Al Ahli Tripoli Archives | The Big Tip Off

Almeida, Al Ali to bring the noise at Intercontinental Cup

CAPE Verdean superstar baller Ivan Almeida gave a light chuckle during a telephone interview when he was asked about adding another FIBA competition to his playing rèsumè. The Intercontinental Cup, which commences on Thursday (18-21 September), will be amongst the tournaments he has played in during his illustrious career.

He downplayed the significance of the milestone, intimating that Al Ahli Tripoli, the team he helped qualify for the Basketball Africa League (BAL) last year, and their mission in Singapore, far outweighs his adding another tournament to his playing rèsumè.

“We keep building. For me, it’s another competition. I want to go there and ensure the team is well-represented. It’s not about me having another tournament on my rèsumè. I look at it as an opportunity,” said Almeida. “The team won the BAL, so we are representing Libya and the African continent… Having that opportunity is amazing.

“Whatever we can do to get a good result while we are there, we will do.”

Ivan Almeida Intercontinental Cup 2025 — **Ivan Almeida brings experience to the ranks of Al Ahli. Pictures: FIBA**

Almeida’s time as a basketball player has seen him slip on the Cape Verde jersey on basketball’s great stages – the World Cup and AfroBasket – five times. He has turned out for Portuguese club Benfica in the European Champions League, and lit it up for home club Kriol Star in the Basketball Africa League. The Cape Verdean remarked that he feels right at home with the Libyan giants, and it’s understandable, given the history he’s helped build for the club.

“Joining Al Ahli is good. I know the people here – the management and the players who were there before. I don’t feel like I am coming to something new,” said Almeida, who was speaking from the club’s training camp in Tunisia.

The 37-year-old says he appreciates the club’s new Egyptian coach, Mohamed Elkerdany, making him a part of the club.

“I appreciate the coach for bringing me in for my experience and ability to help the team. The conditions here (in Tunisia) are good. We have been working, and then the next day (Monday), we will leave for Singapore,” said Almeida. “Everything is on the right track, and I hope I can help the team win a lot of games.”

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Almeida is among five recruits for the Libyan club, alongside 2025 BAL MVP Jean Jacques Boissy, Makur Maker (from South Sudan), Ismael Romero (Puerto Rico) and Marcos Knight (United States).

Despite being assembled in a short time, Almeida says the core of the squad and the recruits have acclimated to one another.

“We have been practising since the sixth. We played a friendly (on Saturday), which we won. It has been a process of adjustment and getting to know each other. The club has high-level players with international experience,” said Almeida. “I think we can go to the Intercontinental Cup and represent ourselves well. And make some noise.

“The practices have been going great, and the coach has been able to implement his system. There is focus and discipline in our team. We are doing everything the coaching staff are demanding of us.”

He again emphasised experience when asked about the value he and other recruits bring to the team.

“I think it’s about combining the energy of the young guys and the experience of the older guys. A player like Boissy is young and energetic. He can play both ends of the floor. I think that’s what defines us. Nobody takes breaks, we play defence and offence,” said Almeida. “It is one of the building blocks when a coach builds the team. From there, we have to hold each other accountable and take the best decisions for the betterment of the team.”

Ivan Almeida FIBA World Cup 2025 — **Ivan Almeida says he is considering his international future with Cape Verde after appearing in a fifth AfroBasket for the island nation in August.**

The future

With the year far from over and still a lot of basketball to play in Africa, with the Road to BAL and World Cup Qualifiers. Are these tournaments part of Almeida’s plans?

The Road to BAL: I am not certain about the Road to BAL. I have signed with Al Ahli for a month, so after October 6, we will see about the Road to BAL,” said Almeida.

FIBA World Cup Qualifiers: “It’s a big question mark regarding the national team. I think it was my last one. I am not sure… It is a big question mark,” said Almeida.

His international future with his country may be in doubt, but on the club front, Almeida can be expected to play lights out for Al Ahli in Singapore.

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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.

Marathon journey ends with first BAL title for Al Ahli Tripoli Read More »

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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Vincent and Prinsloo get real about reason for MBB’s failures

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SOUTH African basketball is rich in potential but trapped in a cycle of dysfunction. Despite having excellent infrastructure, South Africa lags due to deep-rooted leadership issues within basketball. These problems were evident during the 2024 BAL Nile Conference, where Johannesburg-based Made By Basketball (MBB) finished with a 2-4 record, missing the playoffs and raising familiar questions about the country’s readiness to compete at the highest level.

