Wednesday, April 24
*Bangui (Central Africa Rep) 96-93 Al Ahly Benghazi (Libya)
*City Oilers (Uganda) 82-81 Al Ahly (Egypt)
Standings
- Al Ahly 3-1
- Al Ahly Benghazi 2-2
- Bangui SC 2-2
- City Oilers 1-3
City Oilers pulled off a stunning upset against defending champions Al Ahly, securing an 82-81 victory on their home turf in the 2024 Basketball Africa League’s Nile Conference group.
Despite leading 38-35 at halftime, the Oilers were on course for a fourth straight loss as they faced an eight-point deficit heading into the final quarter.
But the Ugandan representatives mounted a remarkable comeback with a 10-0 run, showcasing their resilience and silencing the home crowd.
Randy Lechard Culpepper sealed the win for the Oilers with a clutch lay-up, converting a bonus free-throw after being fouled.
With 12 seconds on the clock, from a timeout, Al Ahly had a chance to win it but Ehab Amin’s three-point attempt rimmed out.
Khaman Maluach led the charge with a double-double of 27 points and 16 rebounds, supported by strong performances from Randy Lembert Culpepper and Dane Miller who had 20 and 14 points respectively.
Patrick Gardner (19), Ehab Amin (15), Omar Tarek Oraby (13) and Tony Rasean Mitchell Jr (11) scored in double digits for Al Ahly.
Despite being out-rebounded and receiving minimal bench contribution (8 points), the Oilers displayed grit and determination, securing their first win after three consecutive defeats.
The Oilers have given themselves a fighting stance now, but there is still an uphill task to make it to the playoffs.
To secure a spot in the BAL playoffs in Kigali, Rwanda, the Oilers must win their upcoming matches against Bangui SC and Al Ahly Benghazi on Friday and Saturday respectively.
The top two teams from this Nile Conference, and the two best third placed sides across the three conferences qualify for the Playoffs.
