Basketball – WASL: La Sagesse with Its Back Against the Wall vs. Al-Difaa
Shabazz Muhammad, just like La Sagesse, must rise again to stay in the race. ©Photo: FIBA-WASL

Against the wall after a first frustrating setback, La Sagesse must absolutely bounce back on Wednesday night against Al-Difaa. But the Iraqis, tough and combative, have no intention of playing a supporting role. A high-intensity duel is expected.

Beaten at the buzzer in their opening game against Tabiat, La Sagesse has no room for error. Tonight (7:00 PM), the Greens have everything to play for against the Iraqis of Al-Difaa, a scrappy opponent that never backs down.

Mandatory Reaction for the Green Castle

La Sagesse let slip a game they should have wrapped up against Tabiat (88-87), undone by late-game mistakes and a dagger shot with 33 seconds left on the clock. A nightmare scenario that already puts Ahmad Ibrahim and his teammates under pressure. Zach Lofton (25 points) and Shabazz Muhammad (24 points) put on a show, but the team lacked control in crunch time. They will need to adjust and show a different face.

Al-Difaa: A Relentless Underdog

Don’t be fooled by their 0-2 record—Al-Difaa is a team that plays with heart. Led by their anchor Ihab Al-Zuhairi (15.5 points, 11.5 rebounds) and former NBA player Jordan Hamilton, the Iraqis are no pushovers. They nearly took down Tabiat and battle for every possession like their lives depend on it. A team that plays tough, defends hard, and never gives up.

A High-Stakes Showdown

La Sagesse has no choice: win or sink deeper into doubt. To avoid a second setback, they will need to be more aggressive defensively, manage key moments better, and, above all, show mental toughness. There’s no way they can allow themselves to be outplayed at home. Tonight, it's about pride and ambition. The Greens must send a strong message and prove they are true title contenders.

 

 

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