Basketball Africa League - The Big Tip Off

Ozabor ready to take giant career leap

JOSHUA Ozabor explains that two years ago, while playing in South Africa’s national club championship, he was naive about how serious the competition was and what it would have meant had the team he played for won the final.

Ozabor, one of the standout players for the Johannesburg Giants in the recently concluded BAL Kalahari Conference, which ended in disappointment, says playing for the haphazardly put-together Tip-Off Sport Vikings at the 2024 national tournament was a wake-up call.

Despite being a hastily arranged outfit, the then Florsheim Ngwenya-coached Vikings made it to the final but lost to MBB, who would earn the ticket to represent South Africa at last year’s BAL. During a telephonic interview with The Big Tip Off, the athletic Ozabor, who was playing NCAA Division I basketball at the time, recalled the lesson he learned two years ago.

“Not to take anything for granted,” said Ozabor, a former Bryant University Bulldogs player. “At that time, I was still at university. I was back for like three or four weeks. I think that was the third game I was playing in that tournament. I did not know what it was for. I was close with Florsh, who asked me to come and play and get some experience. I took that final for granted. I treated it like a normal game, not understanding the ramifications.

“It taught me that no matter where you are playing or who you are playing, you always have to come with that competitive mindset to win.”

Joshua Ozabor BAL Kalahari 2026 — **Joshua Ozabor feels the BAL showed he can get to his spots. Pictures: The BTO**

The attitude adjustment showed last year, and he won. This time, it was with the less-than-a-year-old Giants, who captured the national title and had a dream run in the Road to BAL, which led to automatic qualification for this year’s BAL Season 6. Sadly for Ozabor and Co., their Kalahari Conference debut held in South Africa’s capital, Tshwane, did not go according to script.

A humbling 0-5 record saw the Giants make an early exit. Despite finishing last in the opening leg of the BAL – the Kalahari Conference – Ozabor was one of the team’s shining lights. The 23-year-old statuesque baller averaged 14.8 points, 3 assists, and 4 rebounds during the Kalahari Conference. Ozabor was second in minutes (31.9) for the Giants in the five games he played, and he hit double figures after a quiet seven points in the opening game against Dar City.

Ozabor scored 18 points vs Nairobi City Thunder, 17 points vs RSSB Tigers, 13 points vs Al Ahly Libya and 19 points vs Petro de Luanda. While he held his own in terms of points production, he feels he could have done more to improve the fortunes of the Giants.

“Individually, numbers-wise, I did pretty well,” said Ozabor. “I am my own harshest critic. I feel I could have done better. Especially in that first game, I wish I could have done more offensively and defensively.”

While the Giants’ debut BAL campaign ended disappointingly, Ozabor feels his performances can only propel him forward.

“I am grateful for the opportunity. What I did in the tournament will help progress my career,” said Ozabor. “I definitely could have done better. Especially at the free-throw line. Just overall shooting percentage-wise I could have done better.”

He did feel he was able to get to his spots and make shots. “In terms of the aspects of my game that helped. Definitely my floaters and my finishing at the rim,” said Ozabor. “I thought I did a pretty good job putting the ball in places I know I wouldn’t get blocked.”

While a tournament of this magnitude requires meticulous preparation, sadly, the Giants were found wanting in that department, as competition in South Africa is not on par with leagues in Angola, Rwanda and Libya – countries which are home to the clubs that finished in the top three of the Kalahari Conference.

Joshua Ozabor JHB Giants BAL 2026 — **Joshua Ozabor put up some good numbers at the Kalahari Conference.**

Ozabor pointed to the experience factor and how it may have counted against them at the Kalahari Conference.

“I know for the most part, other than two imports (Jakobi Heady and Caleb Magua) and David Craig, the guys I was playing with, we had been together for a bit. Since last year, October,” said Ozabor. “Obviously, we are a new team. Many of these teams have played together, and as organisations, they have been around for over ten years.

“Individually, players like Nino (Dim) or Vees (Aviwe Mahlong) prepared extremely hard… As hard as they could have. We had been together since February, maybe we could have started earlier, but I think we prepared as hard as we could have for this opportunity.”

Having had the experience of facing off against high-calibre players like Childe Dundao, Nisre Zouzoua and the Jean Jacques Boissy’s of this world, how did he feel he measured up?

“The best play against the best of the best,” said Ozabor. “As a team, we never felt overwhelmed or scared. We didn’t perform to the level we should have, but we never doubted our abilities. It’s basketball at the end of the day, and there has to be a winner and a loser.

“Individually, or if I speak for myself and people like Nino and Aviwe, we feel like we are right up there with all those players. We are definitely younger and less experienced than they are, but when we step on the floor against them, we didn’t feel inadequate. We had trust in our work, our abilities and trust in God.”

Joshua Ozabor JHB Giants — **Joshua Ozabor enjoyed playing in front of his friends and family.**

With the Kalahari Conference being held in Pretoria, Ozabor says he enjoyed playing in front of “friends and family”.

“It was a blessing. Of course, we did not get the results we wanted, but playing in front of my friends and family is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” said Ozabor. “Every time you score a point or make a good play, you look to the side and see people that you know. The atmosphere as well… Seeing the fans there cheering… The overall excitement in the air. It was overwhelming at times and just a blessing to be a part of.”

The BAL season may have ended earlier than expected for Ozabor and the Giants, but his performances on that stage were surely enough to attract potential suitors for his services.

While there isn’t anything concrete yet about his future, Ozabor is taking everything in and hopes he does not have to wait too long to be rewarded for his talents.

“My family and I are still deciding that right now. By God’s grace, I’ll progress in my career. Whatever continent or country that is… We are still processing everything…. Still making decisions about who I want to do that with. By God’s grace, I’ll know soon enough. I am just grateful to Jesus Christ for having had the opportunity, which I had,” said Ozabor.

It is clear Ozabor moves by faith. With his added maturity brought by experience, he will be able to navigate obstacles on and off the court.

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Gonçalves, Gakou and Dundão fuelling Petro’s success

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GERSON Gonçalves, Aboubakar Gakou, and Childe Dundão; three names that have become synonymous with excellence across the Basketball Africa League. Shooting, playmaking, defensive intensity, control, and that unmistakable Angolan flair, but none of this was guaranteed.

In another life, they are a doctor. A chemical engineer. A civil engineer.

Structured paths. Certain futures. Instead, they chose a different kind of pursuit; one that demanded just as much discipline, precision, and intent. Stepping into an institution already rich in history at Petro de Luanda, they have become central to the club’s evolution.

It is within that balance, between legacy and reinvention, that this Petro core has defined itself. And during the recently concluded Kalahari Conference, The Big Tip Off caught up with the group to unpack what sustains their dominance: the spirit, the system, and the shared understanding that continues to set them apart.

A culture that sustains itself

Across Africa, soccer dominates as the continent’s most popular sport, but in Angola, basketball has long held the spotlight. The country has produced a string of stars, cultivated a storied tradition of excellence, and built a reputation for teams and players who consistently compete at the highest levels. You can feel it in packed arenas, neighbourhood courts, and the rhythm of every street game, a pulse that runs through the nation.

