Alkass English
DOHA: Al Rayyan and Qatar SC recorded impressive victories over Al Ahli and Al Gharafa, respectively, in the Qatar Men's Basketball League 2026-27 season on Saturday.
Al Rayyan began the day with a commanding 106-85 victory over Al Ahli in the opening match at Al Gharafa Sports Club Hall.
Al Rayyan established an early advantage by taking the first quarter 25-17 before both teams scored 27 points in the second period. The winners then strengthened their lead with an impressive 32-15 performance in the third quarter, while Al Ahli claimed the final period 26-22.
Abdulla Yassin Mousa led Al Rayyan's scoring with 23 points, while Hamza Mohammed Al Attar was Al Ahli's leading scorer with 22 points.
The result lifted Al Rayyan to five points from three matches, putting them level with Al Ahli, who have played four games.
In the second encounter, Qatar SC overcame Al Gharafa 97-84 in an overtime thriller.
Qatar SC made a strong start, taking the opening quarter 24-13, but Al Gharafa gradually fought their way back into the contest. The second and third quarters ended 19-20 and 18-21, respectively, before Al Gharafa won the fourth period 27-20 to force overtime.
However, Qatar SC took control in the extra period, outscoring their opponents 16-3 to seal an important 13-point victory.
Dejan Janjic delivered an outstanding performance for Qatar SC, finishing as the game's top scorer with 30 points. He also contributed 12 rebounds and seven assists.
J'Von McCormick was Al Gharafa's standout performer, recording 24 points, 11 rebounds and 10 assists.
The victory took Qatar SC to four points from three matches, while Al Gharafa remained on six points after four games.
The league action continues on Sunday with the postponed third-round fixture between Al Sadd and Al Arabi at the Basketball Federation Hall.
Qatar SC will return to action on Monday, when they face Al Ahli in a postponed second-round encounter.