Head coach Sam Vincent, a former NBA player and seasoned coach, did not hold back in assessing the situation in the post-game presser.

“We came into camp a little late. We were still adding players, we don’t have a formal league in South Africa to give four or five months of development and playing together as a team to prepare for this competition,” said the former Nigeria national women’s team coach.

Vincent pointed out the lack of consistent, competitive basketball in the country. Even in the country’s national league, the BNL, an entity no longer recognised by Basketball South Africa, undermines growth at every level.

“I saw the schedule for the BNL league, and there are maybe three games for the season. It’s just not enough competition. If South African players are going to improve and get better, they need to play regularly,” he stated.

Sam Vincent MBB Basketball Africa League — **Sam Vincent laments the state of South African basketball. Pictures: The BAL**

Vincent’s counterpart from Al Ahli Tripoli, Coach Fouad Abou Chacra, whose team defeated MBB twice in the tournament, offered a moment of camaraderie. While praising South Africa’s raw talent, he highlighted the disconnect between potential and preparation.

“The team needs to be more organised, I know many of these players and they can perform well. But the coach is the pilot; he needs more time to bring the plane up and down safely,” said Abou Chacra.

He emphasised the importance of cultural awareness and long-term commitment when building a national basketball program

“I didn’t bring my program and impose it in Libya. I studied the culture… You can’t make generals into soldiers. Coaches need to adapt their philosophy to fit the people.”

No League, No Rhythm

MBB’s Pieter Prinsloo provided a frank assessment of the situation, pointing directly at the federation’s failure to establish a functioning professional league. “We need our federation to have a real, competitive league so we can prepare. Every other team in this competition will be playing in a league from October to November until April and May.”

He noted that countries like Egypt produce BAL-calibre teams because their players consistently stay in rhythm and compete in a professional league.

“Al Ittihad just reached the finals in Egypt, and US Monastir just played the finals with Club Africain. All these countries have a pro league, these players are in rhythm and playing the whole year,” said Prinsloo. “South Africa, unfortunately, is stuck in a situation where there are too many complications, and we don’t have a pro league that works.”

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Once MBB took to the floor, they looked a step slower than the opposition in the games they lost. South Africa’s representatives entered the tournament undercooked, having only completed a six-week training camp.

“We’re coming in off a six-week training camp and expected to put it all together, and it’s hard,” Prinsloo admitted.

However, it wasn’t just a lack of structure, it was a lack of cohesion. Prinsloo pointed out that teams like Tripoli displayed fluid, cohesive basketball because their players played together consistently.

“A team like Tripoli play incredible team basketball because they’ve been together throughout the whole year, some for multiple years,” said Prinsloo. “I arrived a week and a half before. Some of the guys arrived just four days before we flew here,” Prinsloo said.

The net result was that iTeam Yase Dladleni was still trying to find its rhythm while already in competition. “There were many moments where we didn’t play well, and you could tell that we were still a group of individuals coming together.”

A Window of Opportunity

Vincent believes the way forward is clear, but it won’t be easy. He insists that a long-term national league is essential, stating it must run for at least five to six months and provide 20 to 25 games per season if talent is to develop. “There has to be a more formal national league, consistent play is how you grow a program,” said Vincent.

Pieter Prinsloo, MBB, Basketball Africa League — **Pieter Prinsloo took aim at Basketball South Africa for not producing a competitive national league.**

He also called for better cooperation within the basketball community, from administrators to club owners and federation officials, to build sustainable systems rather than isolated efforts. Despite MBB’s early exit, Vincent remains optimistic. With the BAL Playoffs coming to Pretoria, South Africa’s capital, he encouraged fans to show up, engage with the sport, and experience world-class basketball on home soil.

“It’s amazing basketball. It’s a great competition. The entertainment and the arenas are NBA-style. You won’t get an NBA-style experience in Africa unless you attend a BAL event.”

South Africa does not lack talent. It lacks time on the court, structure off of it, and alignment among those driving the game forward. Until these gaps are closed, the country will continue to fall behind, not for lack of ability but for lack of preparation.