To understand Petro is to understand that environment, where basketball is more than a sport; it is a standard, a language, a way of life.

“Basketball is the most important sport in Angola,” Gakou explained. “Young people grow up loving the game.” It is a culture built not only on success, but also on aspiration, visibility, creating opportunities, and excellence, inspiring the next generation.

Every practice, tournament, and street pickup game carries echoes of the players who came before, and the influence of decorated figures is tangible.

Childe Dundao the BAL April 2026 — **Childe Dundão is the on-court brain of the Petro team. Picture: The BTO**

The standard and the target

Sustained success inevitably shifts perception. Petro de Luanda are no longer chasing – they have become the standard.

“Yes, of course,” Gakou said when asked if they are the team to beat. “If other teams want to be great in the BAL, they have to beat Petro first. That’s why we have a target on our backs.”

That awareness doesn’t come with discomfort – it comes with clarity. Petro knows exactly where they stand within the league, and more importantly, what that position demands. Having competed in every BAL season without fail, played more games than any other club, and reached the semi-finals in each of the first five editions, winning the championship once, finishing second twice, claiming bronze, and taking fourth, they are the standard by which others measure themselves.

Pressure, in that sense, is not an exception to their experience; it is part of it. “In basketball, there is always pressure,” Gakou explained. “Every night we step on the court, there is pressure. But we are used to it.”

Rather than resist it, Petro has absorbed pressure into their process. The expectation to win has become routine, and it, in turn, has become their advantage. “Every practice is about being ready for the game,” Gonçalves added. It is this consistency in preparation, rather than moments of brilliance, that has allowed them to maintain their dominance across seasons.

Being the team everyone targets brings constant pressure: intense scrutiny, high expectations, and the need to prove your excellence again every single night. For Petro, that is not a burden; it is part of the standard they set, and one they uphold.

Living the legacy

What makes Petro’s current moment unique is that the past is not separate from the present; it exists alongside it. For this Petro core, that connection is deeply personal. “We grew up watching players like Carlos Morais,” he shared. “That’s what shaped us.”

Morais himself was a key part of Petro de Luanda until the end of the BAL’s fourth season, helping the club secure the championship. Throughout his career, he has achieved success – securing four AfroBasket titles, a FIBA Africa Clubs Champions Cup, and a BAL title; a legacy of excellence that continues to set the standard for the current core.

“I grew up watching those players,” Gakou reflected. “Now we are in the same locker room. I didn’t dream of that.”

Alongside Morais, Olimpio Cipriano, now part of the coaching staff, brings his own decorated legacy, with four AfroBasket medals and five FIBA Africa Clubs Champions Cup titles. Together, they are not just symbols of the past; they are active contributors to the present.

“It means a lot,” Gonçalves shared. “We have a big responsibility to be here and to do great things.”

These standards are not merely remembered; they are actively lived and reinforced each day by those who helped establish them. “That’s why our mentality is tough,” Childe Dundão added.

For this group, legacy is not something to reflect on later; it is something they are actively participating in now, a continuation of a culture that sustains itself and defines what it means to be the best.

Gerson Goncalves BAL 2026 Season 6 — **Gerson Goncalves provides calm during the storm for Petro.**

When winning means more

If the Season 4 BAL title validated Petro’s status, last August’s AfroBasket reshaped their perspective. After 12 long years without a continental crown, Angola reclaimed the AfroBasket title, winning it for the 12th time and cementing its place as the country with the most championships. That 12-year gap made this victory particularly elusive, a reminder that even the most prolific teams face moments of challenge, expectation, and the weight of history.

In a fairytale run, the national team went undefeated at home, playing in front of packed arenas every night. The roar of 12,000 fans made it feel like every opponent was facing the full weight of the nation, not just the 12 players on the court. The energy, the expectation, and the pride intertwined, creating a stage that elevated every play, every defensive stop, every fast break.

“For our generation, we hadn’t won anything with the national team,” Gonçalves explained. “So it meant a lot, for us and for the whole country.”

The difference was not just in the result, but in the context in which it occurred. Playing at home transformed the experience into something collective, a shared triumph that extended far beyond the players themselves. It was about connection, between teammates, fans, and the nation.

“We saw the people supporting us,” he said. “At a time when the country wasn’t doing so well, we were able to give them joy. To make them believe.”

That moment reframed what winning meant. It shifted from a personal or team achievement to something deeper: a responsibility to inspire, to lift spirits, and to leave a mark beyond the court. It was a reminder that basketball, at its best, is not just about trophies – it can also lift a nation’s morale.

And when they returned to Petro, they carried that shift with them. “We came back with the same energy, the same focus,” he said. “To do the same thing.”

Growth in parallel

For Childe Dundão, the evolution of Petro de Luanda mirrors his own. “When I was young, I was just trying to play,” he shared. “But when I grew up, my goals changed. I started to take the game more seriously, to become a better professional.”

His path wasn’t guided by early certainty, but shaped through a gradual process of realisation. “I don’t think it’s what I imagined,” he admitted when asked about whether he had thought he would become AfroBasket MVP and now lead as captain. “But I’ve grown into it.”

Standing at 5 ft 6, Dundão’s success has not always been a given; it has been built through repetition, consistency, and an environment that demands progression without forcing it. That growth is now evident in his production.

During the Kalahari Conference this season, he averaged a team-high 18.8 points per game, along with five assists and 2 steals, a significant leap from Season 5, where he averaged 6 points, 4.8 assists, and 1.2 steals per game.

Time, continuity, and simplicity

The nature of the BAL means that compressed conference windows leave little room for adjustment, and a byproduct of this is that time and chemistry become currency, and few teams possess both quite like Petro does.

“We’ve been together for more than six years,” Gonçalves shared. “That chemistry is the key.”

In a league where roster turnover is common and continuity rare, that stability has become their greatest asset. For Petro, chemistry is not an abstract concept that they have ever had to scramble to build, and it has been evident in their on-court decision-making, spacing, and trust.

“We know where to find each other,” he explained. “We know everyone’s spots, I know that Abou will be in the corner. Everything is already understood.”

That understanding removes hesitation. It allows Petro’s players to play instinctively, to move without overthinking, and to trust without second-guessing. It also explains why Petro can translate domestic success into continental performance, a challenge which can be a stumbling block for many teams.

And yet, despite everything they have achieved, there is no sense of reinvention. “Not much has changed,” Gakou reflected. “The base is still here, and we know that if we defend well, we will win,” he said.

This philosophy strips the game back to its essentials, removing complexity in favour of execution. And in that simplicity lies their strength.

Aboubakar Gakou Petro BAL 2026 — **Aboubabakar Gakou is a two-way threat for Petro de Luanda.**

What they leave behind

For all the systems, structure, and success, the question of legacy remains central. What has Petro de Luanda truly built? Internally, the answer has always been clear.

