Al Ahly Tripoli edge out Tochigi Brex to claim first win in Singapore

Ismael Romero (205-C-1991) posted 21 points and 15 rebounds as Al Ahly Tripoli earned their first win at the FIBA Intercontinental Cup, defeating Japan’s Tochigi Brex 87–78 on Saturday. The Libyan club improved to 1–1 in Group A and will play for third place.
Romero had plenty of support as Makur Maker (212-C/F-2000, college: Howard) and Marcos Knight (191-G-1989, college: MTSU, agency: Slash Sports) scored 20 points apiece. Al Ahly set the tone early with a 21–14 advantage after the opening quarter, only for Tochigi to answer back with a 22–14 second period that gave the Brex a 36–35 halftime lead.
The momentum swung again after the break. Al Ahly poured in 27 points in the third quarter to move ahead 62–59, then tightened up defensively in the fourth to hold Tochigi at bay. Romero’s presence on the glass and Maker’s inside scoring proved decisive as the Libyans closed out the game.
DJ Newbill (193-G-1992, college: Penn State) paced Tochigi with 28 points, while Makoto Hiejima (191-G/F-1990) added 15, but the Japanese side dropped to 0–2 in group play.