Basketball Africa League - The Big Tip Off

Lights, camera… It’s Dim time

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.

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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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Giants vs DarCity: A battle of tacticians

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FRIDAY marks the beginning of the BAL the return of the Kalahari Conference to South Africa. The Big Tip Off editor Manyehlisa Lehohla looks at the match of the day featuring host club Johannesburg Giants and Tanzania’s DarCity. This intriguing battle sees a reunion between the two teams, led by successful coaches and brilliant strategists.

Joahnnesburg Giants

The Giants, as a club, are new to the BAL scene, but they have individuals familiar with the rough and tough of the six-year-old tournament. The experienced Florsheim Ngwenya led the now-defunct Cape Town Tigers to a historic run, which began at the Kalahari Conference in South Africa (in 2024) and ended at the semi-finals in Rwanda.

After successfully helping the Giants navigate the Road to BAL last year, can he work his magic again this year? There is no doubt that as Ngwenya readies the Giants for this year’s competition, a bit of 2024’s nostalgia will play in his mind.

The Giants’ journey begins with a familiar adversary – DarCity, a club Ngwenya’s charges overcame in the Road to BAL semi-final, to book their automatic spot in the BAL. Apart from his exploits with the Tigers, Ngwenya has an extensive resume, which includes coaching the South African national team at two AfroBaskets (2011 and 2009).

Florsheim Ngwenya Tigers Coach Road to BAL 2026 — **Coach Florsheim Ngwenya and the Giants will count on home support. Pictures: FIBA Africa**

His record on the domestic scene also makes for good reading, having won two national club championships, first with the Tigers and last year as the Giants head coach. As a coach in the BNL, he won multiple titles with Egoli Magic (2021, 2019, 2016 and 2015) and one with the Tigers (2023).

Ngwenya’s teams play good defence and do so with effort. One player who demonstrated defensive aptitude is power forward and the BAL All-Time rebounds leader, Nkosinathi Sibanyoni, with his timely block on Youssoupha Ndoye with seconds left in a Road to BAL semi-final clash.

Looking ahead to the opening game on Friday (vs DarCity), which will be the Giants’ BAL debut, he had the following to say: “Each day with the Giants preparing them is a blessing and a privilege, it’s a club that is dear to my heart. Hard-working bunch of guys.

Having faced off against DarCity in the Road to BAL, Ngwenya felt they were a team that never gives up.

“Dar City is a good team. What I learned about them is that they will play hard and don’t quit,” said Ngwenya “It’s important to have a good start, simply because we will build confidence moving forward in the competition.”

DarCity

The Dar es Salaam-based club are the pride of Tanzania as the first club from that country to qualify for the BAL. They, too, are led by an experienced coach, Pabi Gueye, who has won titles in his homeland, Senegal, and masterminded AS Douanes’ trip to the BAL final in 2023.

That same year, he earned the competition’s Coach of the Year title for guiding AS Douanes to a major milestone. Since that final, Gueye made one more appearance at the BAL, which eluded him last year as he failed to qualify for the tournament with a star-laden Urunani team from Burundi. The move to DarCity has helped reopen the door to the BAL for Gueye, and he will work hard to ensure that his club gives a strong showing in their tournament debut.

Gueye has an impressive record as a former player and now coach. During his playing days he won four Senegal NM1 trophies (2011, 2008, 2005 and 1998) and two Senegal Cup titles. His career too him to Morocco where he won a league (2008) and cup titles (2006).

He is just as decorated as a coach. Gueye won seven domestic championships (2023, 2022, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016 and 2014) and to with the league trophy collection he has won six cup titles (2024, 2021, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016 and 2014).

Pabi Gueye 2026 Road to BAL — **Coach Pabi Gueye made his mark as coach during the 2023 BAL tournament.**

Gueye is a defensive-minded coach, and a player like Atiki Ally Atiki will fit whatever defensive scheme he draws up as he offers solid rim protection and rebounding. As he prepares for the DarCity for the opener against the Giants, Gueye said the following:

“Dar City’s preparation for its first participation in the BAL is generally going well. The managers did their part to put us in very good conditions to prepare for this competition, and that is very important for a project like ours,” said Gueye.

He also reflected that neither team is a closed book to the other. “Our last match against them was an eye-opener, on both ends of the pitch. We started the match very well, but we did not manage our emotions in the difficult moments. It’s a team that we know well, but they also know us,” said Gueye.