“It’s the spirit of the team. We are very united, and we play as a team. That’s our identity,” shared Gonçalves. “We don’t play to separate; we play together. Everyone plays for each other.” From the outside, Petro’s dominance appears to be a result of consistency. However, from within, it is something far more deliberate, something constructed with patience.

When asked how they wanted the Petro group to be remembered, the answer came without hesitation: “The most consistent team in the BAL,” shared Dundão with conviction, while Gakou added, “The best team of all time.”

It is an ambitious statement, but it is not an empty one. For Petro, this has never been solely about winning in the moment. It has always been about building something that lasts.

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Thrills and records of the Kalahari Conference

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AFTER 10 days of intense basketball, high-scoring and record-breaking feats characterised the BAL’s Kalahari Conference. The Big Tip Off’s Sandisiwe Msibi highlights the moments which shaped the Conference, which ended on Sunday in Pretoria, South Africa.

RSSB Tigers and Petro de Luanda both finished 4-1 to claim the top two spots, followed by Al Ahly Libya at 3-2 and Dar City at 2-3, securing the final playoff berths, while Nairobi City Thunder (2-3) narrowly missed out on qualification and the Johannesburg Giants (0-5) finished winless in their debut campaign.

Historic moments and broken records

The Kalahari Conference will go down in history for rewriting and creating BAL history. Tigers guard Craig Randall delivered a phenomenal performance, breaking a BAL scoring record of 54 points and 11 assists against Dar City. He finished the conference averaging 36.3 assists, leading the conference in scoring, despite not playing the last game against NCT.

“My teammates and my coaches put more trust in me than I could ask for,” Randall said. “I do not take that for granted. It is easy to come out here and play with confidence and have fun.”

Al Ahly Libya produced a record-breaking offensive performance, scoring 118 points against Dar City, one of the highest team totals in BAL history. In that same game, Damion Baugh registered 18 assists, setting a new league record and surpassing the previous mark of 16.

Baugh also achieved a historic milestone, becoming the first player in BAL history to record a triple-double, posting 11 points, 10 assists, and 11 rebounds in Al Ahly’s last game against the Johannesburg Giants. He finished the conference as the assist leader with 10.0 assists per game.

Petro vs Tigers 06 April 2026 — **Petro de Luanda and RSSB Tigers finished the Kalahari Conference with identical (4-1) records. Pictures: The BTO.**

RSSB Tigers (Rwanda)

The most remarkable story of the Kalahari Conference was undoubtedly the RSSB Tigers, a team that didn’t even exist in the BAL ecosystem until two weeks before the tournament began.

To finish the conference with four wins, only losing their final game against the fifth-seeded Nairobi City Thunder (in which conference-leading scorer Randall did not play), represents one of the most improbable success stories in BAL history.

When asked about his team’s performance in this conference, head coach Henry Mwinuka summed up by saying, “This is for our country, Rwanda.”

Petro de Luanda (Angola)

The 2024 champs continued to build on their legacy of excellence, securing the second seed with a 4-1 record. Their consistent performance reaffirms their status as one of the premier clubs in African basketball.

Petro’s coach Sergio Moreno was left impressed by the depth of his squad, emphasising their collective strength: “We finished the competition doing well in defence.” In my team, there aren’t only one or two important players. Everyone is important, whether we lose or win.”

Al Ahly Benghazi (Libya)

After starting 0-2 with losses to RSSB Tigers and Petro de Luanda, the Libyan champions were staring at elimination. Then came their dramatic turnaround.

Coach Ahmed Soliman reflected on the challenging start: “Two losses were very hard for us, but everybody put in effort… we had to adjust as a team,” he said.

Forward Lual Acuil echoed that sentiment: “The first two games we did not play well…. We knew as time went on that we were going to have good chemistry.” He continued, praising Baugh for how he has been letting everyone get involved.

What was most notable with Al Ahly’s rotations was the limited minutes of reigning MVP Jean Jacques Boissy. Despite limited playing time, he still concluded the conference with a strong average of 12.2 points per game, shooting 31% from beyond the arc.

Hasheen Thabeet Dar City 2026 April 6 — **Hasheem Thabeet and Dar City earned a BAL playoffs spot on debut.**

Dar City (Tanzania)

The Tanzanian debutants secured the last playoff spot with a 2-3 record. The team started strong with two wins but struggled to maintain momentum in the latter stages of the conference.

“We are a very young team, three years since we have been in existence. It’s our first time playing in the BAL,” said Dar City coach Pabi Gueye.

When asked about potential adjustments ahead of the playoffs, head coach Mamadou Gueye emphasised the need to strengthen his frontcourt: “It’s too early to say, but we need to reinforce our front court and execute better in that area.”

Nairobi City Thunder (Kenya)

In their second BAL season, the Kenyans finished 5th in the standings, winning two games against the top-seeded RSSB Tigers and the last-seeded Johannesburg Giants.

Forward Josh Nzeakor, reflecting on his second season in the league, noted the increasing competition: “I played in this league five years ago, and the competition increases every single year. We had a lot of guys that were locally based, so it was a learning curve,” said Nzeakor. “Overall, I think we did well, and I think that next year we will be a lot better.”

To the fans, he expressed heartfelt gratitude: “We appreciate everything, we see all the messages, we see all the support and you guys could not have been any better.”

Johannesburg Giants (South Africa)

The odds were stacked against the hosts from the outset, as they finished the conference winless. Despite boasting a South African-first roster construction and coach Florsheim Ngwenya, who led Cape Town Tigers to the 2024 semifinals, the Giants never quite adjusted to the pace and intensity of BAL competition.

After their fourth loss, a contrite Ngwenya apologised to the home supporters: “I just want to apologise to our fans who came out to support us from day one. They showed up in numbers and paid their money to be here. We are better than what we showed them, there was a lack of fight from our guys, and that’s disappointing. The fans come, they clap, they shout, and they spend their hard-earned money. We didn’t give them what they deserve.”

Nairobi City Thunder (NCT) vs Johannesburg Giants — **Nairobi City Thunder and the Johannesburg Giants bowed out of the competition.**

Yet at the conclusion of the conference, when asked to rate his team out of 10, Ngwenya offered a surprising perspective: “I’d give them 10. I am not saying that they are playing 10 out of 10, but they made it here.”

Ngwenya continued, emphasising the developmental nature of their campaign: “The Johannesburg Giants are still a work in progress,” he said. “Most of these guys got the experience, and we will be a different team next year because of the experience we accumulated.”

Giants captain Pieter Prinsloo offered insight into the broader challenges facing South African basketball: “All these teams are playing in professional leagues that run for 7-9 months. It is hard [for us] to simulate the speed, the execution and the physical toughness when it comes to preparations without leaving the country. As the coach said, we will have to travel and do a training camp outside of the country, where we will be able to face high-level competition and simulate what we will be playing against every single day.”

Raising the bar

The 2026 Kalahari Conference showcased everything that defines the Basketball Africa League: elite competition, emerging stars, passionate fans, and historic performances.

From the RSSB Tigers’ fairy-tale rise to Al Ahly Libya’s record-breaking night, and despite the struggles of the hosts, the tournament delivered compelling stories across the board.

