Basketball Africa League

Results

Oilers 82 Al Ahly 81

Bangui 96 Al Ahly Benghazi 93

The City Oilers said it wasn’t over. No one believed them.

On Wednesday, the Ugandan champions backed up their conviction with a historic 82-81 win over Basketball Africa League (BAL) defending champions Al Ahly.

Khaman Maluach was incredible for the Oilers, grabbing a game-high 27 points and 16 rebounds, while Randy Culpepper scored 20 points, including the last three points that completed a stunning victory.

Dane Miller scored 14 for the Oilers, who outgunned Al Ahly from three-point range seven to six, and forced them into 18 turnovers, compared to 13.

Patrick Gardner led the Oilers with 19 points, finishing with a team-best efficiency of 22. Maluach’s efficiency was a whopping 35, and his display is the latest reminder why he is a sure NBA prospect. Maluach led the Oilers but the collective effort of Karim Nesba’s side was the best of the campaign so far.

The Oilers snatched nine steals compared to Al Ahly’s seven and shot 17/21 free throws. The home side were just 7/13 from the charity strip.

The win helped the Oilers stave off elimination, and with two games still to play, the Oilers have put themselves in contention to sneak into the playoffs. Victories over Bangui SC and Al Ahly Benghazi will put the Oilers in a strong position to finish in the qualification slots.

The action returns Friday, with the Oilers taking on Bangui and the two Al Ahly sides clashing.