The Giants will have the backing of the home crowd, egging them on, while DarCity will look to spoil the party.

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Petro de Luanda: A model of consistency in the BAL

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SEASON 6 of the BAL tips off with the Kalahari Conference in Pretoria, South Africa. The Big Tip Off’s new writer, Sandisiwe Msibi, analyses the tournament’s ever-present club, Petro de Luanda.

Angola’s Culture of Dominance: Petro de Luanda Sets the Standard

For decades, excellence has defined Angolan basketball. Their clubs have consistently placed the Southern African nation on the map. Today, at the centre of that tradition is Petro de Luanda, a model of consistency in the BAL. Since the league’s inception in 2021, Petro has always finished in the top four.

They won the title in 2024. They were runners-up in 2022 and 2025. In addition, they finished third in 2021 and fourth in 2023. Beyond the BAL, Os Petroleos have also enjoyed continental success. They won the FIBA Africa Club Champions Cup in 2006 and 2015, adding to Angola’s rich legacy in the competition.

Therefore, Petro’s repeated deep runs are no coincidence. Instead, they reflect a system built for sustained success.

The anatomy of consistency

What separates Petro from the BAL’s rotating cast of contenders? The statistics tell part of the story. Through five seasons, Petro has compiled a 27-13 record across 40 games, the league’s best winning percentage among teams with multiple appearances. Locally, Petro’s stranglehold on the Angolan league, with six consecutive titles from 2019 to 2025, has ensured annual BAL qualification.

Yannick Moreira of Petro de Luanda — **Yannick Moreira brings veteran experience to Petro’s lineup. Picture: The BTO**

Four players that define an Era

However, Petro’s success is not just about trophies. It is also about the players who shape the team’s identity. Together, Childe Dundão, Aboubacar Gakou, Gerson Gonçalves and Yanick Moreira provide balance and continuity.

Childe Dundão

At 5ft6, Dundão is the team’s engine. He is also arguably the most impactful undersized player in BAL history. His 2025 season highlights his influence. He helped Petro reach the BAL final. Then, three months later, he won AfroBasket and earned MVP honours.

Moreover, his defensive intensity stands out. He has four All-Defensive Team selections in five seasons. At the same time, he led the Angolan league in assists for three straight years.

Aboubacar Gakou

Similarly, Gakou brings efficiency and versatility. In 2025, he earned All-BAL First Team honours and was named an MVP finalist. During the 2024 title run, he averaged 8.4 points and 5.8 rebounds in just 22.7 minutes. These numbers underscore his impact despite low usage.

Furthermore, as a three-time Angolan League MVP, he represents the modern big man. He is mobile, physical, and disciplined. As a result, he gives Petro defensive flexibility without sacrificing interior strength.

Gerson Lukeny

Every championship team needs a player who can deliver when the moment demands it – for Petro, that role often belongs to Gonçalves. He played a pivotal role in Petro’s 2024 BAL title run, scoring 16 points in the championship game against Al Ahly Libya. Known for his scoring ability, Gonçalves also holds Petro’s club record for the most points in a BAL playoff game with 28.

Yanick Moreira

At 34, Yanick Moreira represents the veteran presence every championship team needs. The 6 ft 10 centre took over as captain in 2025 and provides the defensive backbone that allows Petro’s guards to play aggressively.

Aboubakar Gakou at the 2025 BAL playoffs — **Aboubakar Gakou can stretch the floor for Petro.**

The 2025 Reckoning: Can Petro Reclaim the Crown?

As Petro prepares for BAL Season 6, which begins with the Kalahari Conference in Pretoria, South Africa (March 27 – April 5), the path back to the championship presents new challenges. They will face stiff competition from the hosts, the Johannesburg Giants, 2024 finalists Al Ahly Libya, DarCity, RSSB Tigers,

Roster changes

The Angolan club has undergone significant roster changes for the upcoming BAL season. Syrian-American point guard Javion Blake and South Sudanese guard Peter Jok have since joined the club, who represented South Sudan at the 2024 Paris Olympics and the FIBA Basketball World Cup.

Petro de Luanda enters BAL Season 6 not as favourites, but as the league’s standard-bearers. However, if history is a guide, Petro will be there at the end, either lifting the trophy or setting the benchmark that others must try to surpass.