As the focus shifts north to Morocco, one thing is clear: African basketball is evolving rapidly, and the road to Kigali promises even more drama.

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All to play for in the Kalahari Conference

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WITH three game days remaining, the BAL Kalahari Conference has begun to separate, but not entirely settle. Through the opening stretch, identities have taken shape, margins have emerged, and for some, urgency is already unavoidable.

While a team like the RSSB Tigers Rwanda has created an early distance at the top, much of the table remains defined by fine margins, inconsistent execution, and the pressure of what’s still to come. What follows now is less about discovery and more about response.

Control established at the Top

The RSSB Tigers Rwanda have not only taken the top spot but also redefined what early momentum can look like. Stepping in as late replacements for APR BBC just weeks before the conference tipped off. Their presence alone came with uncertainty. And yet, three games in, they remain undefeated. Their rise has not been built on reputation, but on daily progression; layer by layer, game by game.

If it takes 21 days to build a habit, then the Tigers are living proof of that process in real time. What has emerged is a team that has built cohesion under pressure, finding rhythm not before the tournament, but within it. The Tigers’ +25 point differential highlights their growth, structure, discipline, and rising confidence.

They are no longer a surprise. They are the standard.

Petro de Luanda in action BAL Season 6 April 2026 — **Petro de Luanda have looked steady in the Kalahari Conference. Pictures: The BTO**

Close behind, but not secure

Both Petro de Luanda of Angola and Dar City of Tanzania sit at 2–1, but their trajectories continue to offer different insights into their potential.

Petro’s +37 point differential, the best in the conference, highlights a team capable of dominance. At their best, they create separation with ease, controlling tempo and imposing themselves physically. But beyond the numbers, there is context behind their edge.

With players coming off an AfroBasket title in August, Petro are playing with a level of confidence and continuity that few teams can replicate. That winning experience, combined with the presence of reigning AfroBasket MVP Childe Dundão, has translated into composure in key moments and an ability to dictate stretches of play.

Their ceiling remains one of the highest in the conference, but as their record shows, sustaining that dominance consistently remains the next step. DarCity’s record suggests stability, but beneath that are structural concerns that could become decisive.

Their offensive flow is built on cohesion, with players like Nisre Zouzoua key to creating quality looks within the system. Their lone loss exposed a key vulnerability: a lack of depth. When Zouzoua found himself in foul trouble and David Micheneau effectively contained, their offensive options narrowed significantly.

In those moments, much of the burden fell on Michael Foster, underscoring the imbalance in the roster beyond their import players. While they have been exceptional, the drop-off beyond that core has limited their flexibility. Against more physical or well-prepared opponents, that lack of comparable support becomes easier to exploit. Sitting with a 2-1 record, they remain firmly in position, but their margin for error is thinner than it appears.

A Work in Progress

Few teams present as intriguing a case as Al Ahly Ly Libya. On paper, their ceiling rivals anyone in the conference. With two former BAL MVPs anchoring the roster, alongside impactful pieces like Majok Deng and Mohamed Sadi, the expectation is clear. And yet, through three games, that potential has only appeared in flashes. Much of that was because of circumstances.

Late arrivals in Pretoria disrupted their ability to build early chemistry, and at times, the disconnect was prevalent in their execution. But if their most recent performance is any indication, those early gaps may be closing.

There were signs of rhythm, of alignment, of a team beginning to understand itself. If that continues, Al Ahly may shift from chasing the standings to comfortably booking their ticket to Kigali.

Nairobi City Thunder BAL Season 6 Kalahari Conference — **Nairobi City Thunder need find consistency.**

Caught Between Contention and Urgency

The Nairobi City Thunder of Kenya remain difficult to define. With a 1–2 record and a -26 point differential, their campaign has been a tale of inconsistency, moments of promise undercut by lapses in execution. The gap between their best and worst stretches within games remains significant, particularly on the defensive end.

And yet, they remain within reach, and their path is still open, but it demands a level of control and composure that has so far been elusive.

Searching for a Response

For the Joburg Giants in South Africa, the urgency is immediate and personal. A winless start at home, combined with a -49 point differential, reflects a campaign that has yet to find stability. And with two difficult fixtures ahead, the margin for recovery continues to shrink.

There have, however, been some good signs, particularly in their performance against the Tigers. While the result did not shift, the competitiveness did. Players like Nkosinathi Sibanyoni, Nino Dim, Joshua Ozabor, and Jakobi Heady showed glimpses of the consistency and edge the team has been searching for.

What remains a concern is the form of Captain Pieter Prinsloo. Averaging just 4 points per game, he has yet to impose himself in the way he has in previous BAL campaigns, where he often carried the offensive load. His struggles have mirrored the team’s broader challenges in finding rhythm and leadership on the floor. For the Giants, the question is no longer about potential; it is about response.

What Will Decide the Final Spots

With the standings still unsettled below the top, the final three game days will come down to the smallest details:

Late-game execution and decision-making
Turnover control and shot selection
Defensive consistency across four quarters
Depth and the ability to withstand foul trouble or defensive adjustments

For some teams, those advantages are already clear. For others, they remain unresolved.

Johannesburg Giants BAL Season 6 2026 — **The Giants have had a winless run at the Kalahari Conference.**

Nothing is set in stone

The Kalahari Conference is nearing conclusion. The Tigers have turned uncertainty into control. Petro de Luanda, backed by a championship pedigree, and Dar City, balancing cohesion with underlying limitations, remain firmly within striking distance. Behind them, Al Ahly Ly are beginning to align at just the right time. With three game days remaining, the margins are no longer theoretical – they are defining.

And in a conference shaped by both preparation and adaptation, the final stretch will reveal which teams have truly built something sustainable and which will leave Pretoria still searching!

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Sky is the limit for Zouzoua and DarCity

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THE Kalahari Conference has highlighted the BAL’s depth of talent across every position. However, based on the opening stretch of games, Nisre Zouzoua has already made a strong case to be recognised among the standout performers of the opening leg.

The Ivorian guard, now in his second BAL campaign with Dar City, has played a central role in the East African side’s early success. Notably, he stands out as the only player on the roster with prior BAL experience, a distinction that has quietly shaped both his influence and responsibility within the group.

Adding to Zouzoua’s experience is a DarCity coaching staff with a proven track record at the highest level of the competition. Head coach Pabi Gueye, the 2023 BAL Coach of the Year, previously led AS Douanes to the finals, while assistant coach Nabil Kabalan was part of the staff that guided Al Ahli Tripoli to the Season 5 title.

Zouzoua’s journey with Dar City, however, began before the main stage. After featuring for FUS Rabat last season, he joined the club ahead of the Road to BAL qualifiers. Although Dar City fell short in the semi-finals, a wildcard would guarantee their entry to the continental showpiece. While much of the local core remained intact, Zouzoua emerged as the only import to carry that journey through, from qualification to this season’s BAL. It’s a decision that would come to define both his role and his connection to the team.

