Road and Transport Authority put up an incredible all-round performance to edge past Dubai Courts in a thrilling third-place play-off at the 13th Nad Al Sheba Wheelchair Basketball Tournament on Tuesday night.

Held at the Dubai Club for People of Determination halls, the bronze medal match lived up to its billing, delivering all the elements of an edge-of-the-seat encounter.

Riding on the efforts of their shooters Terapong Basumsab and Tariq A-Yasi, Road and Transport Authority overcame an 11-point deficit after the second quarter to secure a 64-58 victory at the Dubai Club for People of Determination halls.

The match began as a neck-and-neck affair, with both teams displaying strong offensive and defensive tactics. The first quarter ended 19-all.

Trailing 44-51 after the third quarter, RTA produced a remarkable final and fourth quarter, scoring 20 points compared to Dubai Courts’ nine — thanks to their disciplined offensive and defensive play. Terapong and Tariq capitalised on penalties and key chances to guide the team to victory.

For Dubai Courts, Natthakan Chaotarakan, the Thailand national team player, impressed with his sharp shooting skills.

CEO of the Dubai Club for People of Determination, Majid Al Usaimi, who graced the bronze medal match at the club halls, praised the high-level competition at this year’s NAS Wheelchair Basketball Tournament.

“The level of competition witnessed in this year’s NAS Wheelchair Basketball competition is an indication of how far the event has come. We are very grateful to be the proud hosts of the league games of the competition, along with the bronze medal match. We hope to see another thrilling game, just like the bronze medal encounter, in the final as well.

“We are thankful to all the players and stakeholders for being part of these championships. All the very best to the teams playing the final.”

Al Usaimi also extended his thanks to the UAE leadership, including His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the UAE Olympic Committee and Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council, for their continued trust and support for the Dubai Club for People of Determination and its events during the holy month of Ramadan.

A total of 10 teams competed in this year’s NAS Wheelchair Basketball Tournament, with the final set to be played at the NAS Sports Complex on Wednesday night.