APR BBC outlasted REG BBC 64-61 in overtime, snapping REG’s six-game winning streak and tightening their hold on the Rwanda Basketball League standings.
Shorthanded APR BBC edged REG on Friday night in a dull game at BK Arena, reinforcing their league supremacy.
The army team and defending champions entered the game missing several key players, including big man Aliou Diarra, who was injured in Wednesday’s game against Espoir.
With Diarra sidelined, along with Adonis Filer, Israel Otobo, and Chris Ruta, REG hoped to capitalize on APR’s weakened lineup, not only to end APR’s strong form but also to break their long losing streak against them, which included a 3-0 playoff sweep last season.
APR’s Osborn Shema returned to the court for the first time since his national team duties, but his limited playing time added complexity to the team’s chemistry, leaving them relying heavily on their backcourt.
Both teams, standing at 6-0 before the game, played below their best. The game ended 59-all in regular time, with APR winning 64-61 in overtime.
The game, with poor shooting and decision-making, raises the question: who can stop APR this season if REG can’t, even without key players?
The win solidifies that the defending champions APR BBC will finish the first leg in the top position.