In African basketball, consistency is the ultimate currency. And as a result, no team has accumulated more of it than the Os Petroleos from Luanda.

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Ibs and Thunder look to hit the right notes in KBL and BAL

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NAIROBI City Thunder have become domestic titans since the Twende ownership group took over the club. For the last two years, they have dominated the Kenyan basketball scene, and did so in spectacular fashion. One unbeaten season after another is shaping this ball club into a dynasty. The man who has crafted the Thunder’s invincibility on the court is Bradley Ibs.

With another season coming up, there will be new pressure. There will probably be talk of a dynasty and possibly maintaining the aura of invincibility. It’s something Ibs dismisses from his train of thought, and it has not crept into the team’s psyche.

“I think it’s something that gets discussed more outside our locker room than internally. I know that as a coaching staff, we spend zero time talking about it,” said Ibs. “It certainly doesn’t mean we don’t want to win. We are extremely competitive. I think our way of operation is ‘what can we do today, what can we do this week to get a little bit better?'”

Ibs continued: “We like to trust the fact that we have talented players in our locker room. I think if we stay on the cutting edge of improvement and keep the team motivated, then we can trust the results.”

Brad Ibs Road to BAL 2026 — **Brad Ibs and the Thunder want to redeem themselves in BAL Season 6. Pictures: FIBA**

While the Thunder ran rampant in the league again last year, Ibs says there were some nervous moments. “We had some scares last year… Some close games, I think one or two games might have gone into overtime,” said Ibs. “If we go undefeated again this season, then it will be great. I think ultimately we want to improve playing our best basketball until the end of the season and taking Nairobi City Thunder to another national championship.”

Ibs and the Thunder are also making a return to the BAL, after triumphing yet again at home at the Elite 16 stage of the continental qualifiers.

Having finished last year’s BAL Season 5 with a 1-5 record in the Nile Conference, Ibs will hope for a turnaround fortune this year.

He spoke about the lessons he learnt from their debut tournament and where he hopes the Thunder will finish this year.

“I think one of the lessons I learnt from the BAL last year is the importance of proper roster construction. There is a real sensitive balance when you build a roster for these types of tournaments,” said Ibs. “You need to maintain the core of who you are as much as you can, and also, there is a need for the high-level temporary players. Those are the plugin players because the time level is short to prepare them and get them on the same page.”

He finally spoke on the goal for this year’s BAL, and he intimated that going beyond the group stage would be a starting point.

“I think at a baseline level, we definitely want to make it out of conference play this year. We are also really hopeful that we will compete at a high level once we get into the final round in Rwanda,” said Ibs. “It was unfortunate how we played and how we represented ourselves last year. I don’t know how many teams in their first year of existence make it to the BAL… Win a game in the BAL. There were a lot of difficult lessons to learn, and I think we have learnt them.

“We look forward making some changes based on that knowledge that we got.”

Ibs and Thunder are in their preseason, and so far, they have hit the right notes with wins over a South Sudan select team and the army club, Ulinzi. With the rigours of domestic and international competition set to begin, Ibs will hope his band of Thunder players stay in tune and don’t miss a beat.

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Bravehearts duo benefit from club’s scholarship program

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SPORTS in Africa are seldom seen as a pathway to opening doors to education. However, one of the clubs working to change the narrative is Malawi’s Bravehearts Basketball Club, which operates through their scholarship program. Two hoopers who have experienced the impact of the program are Mtendere Manyozo and Hope Chimwaza.

Identified for their basketball talent and academic excellence, interestingly, the basketball bug bit late in their lives. Before switching to basketball, Manyozo was a netball player, while Chimwaza played football.

Chimwaza is a first-year university student who harbours dreams of graduating to the Brave Hearts senior team, picked basketball as a 15-year-old, and when the world was going through the most.

“I was a football player because of my dad. Before I discovered I could play basketball, I loved football. I started playing basketball at the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Chimwaza. “I have grown to love it, and it has made me more focused.

Mtendere Manyozo 2025 BIBC — **Mtendere Manyozo believes Bravehearts is ready to venture into continental basketball. Pictures: Supplied**

Originally from Blantyre, Chimwaza joined Brave Hearts in 2022, while still a high school pupil. He says changing from football to basketball was not an easy leap.

“It was hard changing sports. I think the levels of physicality were different. That was the biggest change for me,” said Chimwaza.

