Game Report: In a thrilling match-up, Bangui displayed their dominance over City Oilers with a commanding 101-88 victory. From the opening tip-off to the final buzzer, Bangui showcased their skill and strategy, leaving little room for their opponents to gain momentum.
Last Updated on
April 21, 2024
Fanya Nkengasong
Staff Writer
Anticipation was at its peak as the underdogs, Bangui and City Oilers, clashed in a pivotal match on the second day of the Nile Conference. The winner of this match would take a significant step towards qualification as the top third team in the group, a position both teams were vying for. Despite facing tough competition from powerhouse squads like the two Al Ahly teams, Bangui and City Oilers were determined to prove their mettle.
Bangui, seeking redemption after their defeat against Al Ahly Benghazi, faced a City Oilers team aiming to confirm their performance. Led by standout player Maluach Khaman, who scored eighteen points, City Oilers were a force to be reckoned with. The matchup between Khaman and his NBA Academy teammate, Thierry Darlan, promised an intense showdown, with both players delivering impressive performances. The game started competitively, with several ties and City Oilers edging ahead by three points at the end of the first quarter, 23-26.
The battle between the two young stars remained tight, with Khaman leading the scoring with 14 points, closely followed by Darlan with 10 points at the end of the first quarter. The second period saw Bangui gain momentum, especially with outside shots from Evans Ganapamo, pushing their lead to 17 points. Despite City Oilers' efforts to narrow the gap, Bangui maintained a slight advantage of seven points at halftime, leading 50-47.
While City Oilers capitalised on counterattacks, Bangui's solid defence and limited rotations kept them in control. However, City Oilers rallied in the third quarter, winning the period but still trailing by five points, 75-70. With everything on the line, the stage was set for a thrilling final quarter showdown.
With just five minutes left, Bangui held a commanding twelve-point lead, 87-75, indicating a likely victory for the team. As the game drew to a close, it became evident that City Oilers would not mount a comeback. Instead, Bangui extends its lead, securing the win with a comfortable 13-point margin. Despite the loss, the City Oilers found solace in Maluach Khaman's performance, as he outscored Thierry Darlan 29-22 in their personal match-up.
The game concludes with Bangui emerging victorious with a final score of 101-88.