Finishing What They Started

For Zouzoua, returning was not a foregone conclusion. After a campaign that would end short of qualification, there were different paths he could have taken following his first experience in the Basketball Africa League. Instead, he chose continuity, committing himself to a Dar City side still in the early stages of its journey, and one that had only just begun to show what it could become.

“When I first got there, I didn’t really know what to expect,” he shared. “But honestly, just developing the bond that I got with the guys that were there, the coaching staff and the president, I felt like I just wanted to finish what we started.”

Nisre Zouzoua BAL 2026 Season 6 March — **Nisre Zouzoua has been impressive for DarCity at the Kalahari Conference. Pictures: The BTO**

At just three years of existence, the East African club is still defining its identity. For Zouzoua, that presented something more compelling than certainty: the opportunity to be part of a story in progress. That decision reflects the belief in the project and a desire to be part of something larger than a single season.

“Just a chance to honestly do something for the first time in that country, to help them qualify for the BAL would be something special to me,” he added. “To be a part of history.”

Responsibility and Trust

Being the only returning import has naturally expanded his role within the group. Beyond his production, he has taken on the responsibility of anchoring a group still finding its rhythm, serving as a point of connection between new imports, the local core, and the realities of the Basketball Africa League.

That role is not only about experience, it is also about translation: of expectations, of style, and of the demands that come with competing at this level.

“I’ve had to take on more responsibility,” he explained. “But my teammates encouraged me, my coaches encouraged me, it’s honestly just been fun being able to help the other imports and give them expectations of what it’s going to be like.”

In many ways, his relationship with head coach Pabi Gueye reinforces that responsibility, giving structure to his role while still allowing room for expression.

“He’s hard on me. He holds me accountable,” Zouzoua said. “But he also gives me the freedom to be me on the basketball court.”

It is within that balance, accountability on one end and trust on the other, that Zouzoua has found clarity. Clarity in how he plays, in how he leads, understanding when to assert himself and when to operate within the flow of the team.

Chemistry by Design

On the court, that sense of connection and trust has translated into production, most notably in Zouzoua’s partnership with David Benoit. In a short space of time, the two have developed a rhythm that feels both natural and deliberate, with an ability to shift responsibility depending on the moment.

In the opening game, Benoit’s all-around performance, 27 points, 9 assists, and 5 steals, complemented Zouzoua’s 35-point display, balancing creation and scoring. That dynamic shifted in the next outing, with Benoit taking on a heavier scoring load (39 points), as Zouzoua adjusted, contributing 20 points and five rebounds and helping with the playmaking duties. Even in their first loss, that structure remained evident, despite Zouzoua’s rhythm being disrupted by early foul trouble.

For Zouzoua, that balance is not accidental. It is rooted in a mindset that prioritises decision-making over individual output and ensuring that he doesn’t get too high or too low.

“I’m just trying to make the right play on each possession,” he said. “I try not to get overly high in those moments, just take everything possession by possession.”

When asked about nearing a single-game scoring record, he paused and laughed at the idea of chasing it.

“I figured it out with like four minutes left but I didn’t want to start forcing it,” he added. “If it’s supposed to happen, it’ll happen.”

Nisre Zouzoua BAL Season 5 2025 — **Nisre Zouzoua played for FUS Rabat in his first BAL in 2025.**

A Culture That Travels

Beyond tactics and rotations, Dar City’s identity has been shaped by its culture, one that extends beyond the players on the floor and into the way the group carries itself as a collective. In a league like the Basketball Africa League, playing in a city like Pretoria, crowd support is rarely guaranteed, especially against the home team. Yet, in those moments, Dar City has managed to create something of a home away from home.

“It means everything to us,” Zouzoua said. “That just goes to show the type of culture we have, the family culture that they’ve built.”

Teammates not on the 12-man roster still travelled, still showed up, still invested in the outcome, reinforcing a sense of unity that has become central to the team’s identity. Even in an away environment, that presence carries weight.

“In a game versus Johannesburg, they have the home court advantage, but to look back and see people behind our bench rooting for us, it means a lot.”

Lessons and Margins

This culture is more than just a feel-good story to Zouzoua. It is the foundation for sustained success in a league as competitive as the Basketball Africa League. Having previously played for FUS Rabat, he knows how fine the margins can be.

“I really admired how those guys played together. There wasn’t a team full of huge egos,” he reflected. “Just learning to play together, be together.”

That lesson has carried into this Dar City group, shaping how he and the team approach each game.

“I feel like the teams that stay together, those are the teams that advance,” Zouzoua said. “Basketball is a game of runs, and with so many games in a short time, that’s a lot of runs.” Off-court preparation is equally critical. With a strong start behind them and the playoffs within arm’s reach, the focus remains internal.

“I believe we’re capable of achieving anything,” he said. “As long as we take everything one game at a time, the sky’s the limit.”

For Zouzoua and Dar City, the story is still unfolding. However, if the early signs are anything to go by, the conversations about them are no longer just about potential. They instead shift to a team, and a player, intent on finishing what they started, united by a culture that makes every teammate, every supporter, and every possession count.

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Mpoyo, Tigers set on keeping BAL trophy in Rwanda

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THE last time Axel Mpoyo stepped onto the floor at SunBet Arena in Pretoria, South Africa, he delivered one of the defining performances of Season 5 of the BAL; an electric 8-for-9 shooting display from beyond the arc to secure APR BBC and Rwanda’s first-ever BAL podium finish.

It was a masterclass that had Tracy McGrady on his feet on the sidelines, as the arena buzzed with an energy that felt far bigger than a third-place game. For a moment, it felt as though Rwanda had won it all.

But beyond the spectacle, it signalled something deeper: a nation beginning to understand how to compete, and succeed, on this stage.

In an interview with The Big Tip Off, Mpoyo shared that his recent performance was more than just about the numbers. He said, “That game was one where I found a great rhythm, and everything was going in. I have to thank my teammates for getting me the ball in the right spots.”

He added, “It meant a lot for Rwanda. We showed that we can play at a high level. It gave our fans hope that we can make an impact in this tournament.”

This moment set the stage for a season in which APR BBC could get closer to the number one spot, building on last year’s progress and proving that Rwanda can compete at the top level.

A Season Built for One Goal

Coming into the new season, APR BBC appeared to be a team with unfinished business. Fresh off a Rwandan league title, the organisation made significant signings, moves that pointed clearly toward one ambition: to win the Basketball Africa League and bring the trophy home to Kigali. But just weeks before that vision could materialise, everything changed. APR BBC withdrew from the competition.

Axel Mpoyo BAL Season 5 2025 — **Axel Mpoyo delivered a shooting exhibition in last year’s BAL third-place game. Pictures: The BTO**

In its place came the RSSB Tigers; a new identity, but with familiar faces. Head coach James Maye transitioned into the Tigers’ setup, alongside a core of APR players, including Mpoyo. The sudden shift raised questions. About continuity. About preparation. And disrupted momentum. For Mpoyo, the experience was as abrupt as it was challenging. “It wasn’t easy, it caught me off guard, but it was out of our control,” said Mpoyo. Yet, within that uncertainty, there was clarity.

