Syrian Al Jalaa beat Saudi Arab’s Al Ittihad in a classification game: FIBA Asia Champions Cup 2011
In a classification game for 5-8 places, the Syrian Champions Al Jalaa gradually took control over the Saudi Arab’s Al Ittihad and clinched an exciting 85-77 victory. In the 2010 version of the tournament, the Syrian team finished
at the sixth place and with the win they have retained their contentions to go a step further.
Five players from AL Jalaa landed double figures. They were led by Wissam Yakoub’s impressive double-double. The 29-year-old player landed a game-high 17 points, clutched 10 rebounds and dished out 2 assists. Marcelle Yaqqub and
Sari Papazian chipped in with a substantial contribution as well and scored 16 points apiece.
On the other hand, Vladislav Dragojlovic was the highlight in the Al Ittihad’s line-up. He kept his team in a competitive position throughout the night. Dragojlovic racked up a team-high 16 points and clutched 13 boards in less
than 35 minutes of playing time. Ali Al Maghrabi also posted a dominating performance and shared a team-high 16 points with Vladislav. However the Syrian team showcased a better performance down the stretch and sealed the victory.
The Saudi Arabian team romped to 6-1 run in the preliminary three minutes of the game, however they failed to carry the advantage for a sustained period. Al Jalaa picked the momentum swiftly and grabbed 18-16 lead by the end of
the first quarter. The Syrian team carried the action in the second quarter and amplified their lead to double figures. Al Ittihad strived to retaliate just before halftime but their efforts only helped to reduce the deficit to 5 points as the game progressed
into the second half.
Al Jalaa showed no sign of retreat after halftime as they never trailed in the last two quarters. Wissam, Marcelle and Sari continued to provide fireworks for their team down the stretch leaving few options for the opposition to
gain any sort of momentum. Papazian buried the final free throw of the game in the last 4 seconds as Al Jalaa sealed the win.
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