Thunder’s hopes for BAL playoffs slot dashed in Kigali

In a high-octane Nile Conference clash, Al Ahli outclassed the Kenyan side with a 104-91 victory, marking City Thunder’s fourth loss in the competition.

Al Ahli Tripoli claimed the first three quarters in 32-24, 24-17, 27-18, before the Kenyan champions won the last quarter 32-21 as the Libyan champions became the first team in the Nile Conference to punch a ticket for the BAL playoffs finals scheduled for June 6-14.

The Libyan giants took control early and never let go, dominating both offensively and defensively.

At the heart of their triumph was Jean Jacques, who put on a stellar performance, scoring 26 points from 9-of-19 field goals and 3-of-8 3PT points, sealing his place as the game’s MVP.

Speaking in a post-match interview, a confident Jean Jacques declared the team’s ambitions extend beyond just qualification.

“I didn’t come here just to qualify. As long as it’s five-on-five, I’m here to win,” he said, underlining Al Ahli’s hunger for the championship, which remains unbeaten in the group stage.

For Nairobi City Thunder, the loss was a bitter pill to swallow. Despite flashes of brilliance, with their Power Forward Tyler Ongwae averaging 14 points and 6.3 rebounds, their defence struggled to contain Al Ahli’s aggressive offense, and their efforts to rally late in the game came too little, too late.

With the playoffs fast approaching, all eyes now turn to Pretoria, where Al Ahli Tripoli will seek to carry their momentum forward and compete for continental glory.

Thunder wind up the tourney against South Africa’s MBB and APR of Rwanda in return fixtures on Saturday and Sunday respectively.