythm to keep up with the Egyptians' relentless pace. The Nigerian side struggled to string together stops, and their rebounding woes made it nearly impossible to mount a comeback.

Vinales, while pleased with the team’s victory, also took a moment to reflect on his personal form, admitting he had a slower start to the tournament.

“We played well as a team. But individually, the first two games were not this good for me. Overall, our defense was good, but I wanted to come and make some shots,” he said.

With three more games left in the group phase, Al Ittihad Alexandria are not only unbeaten—they’re playing with purpose and unity. Their chemistry is undeniable, and their message to the rest of the field is crystal clear: this is a team built for the long run.

If they keep up this level of play, it’s going to take a special effort from any opponent to knock them off their path.

[Photography/Imagery : Cheick Haidara/FIBA/BAL]

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