Kuwait stays on course for FIBA Asia Cup

A Kuwaiti goes for a basket as rivals defend.

DUBAI, Aug 29: Kuwait cruised to a convincing 88-65 victory over Nepal in the third round of the first window of the Asian qualifiers for the FIBA Asia Cup in Dubai.

The Blues controlled proceedings from start to finish, with Kuwait producing a strong all-round performance to secure a comfortable win.

The victory took Kuwait’s tally to five points from three wins, leaving them level with the UAE at the top of the standings. Bahrain has four points from two victories, while Oman and Nepal have two points apiece.

Kuwait, the UAE, and Bahrain have all secured their places in the second qualifying window, which will be played in November.

Kuwait coach Vassilios Bratsiakos praised his players for their display against Nepal, but admitted that injuries continue to affect the team’s preparations and player fitness.

“We now have two days to rest and recover before facing a strong Bahrain side in the final match of the qualifiers tomorrow,” Bratsiakos said.

Meanwhile, Al-Qadsia has strengthened its roster by signing Senegalese player Pape Boubacar Sarr and American Alfonso Wells ahead of next season and for the remainder of the current campaign.

The pair will join American Wesley Alsegaier, who signed with the “Yellow” earlier.

Al-Qadsia has also appointed Turkish coach Murat Dökme as head coach for next season, replacing compatriot Ender Paşayer, who guided the team for the previous two seasons before his contract expired at the end of last season.

The team began its training programme earlier this month as they prepare for the new campaign.

By Khaled Al-Enezi

Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff