Luanda – Angola’s Petro de Luanda won on Saturday the African Basketball League (BAL) by defeating Al Ahly of Benghazi, from Libya, by 107-94, in the final of the competition in played Kigali, Rwanda.
This is the 4th edition of the continental club event.
It was the second final for the Angolan champion, who competed in this competition in the league version, previously known as the championship.
Despite being a newcomer, the Libyan team was not an easy opponent, as demonstrated by the three draws in the first period at 11-11, 14-14 and 17-17, but with Petro winning in the end, 26-24.
However, due to the effective outside play, Al Ahly from Benghazi gained an advantage that forced Petro's coach to request a second time out.
The 'tricolores' were 40-52 behind at half-time.
Upon resumption, the Angolans staged a recovery and reduced the deficit to six points (53-59), but were still very lacking.
Petro re-entered the game with two triples from Gerson Gonçalves, when there were two more draws 73-73 and 75-75, the final result of the third period.
North American Nicola Faust was once again decisive in crucial moments, helping Petro to an 89-84 lead.
At the end, both teams opted for defensive protection, but it was Petro who, by opting for zone defense, achieved peace of mind on the scoreboard (94 -86), finishing the challenge at 100 (107-94). WR/MC/DOJ
