By Umar Abdul Salam

JEDDAH — Ohud took the top spot in the standings by beating Ittihad 81–79 in the Saudi Basketball League here in Jeddah.

Ohud protected its basket by blocking shots and preventing inside play. Ohud’s Fredy Lee Nicholas poured in 28 points, big man Mohanned Enani Moraco 18 and Fadad Alsalik 12.

Ittihad’s Jordan Williams made 27, Justin Hawkins 18, while Mohammed and Methana Hassan scored 8 each. Ittihad couldn’t stop point guard Nicholas from penetrating or getting past big man Moraco to make a difference.

Hilal overpowered Wehdah 83-51 in another match. Hilal’s big main scorers were Abdul Rahman Al-Dosary (23), Dominic (16) and Fouad Al-Mitrif (12). Wehdah’s Mohammed Adam scored 13, while Hesam Bogaidi and Abdul Rahman Falater made 7 each.

Fateh ran over Nasser 77-54 and Ahli won over Al-Safa 79-67. Ahli’s Jones hit 27, Mazook 22 and Brown 10. For Al-Safa Haywood top scored with 22, Andrew contributed 17 and Ahmed Mohammed 15.