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Two games, two thrilling scenarios and one clear takeaway: victory must be hard-fought in this edition of the Lebanese First Division basketball league. While Homenetmen had to battle into overtime to edge out National Sports Academy-NSA (83-81), La Sagesse got the job done by defeating Hoops (85-79), despite a stellar individual performance from Zach Lofton.
A Fight Until the End
Suspense, chills and a nail-biting finish! In the heart of the Fouad Chehab Complex in Jounieh, NSA came close to a major upset but ultimately fell after overtime against a Homenetmen team desperate to bounce back. Final score: 83-81 (regulation time: 71-71).
Under the leadership of Serbian coach Toni Vujanic, NSA relied entirely on its foreign trio. Shane Rector put on a show with an impressive performance (32 points, 9 rebounds, 8 assists), well supported by Kosh Bar (22 points, 15 rebounds) and Joshua Caldwell (18 points, 11 rebounds). But on the other side, Homenetmen refused to back down and delivered a strong collective performance. The unstoppable Buot Aluk scored 25 points and grabbed 12 rebounds, while Jordan Stevens shined with a double-double (22 points, 11 assists). Special mention goes to Frenchman Axel Toupane, who contributed in all areas (14 points, 8 rebounds, 3 steals, 3 blocks).
It was an incredibly intense game where every possession mattered. NSA dominated the boards (55 rebounds to 43) but struggled from beyond the arc (6/35 three-pointers). Homenetmen, more efficient (12/16 free throws), made the difference in the key moments.
Zach Lofton Takes Charge
At Rockland Arena, Hoops seemed on the verge of upsetting La Sagesse but ultimately fell 85-79. A fast-paced duel, dominated by foreign players and highlighted by a one-man show from Zach Lofton.
While Hoops relied on a sensational Dikembe Dixon (38 points, 9 rebounds), they couldn’t find the answers to stop La Sagesse’s attacks. Lofton put on a commanding display with 35 points, 10 rebounds, and 7 assists, well supported by Gerard Hadidian (18 points, 7 rebounds). The impact of Tunisian center Ridha Ben Slimane (13 points, 9 rebounds, 3 assists) also proved crucial.
La Sagesse made the difference through rebounding dominance (42 to 31) and a more collective style of play (20 assists compared to Hoops' 12). Despite some ups and downs, the Green Team secured a crucial win, though adjustments will be needed for the rest of the season.
International Break Before the Restart
The league now takes a two-week break as the national team faces the United Arab Emirates in the FIBA Asia Cup qualifiers. The competition resumes on February 25, with teams gearing up for the next phase of the season.
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