Manyozo, in her final year of Business Administration, explained that she started the game late in life. “I used to be a netball player. I got into basketball once I started college, I was 19 at the time. That was in 2020. After a year, I joined the Brave Hearts program,” said Manyozo, the Bravehearts women’s team captain. “It was a hard change, now it has become a part of my lifestyle.”

Both players spoke in the same vein that the scholarship program has lifted the financial burden on their families.

“Basketball has been a blessing in my life. Bravehearts has paid for my schooling since form four, and they are still doing it now, which is a good thing for me and especially my parents,” said Chimwaza. “They handle other things, such as paying school fees for my siblings.”

On the court, Manyozo has won multiple domestic championships with Brave Hearts, and while she enjoys putting the team on the map, she has also appreciated the relationships she’s built.

“It’s been great contributing to the team’s success. It’s been an important part of my life and career,” said Manyozo. “It has given me a chance to know people. To form friendships here at home and outside. Another thing is that the club is ambitious, and it has brought players from outside the country to build on its success. It’s been great for me to be part of this process.

Chimwaza, on the other hand, has dreams of being part of the successful men’s senior team and aspires to compete in international competitions.

“I want to move up to the men’s team. I am working hard to make that dream come true. Every time I get an opportunity to be around them, it motivates me,” said Chimwaza. “Our senior team gets a lot of exposure because they travel. I would really help the team get to the Basketball Africa League.

“Last year they made it to the Elite 16. I would like to see them go further this year.”

Hope Chimweza 2025 BIBC — **Hope Chimweza says basketball has given him more focus.**

Manyozo also looks forward to the potential for her and her teammates to play in continental competition. “As a team, we would be happy to get an opportunity to play in bigger competitions. We have won almost everything in Malawi,” said Manyozo.

The duo of Manyozo and Chimwaza are entering different points of their playing careers, but their objectives remain the same. To continue putting Bravehearts on the map.

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Marathon journey ends with first BAL title for Al Ahli Tripoli

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AL AHLI Tripoli’s epic journey in the BAL culminated in them winning Season 5 of the continental competition. The Libyan club, led from the Road to BAL to the promised land by the always lively and cheerful Lebanese coach, Fouad Abou Chacra, put in assured performances throughout the tournament. Making them deserving winners of their maiden BAL trophy.

Their story of becoming the last team standing at the mountain top in African club basketball looked like a seamless marathon. An unbeaten run in the preliminary phase at home in Tripoli and the Elite 16 in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, last year in the Road to BAL, ended in Al Ahli becoming the second side from its country to qualify for the BAL.

At the BAL, they dominated the Nile Conference in Rwanda and headed to South Africa for the playoffs with a 6-0 record. In the playoffs’ seeding games, they had a come-down-to-earth moment against an equally dominant Egyptian side, Al Ittihad, which came to South Africa with a similar record from the Kalahari Conference in Morocco. Fortunately, for Al Ahli, the momentary blip reinvigorated them, as they took down Kriol Star and APR to secure a place in the grand finalè, becoming the second Road to BAL side to do so. The Tripoli side travelled a similar road to compatriots Al Ahli Benghazi, but the former would go a step further.

Al Ahli Tripoli the BAL champions — **Al Ahli Tripoli players celebrate winning their first BAL title after beating defending champion Petro de Luanda. Pictures: The BAL**

With hoop gods smiling on them, the side from the Libyan capital, Tripoli, masterfully took apart defending champions Petro, 88-67 in front of a capacity crowd at the Sunbet Arena in South Africa’s capital, Tshwane.

Egyptian giant Assem Marei, who was used sparingly by this year’s BAL Coach of the Season Abou Chacra during the tournament, could not be contained by Petro as he finished with finesse in the paint and tipped back loose balls on his way to a double-double (22 points and 19 rebounds).

Marei played the entire 40 minutes in the final, and he says he was grateful for Abou Chacra resting him in the seeding game. He felt sitting out that game against Al Ittihad did him and Al Ahli Tripoli a world of good.

“Coach has been generous with me. I told him I was tired from the travelling. I had to travel to a lot of countries to try and get a visa to come here,” said Marei. “He agreed and generously let me rest for the first game. It was a turning point for me. So I was grateful for that rest.”

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Marei, a recent winner of the South Korean Basketball League, also reflected on his first trophy win on African soil.

