Al Bashayer edge Masirah in one-point thriller

MUSCAT, NOV 7
Al Bashayer Club secured a dramatic 41-40 victory over Masirah Club in the 2026-27 Under-17 Basketball League at Al Amal Club’s indoor arena, with the closely fought contest decided by a single point after remaining competitive until the final seconds.
The match featured several shifts in momentum as both teams enjoyed periods of control. Al Bashayer made the stronger start, Masirah responded impressively before half-time and Al Bashayer then produced a decisive third-quarter comeback before holding off a late challenge from their opponents.
Al Bashayer began the encounter with greater attacking efficiency and made good use of their early opportunities. Their defensive organisation also limited Masirah’s scoring options, allowing them to take an 11-7 lead at the end of the opening quarter.
Masirah transformed the contest during the second period, raising their intensity at both ends of the court. Their improved attacking movement created more opportunities around the basket, while stronger defensive pressure disrupted Al Bashayer’s rhythm.
Masirah dominated the quarter 18-6, overturning the early deficit and entering the half-time break with a 25-17 advantage.
The third quarter proved to be the turning point. Al Bashayer regained their composure and produced their strongest spell of the match, attacking with greater purpose and capitalising on a decline in Masirah’s performance.
20-POINT RETURN
A 20-point return, combined with a disciplined defensive effort that restricted Masirah to only five, transformed Al Bashayer’s eight-point half-time deficit into a 37-30 lead ahead of the final period.
Masirah refused to surrender and mounted a determined comeback in the fourth quarter. They increased their attacking pressure and outscored Al Bashayer 10-4, reducing the gap as the contest moved towards a tense finish.
However, Al Bashayer protected their slender advantage in the closing moments and held on to seal a hard-earned 41-40 victory.
Riyadh al Riyami delivered the standout attacking performance for Al Bashayer, scoring 29 of his team’s 41 points. Moataz al Sinani led Masirah’s challenge with 20 points, making the pair the leading scorers of the encounter.
The match was officiated by Taha al Amri as first referee and Ghalib al Hasani as second referee, while Maryam al Zadjali, Moosa al Siyabi and Said al Ghammari performed the table-official duties.