Lebanese basketball fans are eagerly anticipating the pinnacle match of the 17th day of the Lebanese championship, as Beirut SC hosts al-Riyadi Beirut at home.
The status of both teams in the league
This match holds significant moral importance for Coach Joe Ghattas team (Beirut SC), following two consecutive defeats and concerns regarding the performance of foreign players, particularly their pivot Cliff Alexander, who is enduring a challenging season.
On the other hand, al-Riyadi will be aiming for their twentieth consecutive victory across the Lebanon, Wasl and Dubai tournaments, to secure the top spot and home-court advantage in all knockout rounds of the tournament.
A change in foreign players on the horizon
Sports experts are discussing a potential surge in foreign players as the playoffs approach, with the end of the Chinese league and leagues in neighboring countries, including the Gulf, where some prominent names are expected to join the Lebanese league.
Thon Maker’s name was linked with al-Riyadi Beirut before the club denied the news through its secretary, Tamam al-Jaroudi, who confirmed that there was no reason to make changes, as the team was delivering excellent results, not to mention the distinctive harmony among the foreign players.
On the other hand, Beirut SC might have an interest in reinforcing its foreign ranks to be more competitive.
The strategic game
A victory for Beirut tomorrow will almost guarantee them third place and enable them to avoid al-Riyadi Beirut later in the semifinal round of the league’s knockout stages. If they lose, they will remain in fourth place until the final round of the league. The answer comes tomorrow at 9:00 PM.
