DOHA: Al Arabi Club kicked off its campaign in the best-of-three finals of the 45th edition of the Qatar Men’s Basketball League (2025–2026 season) with a 79–71 victory over Al Rayyan, in the first matchup held on Monday evening at Al Gharafa Hall.
With this win, Al Arabi took a crucial first step toward clinching the championship, gaining both psychological and technical momentum early in the series.
Al Arabi imposed its dominance from the start, winning the first quarter 23–11 thanks to tight defensive organization and rapid offensive transitions, which gave them a comfortable edge in rhythm and score.
Al Rayyan responded in the second quarter, narrowing the gap with a 24–22 advantage, capitalizing on improved offensive efficiency and some defensive lapses from Al Arabi. The first half ended with renewed suspense.
The third quarter was closely contested, with both sides trading baskets in a tactical battle, before Al Arabi edged it 14–11. The fourth quarter saw Al Rayyan prevail 25–20, but it wasn’t enough to overturn the overall result.
