Africa-Press – Rwanda. The highly anticipated clash between the defending champions, APR, and bitter rivals Patriots BBC is set to take place on Wednesday, March 20.
As the stage gets set for this epic showdown, basketball fans can anticipate an enthralling display of skill, strategy, and passion as both teams tussle it out not only for a better position on the table but also for pride.
Last season, the Patriots triumphed over APR in two closely fought encounters. The first leg ended with a score of 67-60 in March 2023, while the second leg saw Patriots claim victory with a scoreline of 87-74 in August of the same year.
As the two teams get ready to renew their rivalry, Times Sport delves into the key battles that will take place on the court.
1. William Perry Vs Adonis Filer
William Perry Vs Adonis Filer
In one of the key battles of the game, APR’s seasoned point guard Adonis Filer will be up against fellow American guard William Perry who plays for the Patriots.
Filer has grown in his game and is arguably the most feared guard in the league currently. Besides his great ball handling, he possesses a good ability to find scoring opportunities which he always finishes off with his great shooting. His most recent game was against Kigali Titans where he dropped an impressive 37 points, leading his team to a convincing 92-71 victory.
On the other hand, William Perry who is a new player for the Patriots has had a very good introduction to the league. His fast and fearless playing style coupled with flare has already brought good results to his team. His most recent game was a big one against Rwanda Energy Group (REG). He rose to the occasion, contributing 21 points, 9 rebounds, and 9 assists to secure a vital win for his team.
His duel with Filer promises to be closely contested.
2. William Robeyns Vs Steven Hagumintwari
William Robeyns Vs Steven Hagumintwari
Rwandan forward William Robeyns is expected to be rubbing shoulders with countryman Steve Hagumintwari as they roam all over on the court to find scoring opportunities from long shots and close ones.
Robeyns has good understanding of the game and possesses some guard-like skills for masterminding attacks. On the opposing side, Steven Hagumintwari, one of the brightest talents in the local league, will be ready to put up a proper fight.
Hagumintwari’s calm style of play, good passing and chemistry with his fellow Patriots’ players will be an asset for him in the duel.
Fingers crossed for who will come out on top and give his team a better chance of winning.
3. Nikola Scekic Vs Dario Nathan Hunt
Nikola Scekic Vs Dario Nathan Hunt
The matchup between Serbian center Nikola Scekic of Patriots and American player Dario Hunt of APR will be a good one to watch.
Scekic, standing at 7-foot-3 presents a serious threat in the paint both defensively and offensively. Hunt who is slightly shorter will be banking on his experience and skills to get the better of the Serbian. Hunt has played in lower clubs in the USA, Europe and the Australian topflight.
4. Mazen Trakh Vs Henry Mwinuka
Mazen Trakh Vs Henry Mwinuka
In the coaching department, Mazen Trakh of APR and Henry Mwinuka of Patriots will have their own mini-battle of tactics.
Mwinuka, a Tanzanian coach who has been in the Rwandan league for now close to five years, boasts great experience in regards to the game in the country. He has previously guided Patriots and REG to the league trophy.
On the opposing side will be Trakh, a former NBA assistant coach who arguably boasts the biggest profile in Rwandan basketball currently.
Will Mwinuka’s local experience get the Patriots to the top or will Trakh reign supreme with his NBA experience? Fingers crossed.
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