“In this sport and in life, things happen. You’ve got to be ready to adjust and stay ready,” he intimated.

Representing Rwanda

When the opportunity arose to remain in the Basketball Africa League through the RSSB Tigers, the decision for Axel Mpoyo and several of his former teammates was rooted in something deeper than circumstance.

“First and foremost, representing Rwanda was a big part of our decision, and getting the chance to play in the BAL… We don’t take that for granted.”

It speaks to a broader sense of purpose, one that extends beyond club allegiances. For APR’s core, this served as a way for Rwanda to preserve continuity, identity and ambition, which is crucial as the BAL continues to grow exponentially and pivots towards establishing franchises.

“This league is going to be one of the best in the world.” And Rwanda is intent on growing with it.

Shared Foundations, Aligned Vision

Despite the team change, much of APR’s influence remains embedded within the Tigers. The carryover is not just in personnel, but in mindset. “We just bring that championship mentality, that intensity, that togetherness,” said Mpoyo.

That foundation, built through APR’s run to a podium finish last season, has helped accelerate RSSB’s adjustment to the BAL stage. It has also shaped how the group approaches pressure, preparation, and expectations.

Equally important has been the blend of leadership on the sidelines. Former APR head coach James Maye has joined forces with RSSB’s Henry Mwinuka, creating a dual-coaching dynamic that has, so far, delivered balance rather than friction.

“They complement each other well; they both understand the game at a high level and can relate to players,” he says. It’s a partnership that mirrors the team itself, with different backgrounds and a shared vision.

Axel Mpoyo at the BAL 2026 Season 6 — **Axel Mpoyo has given the Tigers quality minutes coming off the bench.**

Chemistry Under Pressure Silencing Doubt

Perhaps the most impressive aspect of the RSSB Tigers’ start is how they quickly fused and find themselves 2-0 in the Kalahari Conference. With limited preparation time, their cohesion has had less to do with structure and focused more on shared understanding. “The chemistry is growing every day. We didn’t have a lot of time, but we’re all on the same page,” said Mpoyo.

In a short time, the team has established an identity rooted in trust, resilience, and accountability. “We’ve got each other’s backs, there’s no pressure. We’re going to make mistakes, but we pick each other up.”

That internal clarity has created freedom on the court and an environment where players are encouraged to play instinctively and without hesitation.

“When everybody can be themselves and play freely, it helps the team go further.”

And that freedom has translated directly into performance, which was evident in the statement win over Petro de Luanda, where the Tigers battled until the final moments to secure an 82–78 victory, an indicator of both their resilience and collective belief. If there were any lingering doubts about Rwanda’s presence in Season 6, RSSB’s opening games have answered them emphatically with two wins, built on cohesion and collective execution, from a team that looks far more settled than its circumstances would suggest.

Adaptability as Identity

For Mpoyo, the approach to the season is measured, his goals simple and grounded. “I’m just taking it game by game and trying to be as consistent as I can,” he said. “Everybody has the same goal: to keep the trophy in Kigali.”

It’s a goal tied to something bigger than basketball, a sense of pride that runs deeper than the court. “It’s been a blessing to represent Rwanda, and I don’t take it for granted.” Those early performances have only reinforced the belief within the group. “It felt really good and showed us what we can do if we play together,” reflected Mpoyo. “It gave us confidence. We know we have a lot more work to do, but we have the potential to make a run.”

Through the highs of last season and the uncertainty of this one, Mpoyo has discovered something fundamental, not just about the game, but about himself: “I’ve learned that I can adjust to multiple situations.”

In a tournament defined by change, that adaptability has become both his and the team’s defining identity.

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Al Ahly LY give themselves a lifeline

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THE Libyan champions, Al Ahly Benghazi, endured a nightmare start to their Basketball Africa League season campaign, dropping their first two games in the Kalahari Conference and raising early concerns about an early exit from the tournament.

However, a dominant performance in their third game of the Kalahari Conference has reignited their playoff hopes and reminded everyone that their pedigree remains very much intact.

For a team that arrived in South Africa as one of the favourites, with former MVPs Jean Jacques Boissy (2025) and Jo-Lual Acuil (2024) as defensive anchors, and a perfect Road to BAL qualifying record, Al Ahly’s first two games of the BAL season felt like identity theft.

First, they conceded 103 points to RSSB Tigers on opening night. Then came another collapse against Petro de Luanda, where they lost 104-90, leaving them at 0–2 and staring at elimination.

Their 118-9 win against Dar City on Tuesday night changed their fortunes.

Six Players in Double Figures

Six players scored in double figures. Led by Damion Baugh, who finished with 18 assists, a new BAL single-game record, along with 16 points.

Walid Soliman at BAL season 6 2026 — **Ahmed Soliman will have been relieved with his team’s first win of the Kalahari Conference. Pictures: The BTO and Getty**

South Sudan’s Acuil had a dominant double-double in the paint, alongside compatriot Majok Deng, who delivered an efficient 22-point performance. Donovan Williams added perimeter firepower, while Jean Jacques Boissy, the reigning MVP, embraced the sixth-man role with 18 points in just 19 minutes.

Currently, five players are averaging double digits.

What Changed in Game 3?

In the first two games, Al Ahly Ly relied heavily on Baugh as a scorer. Against Dar City, he transitioned into a facilitator role, allowing the offence to circulate through his playmaking. They recorded 28 assists in total, an improvement from their previous outings, where they had 24 in the first game and 14 in the second.

Bench production jumped from 21 points against RSSB Tigers to 32 against Dar City. Turnovers also decreased significantly from 10 in the opening fixture and 17 in the following fixture to just seven on Tuesday.

Another key difference was bench scoring: They recorded 32 points off the bench, compared to Dar City’s 18. Speaking to the media after the game, head coach Ahmed Soliman emphasised the adjustments made following their slow start.

“After the first two games, we sat down and focused on our weaknesses,” he said. “Offensively, we needed more teamwork and chemistry, and I think we showed that today.”

He also highlighted the defensive effort, particularly against Dar City’s key threat. “I liked the defence as well. Mohamed Sadi and Boissy did a great job on number six (David Michineau).”

For Soliman, the performance reflected the kind of balance his team is capable of. “When you have players who can contribute both offensively and defensively, it’s great for us.”

They seem to have found the formula; now they have to trust it. They must sustain this offensive balance rather than reverting to isolation basketball when pressure mounts.

Feeding their big men is key, as Acuil and Deng combined for 42 points on 17/28 shooting. And Boissy must build on his rediscovered confidence; the MVP cannot afford another 5-point outing as he did against the Tigers if this team truly aspires to lift the trophy in Kigali.

Jean Jacques Boissy at BAL Season 6 March 2026 — **Jean Jacques Boissy blitzed to an 18-point performance on Tuesday night.**

Playoff Hopes

The win moves Al Ahly Ly to 1–2 in the Kalahari Conference standings, still precarious but breathing. With four teams advancing to Kigali from each conference, the path back to the playoffs, once appearing treacherous, now seems navigable.

