Dolphins BC overturn an 11-point halftime deficit to defeat Harare Kings 77-72 in their Road to BAL 2027 opener, delivering a dominant third-quarter performance in Lusaka to claim a crucial Division East Group E victory.
Last Updated on
October 30, 2026
Dolphins Basketball Club produced a remarkable second-half comeback to defeat Harare Kings 77-72 in Division East Group E action of the Road to BAL 2027 at Lusaka’s NASDEC Sports Complex in Zambia.
The Phins overturned an 11-point halftime deficit, outscoring their opponents 26-9 in a decisive third quarter before holding their nerve down the stretch.
Harare Kings established early control through their dominance inside the paint, opening the contest with a flurry of baskets around the rim. However, they struggled with perimeter shooting, connecting on just two of eight first-quarter three-point attempts.
Dolphins BC fared little better beyond the arc, converting just one of six attempts as the Kings took a 24-19 lead into the second quarter. The hosts maintained their offensive approach, dominating the paint despite another poor shooting display from distance. As a team, Harare made just one three-pointer on eight attempts.
Meanwhile, the Phins struggled to find an offensive rhythm, scoring only 15 points in the quarter. Although they improved slightly beyond the arc, converting two of seven attempts, their limited production inside the perimeter proved costly. Consequently, Harare Kings headed into halftime with a seemingly comfortable 46-35 lead.
Everything changed after the interval as the Botswana-based Phins produced an emphatic third-quarter response. They poured in 26 points while restricting Harare Kings to just nine, devouring an 11-point deficit into a 61-55 lead.
The Phins' much-needed defensive adjustments completely disrupted the hometown club’s offensive rhythm, limiting them to four successful field goals throughout the period. Harare responded in the fourth quarter, with both teams scoring 17 points in an evenly contested final period. However, Dolphins BC maintained their defensive discipline, particularly on the perimeter.
Dallan Coleman and guard Kesaobaka Ndawanyana provided the Phins’ only three-pointers, while their teammates shut down Harare’s long-range attempts. Despite those struggles, the Kings cut the deficit to two points with 04:36 remaining. Nevertheless, Dolphins BC withstood the late scoring pressure to secure an important 77-72 victory.
Both teams struggled from three, with Harare converting just 14.3 per cent of their attempts. The Phins fare slightly better, shooting 25.9 per cent from distance. Harare’s dominance on the boards remains evident, finishing with 54 rebounds and 16 second-chance points. Dolphins BC collect 44 rebounds and seven second-chance points. However, the Phins compensate by forcing 22 turnovers and converting those opportunities into 18 points.
Dolphins BC now turn their attention towards Saturday’s second Group E fixture against Bravehearts, while Harare Kings face Soweto Panthers.
