We're not here for one win only, says Muharraq after breaking through

MANAMA (Bahrain) - Bader Malabes believes that Muharraq are now becoming used to the FIBA West Asia Super League's (WASL) style of play after breaking through, Tuesday.

“We will not stay here just to get one win.”

- Ahmed Jan, Head Coach, Muharraq

The Bahraini ball club bounced back from the tough loss they absorbed at the hands of reigning Gulf League champions Kuwait Club in the Season 2 opener two weeks ago by taking down Devin Ebanks and Al-Ahli-Jeddah in a tight encounter, 94-80, at home.

"So far, we're getting used to this tournament," offered the veteran playmaker during the postgame press conference at the BBA Arena.

Malabes himself was a major reason behind their first win of the season, finishing with a game-high 22 points - spiked by four treys - on top of 5 rebounds and 6 assists.

It was definitely an improvement from his first outing, where he made 14 points on 13 attempts and was a -12 in the 108-92 loss. Needless to say, he wanted to step it up a notch this time, especially after suffering that rout right in front of their home fans.

"As a player, you have to do well in the next game, better than the previous one," said Malabes, who sparked the fourth-quarter pullaway alongside Tyler Wilkerson. "We had to win this game at home. Everyone contributed and performed well to get this win."

Head coach Ahmed Jan was as proud with the victory, believing as well that his charges are now getting the hang of playing in FIBA's newest pan-regional competition.

"Well, for sure," he said. "When you play locally here it's a different atmosphere. When you play WASL, there are many, many adjustments, studying, and calculation. We are going to continue this and what the players did tonight was great, really proud of them."

The veteran bench tactician is optimistic, too, that Muharraq can keep this form moving forward into the season as they aim to rack up as many wins as they can.

"I'm feeling really happy. This is a big one not only for us, but this is also the first one for Muharraq Club. We will not stay here just to get one win," Jan said.

FIBA