Yet the margin for error remains slim. At 1-2, they are tied with Dar City and trail the conference leaders, meaning every remaining game carries playoff implications.

To secure one of those four precious spots in Kigali, Al Ahly must treat their remaining conference games as elimination contests, building on the offensive chemistry and defensive intensity that finally surfaced in Game 3.

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Can Giants dig themselves out of 0-2 hole?

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THE Johannesburg Giants have endured a difficult start to their Basketball Africa League Season 6 campaign, going winless in the Kalahari Conference. However, they still have a chance to reach the playoffs in Kigali this May – though that opportunity is quickly slipping away.

Knowing that their backs are against the wall after their 71–65 defeat to Nairobi City Thunder (NCT) on Sunday, coach Florsheim Ngwenya will be figuring out how to dig his Giants out of a 0-2 hole.

Unlike their 100–70 loss at the hands of Dar City in their opener, this was a game the Giants were firmly in. They matched NCT possession-for-possession, fought through momentum swings, and gave themselves a genuine chance deep into the fourth quarter.

But in any basketball game, being close isn’t enough.

Giants struggled against sharpshooters

In the loss to DarCity last Friday, the Giants could not contain Côte D’Ivoire shooting guard Nisre Zouzoua, who scored 35 points, 24 of them from the three-point line.

Their defensive woes against shooters continued a few days later. City Thunder’s South Sudanese forward Garang Diing also had a field day from the arc against the Giants. Diing caught fire in the fourth quarter, pouring in 12 of his game-high 24 points, which guided the Thunder to victory.

Nino Dim during the BAL 2026 sEASON 6 — **Nino Dim and his teammates know they have to get their act together. Pictures: The BTO**

While the Giants can take credit for the defensive intensity and improved offensive execution that fuelled their comeback, their inability to deliver in the clutch once again proved costly. The late-game struggles – so often the difference in tight contests – left the Johannesburg side winless and anchored in sixth place

Head coach Ngwenya acknowledged the improvement from the opening game but pointed to key details that ultimately cost his side.

“We showed more fight than in the first game, but it came down to a couple of mistakes,” Ngwenya said. “I thought we prepared well on both defence and offence, but one of the things that disrupted our rhythm was their offensive rebounding. They finished with 15, and that made a big difference.”

However, Giants centre Nkosinathi Sibanyoni delivered a commanding performance on the boards, finishing with 17 total rebounds in a strong individual effort despite the result. Ngwenya admitted the team now faces a shift in approach as they fight to stay alive in the competition.

“The script changes completely now from what we initially planned. We have to go back, reassess, identify weaknesses in the other teams, and prepare properly for the last three games.”

The former Cape Town Tigers coach also highlighted the experience gap between his side and more established opponents.

“We are battle-tested in our own way, but some of these teams come from more consistent leagues. For us, this is the first time playing together at this level in a competition like this,” said Ngwenya. “I believe with every game, we are making progress.”

Florsheim Ngwenya BAL 2026 media day — **Coach Florsheim Ngwenya will have to use every trick in the book to revive the Giants’ BAL campaign.**

What This Means

With the tournament now entering its decisive phase, the Giants find themselves in a precarious position that threatens to derail their historic BAL debut before it can truly take shape.

At 0-2 and at the bottom of the six-team standings, the South African champions have exhausted their margin for error at an alarming pace – each remaining fixture is now effectively a must-win, with a single defeat enough to end their playoff hopes.

With only three group-stage games remaining and the leading teams beginning to separate themselves, Ngwenya faces the urgent task of restoring the defensive discipline and offensive cohesion that powered their qualification campaign.

Failure to do so could see the Giants’ continental journey end prematurely. For a club that has invested heavily in a professional structure and stepped onto the continental stage within a year of formation, an early exit would represent a significant setback to their broader ambitions.

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Lights, camera… It’s Dim time

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NINO Dim had to rewind his mind to a decade ago when asked if he knew he would one day pursue a basketball career. He remembers asking a former University of Johannesburg teammate if it was possible for them to become pros one day, and understandably, his friend laughed the idea off.

The reason Dim’s friend may have found the question preposterous is that the poor governance of basketball in South Africa has left many despondent. Many who have made a career out of basketball are the exception, not the norm.

Fast forward to the present, Dim, playing in his second BAL tournament, explained that he worked hard and his unwavering determination has got him to this point.

He is enjoying playing in front of thousands of fans at the Sunbet Arena in Pretoria for his club, Johannesburg Giants.

“I really can’t describe it. Playing in front of your home crowd and your family being able to come and watch you is a luxury,” said Dim, who had an interview with The Big Tip Off on Saturday at the arena. “I don’t think I am taking it lightly, and neither are the other guys. It’s a really good feeling. More than anything, I am excited, and the hope is that it happens more often than not.”

Dim, who scored 13 points in a 100-70 loss to Tanzania’s DarCity, says stepping on the court on Friday night was a moment of relief.

“I mean, finally! Those are the words which came to mind. I have been working for this for a really long time. It’s work that I have been doing for over 10 years that has now come to fruition,” said Dim.

Nino Dim BAL Season 6 2026 — **Nino Dim has held on to his dream of being a pro basketball player. Pictures: The BTO**

He then reflected on the conversation with his friend from university. “Ten years ago, I was probably walking to church with my good friend Zet Mutingoza. I remember asking: ‘Zet, do you think we can go pro?’ He looked at me, laughed at me, and said ‘Hey man, I don’t know about that’,” reflected Dim.

Dim, who made his name playing for the University of Johannesburg and leading South Africa at the 2023 FISU World Student Games and the 2024 CUCSA Games, ploughed on and having someone believe in his ability was a sign that he was on the right track.

“In my head, I believed already. I just needed that extra push. That extra motivation from somebody that I looked up to, to just let me know ‘yo it can happen’,” said Dim. “I was just training and working out blindly… And by God’s grace, BAL happened, and we are here today.”

So, who is the person who encouraged Dim all these years to continue on his present path?

“The one person that I can speak about who impacted me in terms of that is Coach Mandla Ngema of UJ Basketball. He instilled a different type of mentality in me from the jump. I think he had a lot of expectations of me as a rookie coming in. He had a lot of expectations when I became a senior,” said Dim. “Him putting that amount of pressure on you… Pushing you physically and mentally continuously made me believe I am doing this for a reason.

“I believe I can somehow make it out of South Africa and go play professional basketball elsewhere.”

While he chases his basketball dreams, Dim made sure not to forget the man who pushed him towards his goal. He gave Ngema a token of appreciation when he made his first BAL tournament last year as an MBB player.

“Coach Mandla is a man of very few words. He is a man of action. The first season, when I got my jersey, I went back to UJ to give it to him as a way of saying thank you, coach,” said Dim. “He would come after practice to do some extra work with me. He put up shots with me. He helped fix my jumper. He is not a man of many words. He congratulated me and told me he is proud of me… Also anytime I need the UJ gym it’s available to me. I think that was him co-signing and telling me put in all the work I need to achieve greatness.”