“First of all, Allahhamdulilla (Thank God). It’s amazing to win two championships. Of course, this one is for Libya. It means a great deal to the people of that country, the players and the organisation,” said the Egyptian international. “It’s amazing. I’m so grateful. It is my first African championship and it means a lot to me.”

At the post-final press conference, winning captain Mohamed Sadi, who played in the inaugural BAL with AS Douanes, says the victory was a culmination of all the hard work they put in.

“This is not easy. We had like 15 games and lost one. We had tough games, but we worked hard. The team has great players and a great coach. The team stuck together to achieve the goal. Allahhamdulilla for everything. Now we go back home with the trophy,” said Sadi, who had 11 points and eight rebounds in the final. “We made history for our country and made people happy. Basketball changed in Libya, and now all of Africa sees it.”

Jean-Jacques Boissy, a finalist in the 2023 competition, did not just walk away with the winner’s trophy on Saturday night; he was crowned tournament MVP for his sterling performances. His shot-making accuracy from behind the arc was something to marvel at throughout this season of the BAL.

Al Ahli Tripoli win BAL trophy — **Mahomed Sadi and his Al Ahli Tripoli teammates dance the night away after winning the BAL trophy.**

During the post-game press conference, the Senegalese point guard, who scored 12 points against Petro, attributed his success to quietly going about his business behind the scenes.

“It was not something I was expecting. I wanted to come out here and show my work. My focus was on my game. I am happy to get the MVP and be the scoring leader,” said Boissy, who averaged 19.7 points per game. “We have a great team and management. They worked hard behind the scenes. It didn’t just happen. What you’re seeing now is the result of work that was put in when no one was watching.”

What a journey it was from the Road to BAL journey to the BAL champions for Al Ahli. As they embark on the long flight back to Tripoli, they will rest knowing it was their time to reap the reward of what they had sown.

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Diabate hungry for BAL title and the ring of victory

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SOLO Diabate certainly has to be one of the greatest stories to come from the BAL, which is now in its fifth season. The mercurial Ivorian point guard is the personification of what success and consistency are on the court. The floor general shares the record of winning the most BAL titles (two), and on Saturday afternoon, he will appear in a fourth final, a record he owns.

The latter bothers the Petro de Luanda player because, in his words, “no one remembers that you played in the final”. The competitor in Diabate will not allow him to settle for second place. In his second stint with Petro, he hopes to help them defend the title they won last year and win his third BAL trophy at the Sunbet Arena against Libya’s Al Ahli Tripoli.

“Being in the final means nothing. I want to win. I won the first two titles… With Zamalek and then US Monastir. I did not make the final in the third season, and I lost playing for Al Ahli Benghazi in the fourth,” said Diabate. “No one remembers that I was in the final. Ok, it’s talked about. But everyone remembers Petro won last year.

“I don’t want to be in the final just to say I played in it this many times… I want to win.”

The 37-year-old says he kept his cool after Petro cut down Egyptian giants Al Ittihad, unbeaten before the semi-final on Wednesday night. More than winning the trophy, this year, the BAL has also introduced winners’ rings, and Diabate wants to be the first to put one on.

“That is why yesterday, after the semi-final, I did not celebrate too much. The job is not done until you win the cup and the ring. The BAL is also giving rings to the winners, so I want to win so I can be among the first players to wear it on their finger,” said a two-time AfroBasket silver medallist.

Solo Diabate Petro de Luanda — **Solo Diabate wants a BAL title more than to set records. Pictures: The BTO**

As he said, the job of the BAL is far from over, and he did not want to entertain the talk of the potential of sitting atop the totem pole as the sole player to win the trophy three times. He recalled a statement made by former NBA player Ian Mahinmi that might have jinxed him ahead of the final against Petro last year.

“I don’t want to talk about it. I remember last year, before the final, Ian Mahinmi told me, ‘Solo. If you win your third final, we are going to retire your jersey.’ I was like ok, but we lost the game,” said Diabate. “So I don’t want to talk or think too far ahead about the other stuff… I want to win first.

“I am not here to set records. Or try to be the first to do this or that. If I win, I will be happy.”

Before delving further into Saturday’s final, Diabate spoke about his return to Angola, specifically, Petro, and the BAL season the club has had. He described the club as a well-run institution, and he articulated his admiration for Os Petroleos’ loyal fans.

