1. Home
2. Sports
3. Basketball: Riyadi Dominates Beirut Club and Claims the “Regular Season” Throne

The Yellows crushed an unrecognizable Beirut Club on the Chiyah court (110–72) to wrap up the regular season at the top of the standings. In the other key weekend game, Champville got their revenge on Homenetmen with a clear win (112–96).

A yellow hurricane swept through the Chiyah arena. Led by a bulldozing Thon Maker and a dazzling playmaking display from Wael Arakji, Ahmad Farran’s squad delivered a top-level team performance to overpower a Beirut Club that looked out of sorts and overwhelmed. Final score: 110–72, giving Riyadi a solid grip on first place going into the playoffs.

 

Riyadi’s Well-Oiled Machine

 

From the opening minutes, Riyadi set the pace. A 34–17 first quarter blew out Beirut’s hopes, as they found themselves chasing the score early. By halftime, Riyadi led 60–32, playing fluid basketball, pressing effectively, and shooting with deadly accuracy.

 

Thon Maker was dominant (25 pts, 13 rebounds), while Wael Arakji ran the show like a true maestro (20 pts, 5 assists). Hayk Gyokchyan (16 pts), Amir Saoud (13 pts), and the eternal veteran Ismaïl Ahmad (8 pts, 6 rebounds, 4 assists) also shone.

 

On the other side, Beirut Club never found their rhythm. Neither the leadership of Ali Haidar (15 pts) nor the efforts of Joe Young (15 pts, 4 assists) were enough. Key players like Mezher and Darwiche underperformed, and the team struggled both on the boards and in transition.

 

Champville Gets Revenge in Mezher

 

In the evening’s other big game, Champville avenged their first-leg loss by beating Homenetmen on their home court in Mezher (112–96). The win was built on sheer physical dominance and sharp outside shooting.

 

Henry Sims dominated the paint (23 pts, 29 rebounds!), with support from American snipers Javeon Blake and Matthew Mobley (25 pts each). Karim Ezzedine (18 pts) and Ryan Zanbaka (15 pts) provided excellent support for the team’s core.

 

On Homenetmen’s side, Jordan Stevens fought hard (27 pts, 11 assists, 4 steals), but his team lacked impact and rebounding strength (32 rebounds compared to 60). It was a tough night despite efforts from Gaby Ajamian (17 pts) and Landers Nolley (12 pts, 2 blocks).

 

 

Final Regular Season Standings

 

With this 19th win (and just one loss), Riyadi finishes first in the regular season with 39 points, ahead of Beirut Club (17–3, 37 points, but beaten twice by Riyadi) and La Sagesse (also 37 points). Champville can aim for 5th place if they win their two remaining games.

 

 

Playoffs Incoming

 

The Yellows head into the playoffs with home-court advantage and sky-high confidence. Coach Ahmad Farran seems to have found the winning formula, blending confirmed stars, team play, and experience.

 

But challengers are ready: La Sagesse aims to rise again, Beirut Club remains a powerhouse capable of bouncing back, and Champville is gaining momentum.

 

“It’s only one game, a painful one, but we need to quickly get back to work. We know what we’re capable of,” said a member of Beirut Club’s technical staff after the game.

 

Riyadi Sends a Message

 

Riyadi didn’t just secure first place—they did it with authority. By winning in dominant fashion, they sent a clear message: the king of the regular season wears yellow, speaks loudly, and isn’t done yet.