15-07-2025
Relentless Bahrain Put Australia to the Sword
TDT | Manama
Vovoras' men post tournament-best 106 points to stay perfect in William Jones Cup
Bahrain's scorching form at the 44th William Jones Cup continued on Tuesday morning with a 106-91 win over Australia United, their fourth consecutive win in the tournament.
Led by head coach Georgios Vovoras, the Kingdom's national team posted their highest scoring total so far, and absorbed the highest total any opponent has put up past them. This was both teams' toughest defensive test yet.
The victory followed earlier wins against Japan U25 (85-69), Chinese Taipei White (71-63), and Malaysia (81-69). Now 4-0, Bahrain move into tomorrow's match against the UAE brimming with confidence.
Fast Start
Bahrain wasted no time asserting themselves, exploding for 32 first-quarter points while holding Australia to just 17. The opening frame reflected Bahrain's interior dominance and ball movement — a theme that would run all night.
Despite a 25-24 second quarter in Australia's favor, Bahrain maintained control to take a 56-42 halftime lead.
The third quarter was equally impressive, with Bahrain outscoring Australia 27-21 thanks to smart cuts, second-chance points, and unselfish play. Though Australia fought back in the fourth, Bahrain stayed in control to close out a 15-point win.
Balanced Scoring
JaKarr Sampson led all scorers with 21 points on 56.3% shooting, adding six rebounds and three assists in 20 minutes. He was one of five Bahrain players in double figures.
Mohamed Hamoda was electric off the bench, scoring 18 points on 8-of-12 shooting, while Mustafa Rashed controlled the tempo with 16 points and a game-high 10 assists.
Devon Chism had a near double-double with 11 points and 10 boards in just under 19 minutes. Ali Alhaddad also impressed, scoring 11 points and hitting two key threes.
In total, 10 different players scored for Bahrain.
Chemistry on Display
Bahrain shot 53% from the field, dished out 33 assists, and dominated the paint, scoring 44 two-point field goals — including 33-of-49 inside the arc (67.3%). Their ability to move the ball and exploit mismatches kept Australia scrambling defensively.
Defensively, Bahrain forced 11 turnovers and converted 13 offensive rebounds into second-chance points. They also edged the rebounding battle, 43-40.
What's Next?
Bahrain face the UAE tomorrow at 8AM (Bahrain time), continuing their grueling eight-game run in Taipei. Later this week, they'll take on Qatar B, Chinese Taipei's senior squad, and defending champions Strong Group Athletics.
With four wins in four games and their offense peaking, Bahrain's campaign is building serious momentum.
