BAL: REG Dominant, SALE Revived

The Rwanda Energy Group (REG) have brought in loads of energy and more in this season’s Basketball Africa League, as they now count 2 wins and no loss in two matches.

The winners of Rwanda’s NBL, coached by Robert Pack won in their second outing on Wednesday March 9 against Guinean reps. Slack, in game 6 of the championship.

REG started in slick fashion and had a 5 to ‘O’ run in the opening stages of the first quarter. 33-year-old Kambuy Manga was being an absolute pain and attacked SLACK’s defense with huge success.

SLACK however, in their never die attitude, just like they showed in their win against DUC, came back powerfully and both teams were tied at the break (42-42).

SLACK returned and looked the fresher of both sides, especially in the dying seconds of the third quarter.

George Junior’s attempt from down town at the end of the third quarter gifted SLACK a 66-61 lead, and it wasn’t just a compliment, given the fine show by the men of Željko Zečević.

In what appeared to be a back and forth fourth quarter, REG came out atop their opponents once more, to claim the tie 83-81, following an enthralling buzzer beater.

BAL elevate player Jean Jacque Wilson was voted most valuable baller on the night with an impressive 15 points, four assists and four steals.

It takes REG’s record in the championship to two wins; against SALE and SLACK.

Moroccan representatives AS Sale were up against Mozambiquan juggernauts Clube Ferroviaro in game 7 of the championship series, and game 2 on March 9.

SALE needed to come back from their earlier defeat against REG, and they showed that with their high intensity and transitional play, in the earlier stages of the ball game.

The Moroccans grabbed the first few points, but Clube Ferroviaro picked up the pieces, winning the first two quarters and led the tie at the break 50-46.

AS SALE making their second BAL appearance, popped up real big after the pose, and showed just why they have won the Moroccan championship 8 times, by finishing the game 94-84.

Shooting guard Terrell Stoglin played a big role in his team’s victory, netting 34 points, 8 assists and one rebound.

It was SALE’s first victory in the Sahara Conference, and they go up next against US Monastir on Friday.