
Kuwait Club and Kazma claim thrilling victories in semifinals
Despite a strong showing from Al-Qurain, who pushed the defending champion and Merger League leaders to the limit, Kuwait Club's experience ultimately proved decisive. The "Sons of Kaifan" held their nerve to take a crucial step toward the finals.
In another nail-biting semifinal, Kazma emerged victorious over Al-Qadsia with a narrow 103-101 win. The tightly contested encounter saw momentum swing between both sides, with the 'Orange' squad only clinching the win in the final moments.
The semifinal series continues tomorrow, Saturday, with Kuwait Club facing Al-Qurain and Kazma going up against Al-Qadsia once again. A second win for both Kuwait and Kazma would secure their spots in the league finals. However, victories for Al-Qurain and Al-Qadsia would force a third and decisive matchup.
The Basketball League champion will be determined through a best-of-five playoff format.

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