​Defenders-AS Sale Match breaks FIBA record with a Tie (69-69)

FIRST-LEG: Right in the heart of the federal republic of Nigeria, in the city of Abuja, the first ever FIBA Africa Basketball League, Elite 8 round, team Defenders and the defending champions AS Sale gets a tie, 69-69.

Fans were kept on their feet from all over at the intense game.

Both teams struggled from start to finish, with the aim of securing the win.
The more confident team and defending champions, AS Sale were given a run for their money, in a surprise by the rookie team, Defenders.

In a conversation with #14 Alhassan Enbago, he expressed gratitude over his rookie team and teammates for the good fight.
"This is our first outing, in an international tournament. We went toe to toe with the defending champions, and tied the game despite having the last opportunity to seal the deal"

"Everyone thought it would be a walkover, but thanks to God and everyone, we made our mark. And I believe this is the beginning for a greater future for the team." he concluded.

The Abuja stadium was filled on both sides of the gym, to witness this historic moment; Numbers of which hadn't been seen for a very long time.

The defending champions defeated Royal Hoopers with 29 points, defeated Gombe Bulls and lastly Kano Pillars, back to back.

Defenders was the most underrated team, but the underdogs have yet again proven themselves worthy of recognition.

For stats, three players entered double-digits:
#11 Ocheibi Okpe: 19 points, seven rebounds, four assists and two steals
#7 Ibe Abuchi Agu: 16 points, six rebounds, three assists, one steal and one block
#9 Adottah Albert: 12 points, two rebounds, one assist and one steal.

The second-leg of the match would take place at Morocco, April 12th, 2019.

Would the Defenders shake the world by defeating the defending champions?