Looking back at his first BAL season, Dim, who played in only three games in his continental club championship debut, says he gained perspective from seeing how the veterans and other professionals at his former club, MBB, put in work to stay in good condition or to remain at the top of their game.

“As much as I didn’t play, watching guys like Lebesa (Selepe), Neo Mothiba, Omar Thielemans, and Teafal Lenard Jr., confirmed the level of intensity and consistency you need to be effective on the court, and that’s something I took into consideration,” said Dim. “I had to work that into my programs so that I could become a better player, for me and whatever team I would play for next.”

He is now running with the Giants, who are less than a year old, but they have taken big steps in the game. They dominated in the Road to BAL, gaining automatic qualification after beating DarCity in the semi-final of the Elite 16.

Dim delivered an impressive Road to BAL campaign, averaging 13.3 points, 8 rebounds, and 3.3 assists, which contributed to the Giants’ BAL qualification.

Nino Dim in action at the BAL 2026 Season 6 — **Nino Dim had a good showing against DarCity despite the loss.**

While he had an outstanding continental qualification tournament, he says the team had to find common ground in a short space of time.

“From going to club champs not knowing each other to forming a brotherhood with guys like Josh (Ozabor), Aviwe (Mahlong), Pieter Prinsloo and Nathi Sibanyoni. Those are guys we went to war with a bunch of times, from Cape Town, to Zambia, to Kenya and now BAL season 6,” said Dim. “It has been a privilege. It’s just surreal. We knew this was the ultimate goal. We knew we wanted to go further, but coming here and taking it all in is something special.

“It’s exciting to be at BAL season six. I want to see what we will do next.”

Dim and the Giants have to move on from Friday night’s loss and focus on another reunion with an East African club, Nairobi City Thunder, who beat the Joburg club in the group stage and the Elite 16 final last year.

Before speaking on the game against the Thunder on Sunday, Dim touched on the loss to DarCity.

“Of course, we obviously wanted a win. The 30-point loss is something we are not proud of, and we don’t want to lose by that margin again,” said Dim. In terms of my production… I did what I could. I missed a bunch of shots I could have made. I had good looks. We have to do better.

“We have to put our best foot forward against NCT, which is our next game on Sunday. We have got to put our heads down and keep working.”

Nino Dim at BAL Season 6 2026 — **Nino Dim is ready to grab his opportunity.**

Dim has shown a glimpse of what he can do at this stage. He, however, feels his capabilities are not fully appreciated, and he wants to prove that he fully belongs on this stage.

“People have seen me perform in South Africa, but at this stage, I have not yet been considered. I have been pushed to the wayside quite a bit. So one has to be a bit tenacious and persistent… Understanding that my time will come, and I have to be ready for that moment,” said Dim. “I am patient, but I am hungry too. That is what I have understood about myself. When the time comes to be productive, I am going to do just that.”

Getting the Giants back on a winning track will be a good start, and with two more games remaining after the clash against the Thunder, Dim knows he cannot afford to miss a step for the remainder of this Kalahari Conference.

Lights, camera… It’s Dim time Read More »

The evolution of floor general Dundão

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OVER the past two years, you cannot speak about Angolan basketball without mentioning Childe Dundão. During this period, he has become a key figure in the sport, essential to the country’s ongoing success and competitiveness. His leadership and consistent contributions were felt at every level of the game.

At the club level, Dundão has been integral to Petro de Luanda’s achievements in the Basketball Africa League (BAL). His influence was particularly evident during the club’s championship-winning campaign in 2024. His composure, defensive intensity, and game management were crucial throughout the tournament. As the BAL elevates its competitiveness, the focus shifts to whether Dundão can once again lead Petro to the pinnacle of success.

His Development into an Elite Point Guard

Dundão’s career trajectory has been anything but straightforward, highlighting the importance of the current season. Between 2021 and 2024, he established himself as a high-impact two-way guard for Petro, averaging 10-11 points per game. While in the 2021–22 and 2022–23 seasons, he showcased his most effective form, characterised by active defence, confident scoring, and effective management of the team’s offensive flow.

However, the latest season presents a contrast. A decrease in scoring efficiency coincided with an increase in assists, suggesting that Dundão adjusted his role rather than experiencing a decline in effectiveness. Rather than focusing on scoring, he embraced the importance of facilitating for his teammates. In a deep roster such as Petro’s, this shift is a necessity.

Childe Dundao in action at the 2025 BAL — **Childe Dundao has transformed his game over the years. Pictures: The BTO**

Even within a strong team, Dundao plays a crucial connecting role. While Petro can distribute scoring across multiple players, his unique ability to organise the offence, disrupt opponents on defence, and control the tempo is difficult to replace. His impact may not always appear in the box score, but it is essential to the team’s function.

Growth Amidst Instability

Throughout the past three seasons, Dundao’s fluctuating role, from starter to bench player and back again, has likely affected his rhythm. Consistency is crucial for a point guard, as it influences decision-making, confidence, and overall team leadership. This instability can explain why his offensive progression has not followed a steady upward trajectory.

Nevertheless, this variation may also have expanded his skill set. During his time with Angola’s national basketball team, Dundao has embraced a more prominent role.

His performances at AfroBasket and in the World Cup qualifiers highlighted his growing willingness to take on greater responsibility. He emerged as a more assertive scorer, a decisive playmaker, and a player capable of maintaining confidence under offensive pressure.

International Leadership

Dundao played a critical role in guiding Angola to its 12th AfroBasket title, showcasing composed performances against all competitors. His contributions earned him the MVP award, solidifying his status as one of Africa’s premier guards. This strong performance continued during the recent FIBA World Cup 2027 qualifiers at the end of February, where he demonstrated leadership, composure, and versatility.

The difference in his roles is noteworthy. At Petro, he often adapts to a structured system, while with the national team, he is expected to be the core of that system. This duality, functioning as a facilitator at the club level and a primary driver at the international level, has enhanced his basketball IQ and leadership capabilities.

A Decade of Dundao

Dundao’s story is one of longevity and growing within the structures. He first represented the Angolan national team in 2016 at the FIBA U18 AfroBasket, contributing to the team’s run to the championship. Many of his teammates from that tournament now play at the senior level, strengthening Angola’s teamwork and competitive edge. Over a decade, Dundao has evolved from a promising youth player into a seasoned floor general, with an influence that extends well beyond statistical contributions.

Childe Dundao at the 2027 World Cup Qualifiers — **Childe Dundao is a key player for the Angola national team.**

Significance of the Current BAL Season

This season marks a pivotal moment for Dundao, as his dual roles are expected to merge. He enters the BAL equipped with three significant advantages:

Continuous high-level play through the Angolan league
Momentum from national team duty, where he has accepted greater responsibilities
Experience across various roles, enhancing his adaptability and leadership skills

While Dundao may not need to be the leading scorer, he is a reliable decision-maker on the court. If he can bring the assertiveness demonstrated with the national team – striking a balance between aggression and playmaking – he can transform Petro into a cohesive unit capable of winning a championship. This convergence makes this season particularly significant for Dundao and Petro de Luanda.

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