Doha – January 7, 2026:
Al Rayyan Club reclaimed the top spot in the General Basketball League for the 2025-2026 sports season after securing a strong and deserved victory over visiting Al Khor with a score of 101-80. The match took place on Wednesday evening, January 7, 2026, at Al Rayyan Hall, where the experience and efficiency of the home team dominated the proceedings.
Al Rayyan started the game with high enthusiasm and fluidity, imposing control over the first quarter, which ended 30-12, benefiting from tight defensive organization and offensive pressure that disrupted Al Khor’s defenses. However, in the second quarter, Al Khor managed to adjust their level and delivered an improved performance, winning the quarter by a single point 24-23, adding extra excitement to the game as the second half began.
Al Rayyan returned in the third quarter to affirm their superiority and regain control, scoring 27 points against Al Khor’s 18, putting them firmly on the path to victory.
In the fourth quarter, despite Al Khor’s edge 26-21, the large lead built by Al Rayyan in the previous quarters was sufficient to seal the win.
On the individual level, Al Khor’s star Jesse Jones was the game’s top scorer with 42 points, excelling in penetrating Al Rayyan’s defenses and creating numerous opportunities, though his efforts were not enough to turn the tide. For Al Rayyan, Aladji Bobo Magassa shone with 23 points, contributing significantly to bolstering his team’s lead. He also received the Best Qatari Player award for the match, worth $100, sponsored by Mosafer Company.
With this important victory, Al Rayyan’s points tally rose to 23 from 12 matches, topping the league by a single point over second-placed defending champions Al Arabi, while Al Khor remained in ninth and last place with 13 points.
In another thrilling match from the same round, Al Sadd secured a valuable win over hosts Al Wakrah 97-94 in a fiercely contested encounter that showcased high technical levels.
Al Sadd started strongly, dominating the first quarter to lead 29-24, before maintaining their advantage by two points 18-16 in the second quarter, ending the first half ahead by five points.
Excitement returned in the third quarter, which saw great balance between the two teams, with Al Wakrah tying the quarter 25-25, intensifying the battle for points amid strong fan support.
In the final quarter, the fierce competition continued, with Al Wakrah outperforming 29-25, but Al Sadd’s outstanding team performance proved decisive in the end, allowing them to clinch the victory.
Al Sadd’s star Stephen Bernard Leonard Green delivered an exceptional individual performance, scoring the game’s highest 36 points and serving as the key to Al Sadd’s win. Meanwhile, Wesley Mark Alsigir was Al Wakrah’s top scorer with 24 points.
The match also featured recognition for local players, as Al Sadd’s Mustafa Fouda was crowned the Best Qatari Player, receiving an award worth $100 sponsored by Mosafer Company.
Al Sadd raised their tally to 20 points from 12 matches, tying with Al Ahli for third place, while Al Wakrah occupied fifth place with 18 points in a heated race for the top positions.
League matches continue on Thursday, January 8, 2026, with Al Gharafa facing Qatar Club at 6:00 PM, followed by a strong clash between defending champions Al Arabi and Al Ahli at 8:00 PM. These encounters are expected to feature intense competition and high-level play as teams strive to strengthen their positions in the standings.