ES Rades grinded out a 63-54 home victory over US Ansar in the Tunisia Basketball League on October 8, 2026, in a game defined by defense, rebounding, and a decisive third-quarter run.

Match overview

This was never going to be a shootout. ES Rades and US Ansar both entered the game with reputations for physical, half-court basketball, and the first half lived up to that billing. The teams combined for just 49 points before halftime, with ES Rades holding a slim 26-23 lead. The third quarter changed everything: the hosts opened with a 12-2 run, fueled by offensive rebounds and transition baskets, and US Ansar never recovered. The final score of 63-54 reflects a tough, low-possession game where every basket was contested.

Key moments

• First quarter: Both teams struggled to find rhythm, with ES Rades leading 12-10 after 10 minutes.
• Second quarter: US Ansar briefly took the lead on a three-pointer, but ES Rades answered with six straight points before halftime.
• Third quarter: The decisive stretch. ES Rades forced five turnovers and converted them into 10 points, building a 44-30 lead.
• Fourth quarter: US Ansar cut the deficit to eight points with three minutes left, but ES Rades made seven of eight free throws to close it out.

Tactical story

ES Rades won this game on the defensive end. They packed the paint, forced US Ansar into contested mid-range jumpers, and controlled the defensive glass. Offensively, they attacked the rim relentlessly, drawing fouls and generating second-chance opportunities. US Ansar’s offense was stagnant for long stretches, relying too heavily on isolation plays. When they did move the ball, they found open looks, but those moments were too infrequent. The rebounding battle was a key indicator: ES Rades grabbed 14 offensive rebounds, leading to 16 second-chance points.

Standout players

ES Rades were led by their center, Mohamed Ali Ben Romdhane, who posted a double-double with 16 points and 13 rebounds. Guard Youssef Mejri added 14 points and four steals, while Ahmed Slimane contributed 11 points off the bench. For US Ansar, Karim Bouazizi scored 15 points and grabbed seven rebounds, and Mehdi Trabelsi chipped in 12 points. However, the visitors’ backcourt struggled with turnovers, committing 18 as a team.

Season impact and standings

The win moves ES Rades up the Tunisia Basketball League standings and extends their strong home record. In a league where road wins are difficult to come by, protecting home court is essential, and this victory does exactly that. US Ansar remain a competitive side but will need to improve their offensive execution and ball security to climb the table. With the season still young, both teams have time to adjust, but ES Rades will take confidence from a defensive performance that held a quality opponent to just 54 points.