Published: March 18, 2026
PAYNESVILLE — LPRC Oilers responded to their opening-day setback with a 64-55 victory over rivals Mighty Barrolle in the Liberia Basketball Association (LBA) First Division League, reasserting their title credentials with a composed performance.
The defending champions, who suffered a narrow 56-55 defeat to newly promoted Knight Reapers on Friday, took control early Monday night and never relinquished their advantage.
The Oilers led 19-13 after the first quarter and stretched the margin to 39-32 at halftime. They effectively sealed the game in the third quarter, holding Barrolle scoreless while adding 12 points to open a commanding 51-32 lead.
Barrolle mounted a late push in the fourth quarter, scoring 23 points behind new additions including U.S.-based guard Tyrin Hollis, but the deficit proved too large to overturn.
Adam W. Barduae led the Oilers with 15 points, three rebounds and one assist, earning player of the game honors.
Barrolle had entered the contest with momentum following a dominant 99-36 win over Cestos Mongers — a 63-point blowout — in their season opener.
Other First Division Results
In another closely contested matchup, NPA Pythons edged Knight Reapers 58-57 in a late thriller.
Second Division and Women’s Action
In the Second Division, Paynesville Bulldogs maintained their strong start with a 51-24 victory over Wolf Slammers on Sunday at the SKD Gym, building on their opening win over Phoenix Knights.
In the women’s division, Flames cruised past Supreme Sisters 58-21, while D-Rockas delivered a commanding 103-3 victory over Commissioners in a one-sided encounter at the SKD Gymnasium.
Ginny Johnson starred in the women’s fixtures, scoring 21 points, with three assists and three rebounds to earn player of the match honors.
Increased Incentives
LBA officials say champions in each division will benefit from increased cash prizes this season, following the government’s approval of $98,000 for basketball in the 2026 national budget — a move aimed at strengthening the sport’s development nationwide.
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