UAE VP Cup: Omar Al Amri Ices a Buzzer Beater Three for Sharjah's Win
The third round of the UAE Vice President's Cup just finished and wrapped up with an exciting finish. The tournament is a single elimination tournament with a three round group stage period, Sharjah took on Al Nasr at Al Wasl's stadium in the third round of the group stage games. From tip off the intensity and competition was fierce. Both teams exchanged leads throughout the game. In the 10 seconds of the game, Sharjah was down by four points with possession. Omar Al Amri took the ball and put up a three, draining it, all while being fouled. The shot goes in and Omar gets the chance to complete a four-point play to win the game. Al Amri hits his free throw and ultimately wins the game. Al Nasr had the chance to come back and take the lead with 5.6 seconds left in the game, however, Sharjah's defense was able to stifle any attempt. Sharjah's new addition of Devon Henry Scott and Dequan Marquez Jones adds a number of pivotal aspects to Sharjah's success. Size, team-oriented play, and leadership provide Sharjah an opportunity to go far in the league this upcoming season.
Omar Al Amri has been on a tear in the last few weeks. He played in the William Jones Cup for the UAE National Team. In one of his performances, he had 20 PTS and 20 REB against Japan. He had a number of games where his impact from behind the three-point line was a significant factor for the UAE's offense. His defensive versatility stagnated his opponent's offense and provided the UAE with crucial stops.
Al Nasr did play really well in the game but lost the momentum in the last few minutes of the game. Al Nasr has an exciting team coming into the new UAE Basketball Season. Unfortunately for them, their 2023 Vice President's Cup journey has finished. Marvell Harris had an incredible stat line of 41 PTS 8 REB 5 AST (per PSB Sports). Marvell Harris is an experienced American ball player who has played in Europe, Japan, Australia, and the NBA Summer League. He has now brought his talents to Dubai's Al Nasr for the upcoming season.
What does Sharjah's win look like moving forward in the Vice President's Cup tournament? Sharjah should move on to the semi-finals with the reigning champions, Shabab Al Ahli. If my understanding is correct, Al Nasr, Al Wasl, Al Dhafra, and Al Bataeh will play in the quarter-finals and the winner of the two games will take on Shabab Al Ahli and Sharjah in the semi-finals.
Shabab Al Ahli beat Al Wasl on the 8th at Al Nasr's stadium. Shabab Al Ahli won 101-89 with Nick Minnerath, Qais Omar Al Shabibi, and Chavaughn Lewis leading the way. Chavaughn Lewis is one of the most recent additions for Shabab Al Ahli. He has a lot of experience playing in different European leagues including in Italy, Poland, Estonia, Russia, and more. He also played in the NBA Summer League for the Philidelphia 76ers and the Detroit Pistons.
The UAE Basketball Association's Instagram announced that the next games will be on Monday the 11th. The next games are scheduled as follows:
Al Dhafra vs Al Wasl - 19:00 - Al Wasl Sports Hall
Al Nasr vs Al Bataeh - 19:00 - Al Nasr Sports Hall
Stay tuned for more information and more coverage of the UAE Vice President's Cup!