A classic confrontation is on the cards when Alaxan FR Patriots take on Pate 310 in the first of the three matches slated for Saturday at the Beeline Arena as the Cambodian Basketball League, sponsored by Western Union and Coca-Cola, resumes after a week’s break.

Having lost to Extra Joss Warriors a breathtaking free-throw thriller, Pate 310 will be looking for a swing in fortunes, and the manner in which they stood up to the Warriors’s three tall men in that game should give them confidence in dealing with some of the giants among the Patriots.

Speed is what Pate will be heavily banking on to deal with Patriots all-round ability.

Meanwhile, the young all-Cambodian NSK Dream will have their work cut out against Galaxy, who are mainly made up of players from China.

Galaxy’s surprise package was Kelvin Chau, whose 20 points set up his side’s victory over Post Buffaloes last time, but they may find the going tough against NSK, whose mainstays are Sok Pagna and Chim Chandara. The Dream’s fate may hinge on how well this pair performs.

Saturday’s card concludes with an interesting match-up between Extra Joss Warriors and Post Buffaloes.

While the Warriors will try hard to maintain their winning momentum, the key to the team’s success could well be Ley Denestrosa, whose 30 points stood out against Pate.

The Buffaloes will be eager to see one of their key players, Kosal Khiev, back in action after missing the first game. The side will also feel much relieved at play time if Jay Roden were to report full recovery from his leg injury.

Extra Joss Warriors v Post Buffaloes – 6pm