Etoile Sportive du Sahel 84 - 67 Union Sportive Ansar

- September 20, 2025

POSTED BY: Eurobasket Center

Jarvis Nicks

Etoile Sportive du Sahel (ESS) put on a dominant display to defeat Union Sportive Ansar (USA) 84-67 in a friendly clash on Friday morning in Hammam Sousse. ESS controlled the tempo from start to finish, leading for nearly the entire 40 minutes and showcasing superior depth and defensive pressure.

First Half Control

ESS jumped to a quick lead, taking the opening quarter 25-15 thanks to efficient ball movement and inside scoring. They extended the margin to 41-27 by halftime, fueled by points off turnovers (31 total) and strong rebounding on both ends.

Battle in the Paint

Both teams scored 40 points in the paint, but ESS’s ability to generate 16 second-chance points and dominate on the offensive boards (15 offensive rebounds) made the difference. Union Sportive Ansar struggled to match their physicality and depth, producing only 4 second-chance points.

Key Performers - ESS

Adem Racil) anchored the win with a double-double: 12 points, 11 rebounds, and 4 assists, finishing with a game-high EFF 17.

Hosni Ilahi added 14 points and 5 assists, showing poise and playmaking ability.

Neji Jaziri chipped in 16 points, while Youssef Sahbeni contributed 9 rebounds and 4 points, controlling the glass.

The ESS bench was decisive, outscoring USA’s reserves 45-12.

Key Performers - USA

Jarvis Nicks (190-SG -1993) led the visitors with 15 points and 5 rebounds, shooting 50% from the field.

Islem Ajmi and Firas Boumaiza both added 11 points, while Oussema Ben Hmida provided energy with 10 points and 6 rebounds off the bench.

Despite efficient shooting inside (55% on 2-pointers), turnovers (21 total) and limited fast-break production hampered their offense.

Summary

ESS maintained composure and depth throughout, never trailing after the opening minutes. Their balance between starters and reserves, along with strong defensive rotations, set the tone for a convincing win. Ansar fought back in the third quarter but couldn’t close the gap as ESS finished strong with a 29-22 final frame.