Maktown Flyers’ Losing Streak Extends to Three Despite Butler Jr. Heroics
Nigerian Champions Collapse After Early Lead in Sahara Conference Clash
The Maktown Flyers’ bid to halt their losing streak in the Sahara Conference ended in disappointment on Friday as they squandered an 18‑point first‑quarter lead to fall 86-77 against Club Africain.
The Nigerian champions, now 1-4, showed promise early but could not withstand the Tunisian side’s second‑half surge.
James Butler Jr. paced the Flyers with 18 points, while Patrick Ogbodege Abah added 17. Their offensive rhythm in the opening quarter, a mix of mid‑range shots, long‑range accuracy, and fast‑break finishes, stunned Club Africain, who trailed 27-9.
At one point, the Flyers looked poised to secure a morale-boosting win, holding their largest lead of the Sahara Conference campaign.
But the tide turned dramatically in the third quarter. Club Africain’s switch to a zone defence disrupted the Flyers’ transition game, forcing contested shots and slowing their momentum.
Mohamed Hadidane, who had been scoreless in the first half, erupted with five three‑pointers in the third quarter, including the shot that gave the Tunisians their first lead at 44-43.
From that moment, the Flyers never regained control.
Despite Butler Jr. and Abah’s efforts, the Flyers struggled to respond to Club Africain’s composure. Their defence faltered under pressure, and their offence dried up as the game wore on. The loss marks their third consecutive defeat, leaving them with one final chance to salvage pride before the Kigali phase.
