US Monastir was defeated in the final by Zamalek last year. They will be seeking revenge in the semi-finals. The Tunisian formation qualified thanks in particular to three players Michael Andre Dixon (23 pts, 4 rebounds, 1 assist), Radhouane Slimane (16 pts, 6 rebounds, 5 assists) and Souleyman Diabaté (13 pts, 2 rebounds, 5 assists ). The Zamalek was served by MoustafakejoElmekani (14 point, 12 rebound).
Our special correspondent in Kigali
US MonastirThe Cape Town Tigers (106–67) were seen walking in front of them. The Tunisians relied on the trio Michael Andre Dixon (23 pts, 4 rebounds, 1 assist), Radhouane Slimane (16 pts, 6 rebounds, 5 assists) and Souleyman Diabaté (13 pts, 2 rebounds, 5 assists). Dixon, a naturalized Georgian of American descent, is the leader. He averages 13.2 pts per games for 2.4 boards and 4.4 assists. The American is also able to play at position 2, (back). He won the Cup and Tunisian championship with Monastir.
Slimane’s beautiful remains
Radhouane Slimane is 41 and does more than resist. The strong winger plays 31 games per game, scoring 14.8 points and five assists. Slimane is a member of 3 Afrobasket (2011-2017 and 2021). He has won everything locally with US Monastir, including the 2022 league and double cup. He will be a major asset to the team’s success this season, as Vice-champion for the BAL in 2021.
The other important link in this team is Souleyman Diabaté. The Ivorian was awarded the BAL in 2021 along with Zamalek. He is also a significant player in the game, with an average of 29 minutes (8.7 points, 3 rebounds and 4.7 assists) over his 34-years. Diabaté often comes off the bench to put US Monastir back into orbit. The “old” drivers stood up against the trio Cape Town Tigers consisting of Cleananthony Late (15 pts), Billy Preston (17, and Pieter Prinsloo (14), respectively.
Elmekani sees double…
In the absence Ike diogu from Nigeria and with Anas Mahmoud less flamboyant (7 pts, 10 rebound), it is Moustafakejo Elmekani that takes matters in hand Zamalek.The Egyptian international pivot stood out with a double double (14 pts and 12 rebounds) within 22 minutes of play. He played his best match since the beginning of the tournament. He was averaging 5.6 points per game and 5.4 rbds. The 27-year-old was part the 2021 expedition, which saw Zamalek being coronated in front Monastir. Moustafa Elmekani is the double champion of Egypt (2019 & 2021). Edgar Sosa (13 points) and DJ Stawberry (12 points) also contributed to the success Zamalek.
Oumar Barry, author of a double-double (12 rebounds, 13 pts), could not stop the defeat of SLAC. The Guinean pivot (2m11), was not enough. SLAC must be disappointed by the absence Marcus Crawford2Th tournament leading scorer. A mistake in administration led to the club being stripped of its best player.
Victor BAGAYOKO
Source: sportnewsafrica