“I love everything around Angolan basketball. People care about it, and that is why the game has developed the way it has. As Petro, they take care of players. That’s why I came back,” said Diabate. “Also, the fans… I remember playing in the gym two years ago and how packed it was for those games. I liked it. Our goal that year was to win the BAL, but it didn’t happen… It’s a second chance to win it.”

He rejoined a Petro that is without legends like Carlos Morais, Jone Pedro and Gerson Lukeny, who all moved on to different clubs. While it was an adjustment for Diabate, he spoke with the understanding that it is part of the cycle of sports players to move on from clubs.

“They are my brothers. Even if I played with them for a season, we remain close. I think the Angolan players felt the change the most because they played with them (the legends) the longest,” said Diabate. “It was weird to go back and have them not there, but its part of the business… I am old enough to undertstand that.”

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Despite the significant personnel change, Diabate and the new-look Petro again defended the domestic league and cup titles, and many would have expected them to blitz through the tough Sahara Conference in Senegal.

It was not the case, as Petro gave inconsistent performances in the group phase. In their three wins, they looked like championship material, and in their three losses, they resembled a has-been outfit.

“It was the hardest conference. Our conference was the most competitive. All the teams were good. It’s basketball. Sometimes you shine, and other times it’s a struggle,” said Diabate. “People started saying we are not ready. But here we are in the final. We have two new players that have helped us. These are great guys and additions. They changed things for us.”

Diabate was referring to South Africa’s small forward, Samkelo Cele and American combo guard, Kendrick Ray, who both signed for Petro for the playoffs in South Africa.

Both players were part of the seeding game loss to Rwanda’s APR, and that defeat heightened the noise of Petro’s doubters. Diabate reasoned that the loss was a necessary wake-up call for him and his teammates.

“They destroyed us, physically, technically, in everything. They were strong,” said Diabate. “So we went back to the hotel, watched some video footage, and took time to think about the game. This got us ready against Monastir, a team we played twice in Senegal.”

Between the loss to APR and the eventual victory over Tunisia’s Monastir, something shifted. Sergio Moreno tinkered with his starting line-up in the quarter-final against Monsatir and employed a similar strategy against Al Ittihad, leading to a third final appearance for Petro. While Moreno’s move confused the hell out of their opposition on two occasions, Diabate downplayed it.

“The changing of line-ups is nothing special because we have a lot of players. They all bring something to the court. So our coach has a lot of choices,” Diabate.

The BAL final brings a certain feeling of déjà vu for Petro as they face another Libyan opposition in Al Ahli Tripoli. Diabate, who is well-versed in Libyan basketball, expects Tripoli to bring their A-game.

“This is one of the hardest finals I am going to play in. They are a strong team and well-coached, but we are ready for those 40 minutes of basketball,” Diabate stated confidently.

Diabate pledged they want to win BAL Season 5 for the Petro fans, but he also wants a triumph for sentimental reasons.

“We are going to fight like we have since the beginning. We want to make history for everybody. I want to win it for my dad, too. He loves Petro, I don’t know why but he has always loved them. So, I want to win it for him,” concluded Diabate.

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Strong family ties and hardwork put Marei in position for success

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EGYPTIAN baller Assem Marei says family is one of the elements that has kept him grounded since he started playing basketball. His father, mother and brother all played their part in schooling him on the finer points of the game. Now, as a grown man and a professional, his wife is playing a key role in being the glue that holds his family together, and her presence has helped Marei achieve a thriving career.

In an interview with The Big Tip Off, Al Ahli Tripoli player Marei described how his family’s influence has encompassed his career. He also talks about being part of Libyan club Al Ahli Tripoli’s push for success at the BAL playoffs.

Thirty-year-old Marei, the son of a former basketball player, Ahmed Marei, who now coaches, says his family taught him how to be coachable, which in turn made him a better player.

“My dad, mom and brother… Everybody played basketball, so I grew up around it. My father has been a head coach for as long as I can remember. I had three head coaches, so it gave me a level head and it taught me to accept criticism and not to be sensitive,” said the Egyptian national team player. “One of the things I can say about myself is that I am coachable and I can accept criticism from a coach because I have had it my whole life.”

The tough love from his family paid off as his game grew, leading the former Zamalek player to be part of a generation of Egyptian players who made their way to college in the United States.

“One of the programs that opened that door was Basketball Without Borders (BWB). It (BWB) and the national federation paved the way for me to attend college,” said Marei, who attended Minnesota State University and graduated with a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies.

