Al Ahli Tripoli Shines in 2025 Road to BAL West Division Elite 16 Opener
By Esther E. Otto
The 2025 Road to BAL West Division Elite 16 commenced in Abidjan with a thrilling start, highlighted by a standout performance from Al Ahli Tripoli Sport. The Libyan champions showcased their prowess with a commanding 99-75 victory over Liberia’s Mighty Barrolle, asserting their dominance early in the competition.
Despite undergoing roster changes, Al Ahli Tripoli’s revamped lineup proved formidable on the court, led by the impressive Deng Angok Yak Deng. The South Sudanese forward delivered a stellar performance, scoring 25 points on efficient shooting, while also contributing 8 rebounds and 4 assists, making a significant impact on the game.
Supported by strong showings from Kavell Bigby-Williams and Kevin Murphy, Al Ahli Tripoli controlled the game from start to finish. A dominant 56-31 lead at halftime set the tone for their performance, ultimately securing a comfortable 24-point victory.
On a different court, the matchup between Chaux Sports and Moanda Basket provided an intense battle. While Chaux Sports emerged victorious in their previous encounter, Moanda Basket turned the tables with a remarkable 72-65 win, ending Chaux Sports’ unbeaten streak.
Rachez Missouma led the charge for Moanda Basket with an impressive double-double, recording 21 points and 11 rebounds, showcasing his versatility and impact on the game. The thrilling encounter saw N’fali Kanoute’s crucial three-pointer forcing overtime, where the Malian champions secured a hard-fought 90-80 victory.
As the competition progresses, the 2025 Road to BAL West Division Elite 16 promises more exciting matchups and captivating moments, setting the stage for intense battles and memorable performances in the quest for basketball supremacy.