- 10:15
Pushed by a fiery crowd and a heroic fourth-quarter comeback, Sagesse believed they could level the series. But Riyadi, unshaken in overtime, regained control of their destiny.
It was almost a miracle in Ghazir. Backed by nearly 2,500 ecstatic fans, Sagesse came close to overturning a game they trailed for three quarters. Lost for most of the match, the Greens pulled off a spectacular comeback in the final minutes of regulation, forcing an overtime few would have imagined just moments earlier.
Fast Start
Right from the tip-off, Riyadi imposed its rhythm. Solid on defense and sharp in transition, the reigning champions quickly took control. Marcus Hunt was impactful on both ends, playing clean and efficient basketball, while Thon Maker dominated the paint with rebounds and blocks. Karim Zeinoun was highly active, driving into the lane and making a strong defensive impact, giving his team constant energy. Without their injured floor general Wael Arakji, the Yellow squad compensated with discipline and composure.
On the other side, Sagesse had a slow start. Sloppy and imprecise, they piled up technical errors. Still, Sekou Doumbouya fought for every possession. The French-Guinean forward was the only one playing at full intensity for three quarters – physical, relentless and determined to keep his team alive. He led the charge before being joined by Jihad al-Khatib, who was inconsistent in the closing stretch. Young Marc Khoueiry also brought valuable energy during the comeback.
In a blazing final quarter, Sagesse erased a 14-point deficit in a fever-pitch atmosphere. Possession after possession, they chipped away until finally drawing level, forcing a dramatic overtime. The stage was set for the perfect heist.
Experience Prevailed
But then came the letdown. Where Riyadi stayed cool, Sagesse collapsed.
Missed free throws, turnovers, rushed shots – Sagesse lost their way. Khatib, one of coach Gavriel’s key men, faltered in overtime. Riyadi, meanwhile, kept their composure despite Arakji’s absence. Turnovers, already a problem in regulation, piled up at the worst time. Nerves took over just when Sagesse had a chance to seal the win. Even Sekou’s impact faded in the face of Riyadi’s disciplined defense.
The Yellows’ Experience
Champions do what champions do – punish every mistake. Hunt made the right choices, Zeinoun hustled for key steals and Maker locked down the paint. “We played a great game, for ourselves and our fans,” coach Ahmad Farran said afterward. “Now we focus on Manara to go up 3-0. Hopefully, Game 4 in Ghazir will be the last.”
With this 77-71 win, Riyadi now leads the finals 2-0. Game 3 on Tuesday in Manara could be the decisive blow.
What Sagesse Is Missing
Sagesse still lacks the essential: consistency.
You don’t win a final relying on crowd energy and bursts of pride. Emotions can’t make up for mental gaps or the missed free throws and countless wasted possessions. Sagesse broke down at the worst possible time.
To come back in this series, the Greens will need to play with clarity, discipline and composure – not just in moments, but for the entire game. Because Riyadi doesn’t play with emotion. They play to win.
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