Al-Riyadi Roll Past Antranik, 108-86
In a dominant D1M performance at Demerjian Center, Al-Riyadi dismantled Antranik 108-86 on Wednesday, December 3. Amir Saoud led the charge for Al-Riyadi with a game-high 30 points. It was an up-tempo, high-scoring affair with both teams combining for 194 points.
The two sides were locked in a tight battle through the first half, heading into the break tied at 44 apiece. The fourth quarter was the decisive stretch, with Al-Riyadi outscoring their opponents 35-23 to swing the momentum in their favor.
The game featured several highlight plays. The game featured 6 dunks in total, with M. Majak (Antranik) throwing down a powerful slam in the first quarter. A. Saoud (Al-Riyadi) connected from beyond the arc in the third quarter. M. Majak was a force on the defensive end with 11 blocks.
Amir Saoud was the undeniable star of the game, finishing with 30 points, 3 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals in 34 minutes of action. He shot 10-of-11 (91%) from the field, 4-of-5 (80%) from three-point range, 6-of-7 (86%) from the free-throw line. The team was a remarkable +17 with him on the floor. Perrin Buford provided valuable support with 17 points, 12 rebounds, 8 assists, 2 blocks. Ali Mansour also chipped in with 13 points off the bench.
Al-Riyadi's bench was a major factor, contributing 23 points off the pine. Ali Mansour was the standout reserve, providing 13 points, 4 rebounds, 7 assists in a spark-plug role. Al-Riyadi also generated 45 fast-break points, capitalizing on every opportunity.
Al-Riyadi held a significant edge in field goal shooting at 57% compared to Antranik's 47%. Al-Riyadi also had the advantage at the charity stripe, converting 19 free throws to Antranik's 11.
Al-Riyadi dominated the boards 38-28, including 9 offensive rebounds that led to extra possessions. Al-Riyadi owned the paint with 48 points inside to Antranik's 34. Al-Riyadi's ball movement was superior with 28 assists to Antranik's 23.
The biggest momentum shift came when Al-Riyadi put together a 11-0 run in the fourth quarter, leaving their opponents scrambling to respond. Antranik answered with a 10-0 run of their own, keeping the contest competitive.
In a losing effort, Emmanuel Little fought hard for Antranik, finishing with 31 points, 3 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals. Majur Majak added 17 points, 8 rebounds, 4 blocks, but their combined efforts were not enough to turn the tide.