There is a saying that goes, “If it walks like a duck and quacks like a duck, it probably is a duck.” Heading into Game 1 of the best-of-three playoff series between TUSK and GRA, everything pointed to a routine GRA win.

After all, this was the same TUSK team they had beaten twice already this season — once in the season opener (79–70) and again in the penultimate regular-season matchup (61–55). GRA looked every bit the favorite, even after losing fans’ MVP Nadel Ebo to their current opponents.

It walked like a duck. It quacked like a duck. But this time, it was not a duck.

From tip-off to final buzzer, TUSK played with hunger, grit, and heart. They ran harder, fought for every loose ball, and refused to let GRA settle into their rhythm. Arriving at the arena in “Whatever It Takes” branded shirts, the team perfectly embodied the playoffs’ #AllOnTheLine spirit. And when the game began, they lived up to that mantra — possession after possession.

THE TWO MUSKETEERS

In big games, Nadel Ebo often commands all the spotlight — and rightly so. But on Saturday night, he had the perfect partner in crime: Kenneth Fiifi Agyekumhene.

The duo combined beautifully to lead TUSK’s charge, scoring 17 and 16 points respectively, along with a combined five assists. On defense, Ebo was immense, recording a game-high five steals and setting the tone for TUSK’s relentless energy on both ends of the floor.

MISSING SOMEONE?

GRA, on the other hand, were noticeably missing their top scorer, Baniba Norbert Dodzi. He was seen in uniform but did not feature in the game, with details around his absence still unclear. Whether it was a fitness concern or a tactical choice, one thing is certain — Coach Dzimate’s men missed his presence badly. If they are to stay alive in this series, the Braves will need their leading scorer back — and firing.

WHAT NEXT?

The two sides meet again on Saturday, October 25, 2025, for Game 2. For GRA, it is a must-win — lose, and they are swept out of the playoffs. For TUSK, another victory would mean more than just a series win. It would be the confirmation that this time, the duck finally learned how to fight back.