Assem Marei Al Ahli Tripoli — **Assem Marei’s career began in Egypt, and it has seen him go on to have a phenomenal career abroad. Pictures: The BTO**

His career from college to the pros has been a picture of toil and well-earned accolades. Marei, who earned NSIC (Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference) honours from 2012-2015, says the success comes from understanding what his job is on the court and being great at it.

“I am grateful. I never expected to play this long, ten years as a professional outside of Egypt and three years in college. Every year, I get hungrier. I feel I have the best job in the world. I want to keep it going for as long as possible,” said Marei. “The one thing I am big on is job descriptions. Growing up, it’s something my dad talked to me about. He’s huge on job descriptions on the court. It’s something I accepted. So what I do on the court, I do at a high level.

“That helped me throughout my career… Focusing on inside presence, rebounding and helping my team. So, I am not going to be a pick and pop shooter or shoot three points… Those things will take away from what got me here.”

Marei joined Al Ahli Tripoli for the BAL playoffs in South Africa after helping to lead the South Korean club Changwon LG Sakers to the KBL (Korean Basketball League) title.

Travelling through the different time zones took a lot out of him, and obtaining a visa to travel to South Africa seemed like an extreme sport. Marei had to country hop a bit before securing his travel documents to South Africa. Despite the challenge and toll it took, Marei was calm.

“It was the most difficult thing I have gone through in my career. I am happy to be here,” said Marei. “I had to bring my wife and kids to Egypt first and stayed there for a bit. From home, I had to fly to Rwanda and then to Istanbul to get a visa for South Africa. Things did not work in Istanbul, so I had to fly to Tunisia and then back home to take care of my wife and other things.”

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Through the visa ordeal and being an accomplished sportsman, Marei says the presence of his wife allows him to focus on his job.

“My wife is amazing. She does everything. She helps me focus on basketball. To me, it’s always family first. When that is taken care of, I can do my job,” said Marei. “Sometimes it’s too much for her. I have two boys and we are expecting a third baby. She has been an important part of this.”

In South Africa, for the last week, Marei has also had to give his attention to the Al Ahli Tripoli family, which is trying to become the first club from Libya to win the BAL title.

So far, he has had a productive three games, two in the Nile Conference against APR (10 points and nine rebounds) and MBB (18 points and 10 rebounds) and in the quarter-finals against Kriol Star (13 points and 13 rebounds).

While the numbers are pleasing to the eye and have contributed to Al Ahli becoming the second club from Libya to progress to the semi-finals, where they will face familiar foe APR, Marei feels he can up his game a bit more.

“It can get better. One of my favourite things is I love when other players enjoy playing with me. That makes me happy as a player. I think we are achieving that,” said Marei. “I like to be a players player… Helping my teammates to play better. We are transitioning well. We are getting better with every game.”

On Wednesday at the Sunbet Arena, Marei and his teammates will face an improved APR team that dismantled the Rivers Hoopers in their Monday afternoon quarter-final clash.

“APR have size and they are athletic. They cover space well. So our offence has to play the right way… We have to space and all that because they can cover their defensive mistake by their size,” said Marei.

Assem Marei in action for Al Ahli Tripoli — **Assem Marei has enjoyed his time at Al Ahli Tripoli, and he believes members of the club put in a good shift, so it can be successful.**

Al Ahli will attempt to match the feats of rivals Al Ahli Benghazi by becoming the second Road to BAL and Libyan team to qualify for the BAL final. Given his closeness to the situation, Marei shared why Libyan teams are succeeding at the BAL.

“They have so much heart. Not just the players, but the staff at the club too. They have put so much heart and soul into this. And the whole country is watching,” said Marei. “It’s exciting to be part of an organisation where basketball means so much. It puts a huge responsibility on our shoulders.

“If you are a good high-level player, you want that. We want every game to mean a lot and not just play nonchalantly. It makes the game a lot more fun.”

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Salgado, Kriol Star putting Cape Verde on the map in the BAL

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KRIOL Star coach Hugo Salgado had taken time off from basketball for family reasons, but an SOS call from the team owner and player Joel Almeida led to the Portuguese coach doing a u-turn on his intended commitments. It seems to be a decision that has paid off for the Cape Verde team, which keeps scaling new heights.

