The Malian star center joined APR last week on a one-year deal
Sunday
APR 94-75 Espoir
Patriots 100-57 Inspired Generation
People anticipated an upset from Espoir in Sunday night’s clash against APR, considering that they are pushing for a top four finish at the end of Rwanda Basketball League regular season. But it didn’t stop the defending champions from taking the bragging rights after a commanding 94-75 win at Lycée de Kigali gymnasium courtesy of new boy Aliou Diarra’s exploits.
The Malian star center, who joined the army side early last week on a one-year-deal, exhibited brilliance on his debut appearance with a game high 18 points to help his side make a big stride in the league.
Mazen Trakh’s side took an early lead in the game, taking the first two quarters 23-18 and 19-13, heading into half-time with 42-31.
APR kept the tempo high and claimed the third quarter 28-17 to get into the driving seat heading into the final quarter of the game with a 22-point lead.
While Espoir reduced the deficit by taking the final quarter 27-24 but it was no threat to the army side who went all the way put yet another win in the bag.
Ntore Habimana contributed 17 points while Jean Jacques Wilson Nshobozwabyosenumukiza and Osborn Shema 13 and 12 points.