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Sagesse regained momentum in the 34th Dubai International Tournament with a dominant victory over Zamboanga (Philippines) after suffering a loss against Tunisia. Now qualified for the quarter-finals, the Lebanese team must defeat al-Ahly Tripoli on Wednesday to avoid a fratricidal clash with Beirut Club in the next round.

The Greens Bounce Back

After a setback against the Tunisian national team, Sagesse responded authoritatively by defeating Zamboanga 90-65. Thanks to aggressive defense and an inspired offense, the Greens controlled three of the four quarters (26-8, 20-16, 21-26, 23-15).

American Shabazz Muhammad shined with 32 points and 8 rebounds, well supported by Gerard Hadidian (11 points, 7 rebounds) and Ahmad Ibrahim (11 points, 4 rebounds). Malcolm Thomas (9 points, 4 rebounds) and Omar Jamaleddine (8 points, 4 rebounds) also contributed.

On the other side, Zamboanga tried to compete through Adonis Michael Thomas (18 points, 5 rebounds) and Prince Caperal (18 points), but the gap in level was too significant.

Beirut Club Secures Victory Against the UAE (81-70)

Beirut Club recorded its third win in four games by defeating the UAE national team 81-70. The Lebanese team controlled the game with well-managed quarters (21-15, 27-18, 17-14, 16-23).

The American duo Ricky Ledo (21 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists) and Kenneth Kadji (14 points, 9 rebounds, 4 assists) were instrumental, while Ali Haidar registered a double-double (20 points, 12 rebounds). Sergio Darwiche (9 points) and Ali Mezher (5 points, 6 assists) also contributed.

For the UAE, Devante Foster (15 points, 5 rebounds) was the standout performer, followed by Qais Omar al-Shabibi (14 points, 4 rebounds) and Hamid Abdul Latif (13 points).

Wednesday's Schedule

The final day of the group stage will be crucial for the final standings:

• 1:00 PM : United Arab Emirates – Al-Nasr
• 3:00 PM : Tunisia – Zamboanga
• 5:00 PM : Sagesse – Al-Ahly Tripoli
• 7:00 PM: Strong Group – Oman United

The match between Sagesse and al-Ahly Tripoli will be decisive. A victory would allow the Greens to avoid a direct confrontation with Beirut Club in the quarter-finals, adding extra tension to this crucial encounter.