Kangoeroes Mechelen 85–90 Generali Okapi Aalstar: Aalstar Edges Heated BNXT Battle

Mechelen, Belgium – May 17, 2026 – In a tight BNXT league clash at Winketkaai, Generali Okapi Aalstar outlasted Kangoeroes Mechelen 90–85 to claim a crucial road victory. The contest was marked by lead changes and high-intensity defense, but Aalstar’s composure down the stretch made the difference.

Match Overview

From the opening tip, both sides traded baskets with Mechelen relying on inside scoring while Aalstar found rhythm from beyond the arc. The first half ended with the hosts holding a narrow 44–42 advantage. However, Aalstar’s backcourt duo took over in the third quarter, sparking a 28–19 run to build a seven-point lead heading into the fourth. Mechelen rallied behind aggressive drives to the rim, but missed free throws and key turnovers down the stretch allowed Aalstar to preserve the win.

Key Moments

• Third‑quarter surge: Aalstar opened the second half on a 12‑2 run, forcing Mechelen into a timeout. Guards knocked down three straight triples to flip the momentum.
• Late defensive stand: With 1:30 remaining and Mechelen trailing 87–85, Aalstar’s center blocked a layup attempt, and the subsequent fast‑break layup pushed the lead back to four.
• Clutch free throws: Aalstar shot 10‑of‑12 from the stripe in the final two minutes to ice the game.

Standout Performers

• Generali Okapi Aalstar: The backcourt combined for 48 points, with the point guard recording 22 points and 8 assists. The team’s shooting guard added 18 points and 4 steals.
• Kangoeroes Mechelen: The home side’s power forward posted a double‑double with 20 points and 12 rebounds, but lacked sufficient support from the bench (only 14 bench points).

Impact on the BNXT Standings

The win lifts Aalstar to a 17‑12 record, strengthening their position in the upper half of the BNXT table. Mechelen, now 15‑14, remains in the playoff hunt but must address defensive lapses in the final phase of the regular season. Both teams are expected to contend for a spot in the BNXT Finals in June.