17-07-2025
Headline: Bahrain Stay Perfect With Win Over UAE
TDT | Manama
After dropping 106 points on Australia the day before, Bahrain had to find a different gear against UAE, and they did just that. With the game on the line, Bahrain outlasted their Gulf rivals 77–71 to stay unbeaten in the Jones Cup.
Now 5–0, the Kingdom sit firmly atop the standings with three more matches remaining.
A Fast Start
Bahrain sprinted out of the gates with a 24–9 first quarter, locking down UAE's shooters and owning the glass. Jakarr Sampson and Devon Chism controlled the paint early, while Rashed got loose for a pair of threes.
But the second half was anything but smooth.
UAE clawed their way back behind Omar Alameri's 16 points and a strong third quarter from Demarco Dickerson. The Emiratis won Q3 25–17 and cut Bahrain's lead to just one. For the first time in this tournament, Bahrain looked vulnerable. Cue the late composure.
Cometh the Hour, Cometh the Man
With the game tight, Mustafa Rashed stepped up in a big way by scoring 31 points on 11-of-20 shooting, including five triples and a perfect 4-for-4 at the line. He bailed Bahrain out of multiple tough possessions and created breathing room with a timely three in the fourth.
Jakarr Sampson didn't have the most efficient night (7-22 FG), but his 18 points and 14 rebounds were crucial. Devon Chism nearly posted a triple-double: 8 points, 18 rebounds, 4 assists, and 4 blocks.
Bahrain's size wore UAE down over four quarters. They grabbed 24 offensive rebounds and totaled 9 blocks, which is one of their best rim-protecting performances to date.
What's Next
Bahrain will get a lighter assignment tomorrow against Qatar B, followed by crucial games against Chinese Taipei A and Strong Group Athletics (PHI).
With the Kingdom sitting 5–0, the path to a perfect run is real, but there's still business to handle.