Salgado told The Big Tip Off on Saturday at the Maslow Hotel, a day before Kriol Star’s BAL quarter-final clash against Libyan club Al Ahly Tripoli, that a long-standing relationship between him and the Almeida brothers swayed him.

“It is friendship that brought me on board. I used to coach Joel and Ivan Almeida back in Portugal 12 years ago,” recalled Salagado. “When he called, I had taken a short break from basketball. I have two small kids, and I had a difficult season last year at my former club.

He continued: “I wanted to use December to rest and be with my family. That is when Joel called me about helping them out with qualifying (for the BAL). It was a last-minute call, but I said to myself, ‘Why not?’.

“So the season I wanted to rest, is the season I travelled the most.”

Hugo Salgado Kriol Star — **Hugo Salgado led Kriol Star to a historic BAL qualification. Pictures: The BTO**

Kriol Star’s foray into Africa’s elite club competition saw them go through the disappointment of finishing winless in the preliminary Road to BAL Division West last year. But good fortune befell Salgado and his team when they gained entry to the Elite 16 Division East via a wild card.

The islanders would finish among the top two clubs, laying the way for them to make their BAL debut. Which was also a first for Cape Verde’s basketball.

Reflecting on the Road to BAL, Salgado says the reason they performed poorly in Libya was a combination of scrambling to put a team together in a short time and not having enough time to practice.

“Our biggest struggle was that we did not have time to practice. We got entry into the tournament late, and we had to put together a team in two days,” said Salgado. “I remember the game against Stade Malien, who also made it to this year’s BAL. We did well leading the game for 30 minutes, but they punished us in the last 10 minutes.

“Against Al Ahli, we dominated one quarter, but our lack of preparation showed.”

Going to Kenya, Salgado says he had ample time to prepare the team, which led to the historic qualification for the months-old club.

“In Kenya, we did not change much. The difference was having enough time to pick the players that could compete at this level. We managed to do something amazing… Which was to beat Urunani in the semi-final. Before then they were unbeaten, so it was amazing for us,” said Salgado.

Fast forward to the BAL Sahara Conference, the club from the island nation continued to make great strides. They ended with a 3-3 record, and they were the best third-place team in the tournament.

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The qualification for the playoffs in Tshwane, South Africa, was not without drama. Following the do-or-die win over Angolan giants Petro de Luanda, which added another milestone to Kriol Star’s and Cape Verde’s basketball history, a post on social media alleged that some import players were unhappy with living conditions and that the team owed them money.

Looking back at the situation and the victory over Petro, Salgado says he left out players who would not help the team’s cause. He also dispelled rumours of management intervening in team matters.

“It was easy (to motivate the players) against Petro. I found the right players to win the that game. I left out the players who were not healthy for the team. It was a coaching decision not a management one, as I read in some articles,” emphasised Salgado. “It was a coaching decision…. Against Petro we put up a big fight. It was important that we either win or lose with dignity.”

The adversity seems to have made this upstart team from Cape Verde a closer unit. Following their 91-88 win over Morocco’s FUS Rabat in the seeding game on Friday night, a new level of confidence should ideally engulf the club, especially in the quarter-final battle against familiar foe Al Ahli on Sunday.

Salgado may be well-acquainted with his club’s opponents, and he also has Ivan Almeida, a former Ahli player, who helped the Libyans qualify for the BAL. Asked if he will lean on what he has learnt about them and the intimate knowledge Almeida possesses about them, Salgado said a vehement no.

“Hundred per cent no! The way we have studied them is the way they have studied us,” said Salgado. “I am going to take the pressure. We love pressure. We love going on the court, knowing that there is a knockout game we have to win.

“If we win, it will again be a historic moment. If Al Ahli lose, that’s tough.”

Hugo Salgado Kriol Star Coach — **Hugo Salgado says Kriol Star is prepared to fight in the quarter-final clash against Al Ahli.**

Salgado is also happy with what he has been able to achieve with Kriol Star, a franchise operating on a smaller budget than some of the teams at the BAL.

“It’s the difference in budgets here. I don’t like to talk too much about budgets, but if we had more money, I would pay the players we have now,” said Salgado. “I like the team we have… They show up on the court and fight for the club.

“We don’t have an advantage. Al Ahli will be the favourites because of how they built the roster, but we will fight.”

The islanders have been resilient against many odds, and on Sunday, they will have to dig in if they want to continue their miraculous run.

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