The BAL is bringing Africa’s best to Pretoria. The hope is that it can also inspire a sense of urgency because the window for South African basketball to catch up is still open, but won’t be open forever.

Vincent and Prinsloo get real about reason for MBB’s failures Read More »

Which Nile Conference teams will set sail for the playoffs?

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THE opening round of the BAL Nile Conference has provided a fascinating glimpse into the strengths, challenges, and potential of the four competing teams: Al Ahli Tripoli, APR, Made By Basketball (MBB), and Nairobi City Thunder. Each team’s performance has reflected distinct narratives shaped by leadership, injuries, and moments of brilliance, all setting the stage for an intense race toward the playoffs.

Al Ahli Tripoli: Leadership Shining Through Jean Jacques Boissy’s Impact

Al Ahli Tripoli stands out as the dominant force after being unbeaten in their first three games. Much of their success is anchored by the remarkable leadership of Jean-Jacques Boissy, who has consistently come off the bench to make a huge impact. Their system appears finely tuned, allowing multiple players to contribute in varying but complementary ways.

“Jean, although he is the youngest foreigner in our team, he has great leadership and charisma. We are lucky to have him, and from day one, he sent a clear message: he’s the leader,” said Al Ahli coach Fouad Abouh Chacra. “He’s reading the game, making his teammates look good, and he’s a great defender. Thank God, we have Jean-Jacques, and we will protect him and keep him with us because he fits in from day one. It feels like he has been with the team for ten years.”

Boissy is in scintillating form for the Libyan club, delivering standout performances with 28 points against MBB, 30 points versus Nairobi City Thunder, and 25 points against APR.

Jean Jacques Boissy Al Ahli BAL Nile Conferennce — **Jean Jacques Boissy is thriving in the colours of Al Ahli Tripoli at the Nile Conference. Pictures: The BAL**

Beyond Boissy, the team thrives in its system, with multiple players stepping up in different ways to help Al Ahli maintain aggressive play and solid teamwork – a formula that’s proving nearly unstoppable.

APR already missing the impact of Diarra in the Nile Conference

APR enters the second round with a solid 2-1 record, having been edged only by Al Ahli Tripoli. Central to APR’s success is Aliou Diarra, whose physical presence has been a game-changer. However, Diarra is sidelined by injury, and his return timeline is uncertain, with his status considered day-to-day. APR coach James Maye Jr was candid about the need for collective effort following the Malian forward’s absence.

“Of course, Aliou definitely would have been a help. But I think our team is deep enough. We just needed more of a team effort, and we failed at that tonight,” said Maye Jr.

Maye Jr pinpointed key factors in their loss to Al Ahli Tripoli. “They got the ball on the rim 17 more times than we did. We turned the ball over 21 times… They were just the aggressors,” said the American coach.

He underscored APR’s struggles with 21 turnovers and Al Ahli’s dominance on the offensive glass with 23 offensive rebounds, a sign of how discipline and execution will be crucial if APR hopes to contend as they move forward without their dominant big man.

Aliou Diarra APR Nile Conference — **Aliou Diarra has been a cornerstone for APR, and his absence due to injury was felt in the game against Al Ahli.**

Prinsloo and Leanard Jr give Vincent some nostalgic moments

MBB is still searching for consistency, posting a 1-2 record after losses to Al Ahli Tripoli and APR. However, Pieter Prinsloo’s performances offer a glimmer of hope, as he has emerged as a pivotal figure in MBB’s push for a playoff spot on home soil.

Coach Sam Vincent’s reflections reveal growing optimism. “I have to give the guys a lot of credit. We could’ve hung our heads, trailing the game the way we did and just given up. Instead we showed a lot of fight and determination,” said Vincent. “We made some slight adjustments to the lineup, and those brought more energy, tougher defence, and allowed us to push the ball up the court.”

The MBB coach also singled out Prinsloo’s game as a highlight. “Honestly, there were moments that gave me real NBA flashbacks. Prinsloo today reminded me of Larry Bird – no disrespect to Larry – but the step-back threes and low-post moves were sensational. And Teafale (Leanard Jr), with a couple of monstrous dunks, reminded me of Scottie Pippen,” said Vincent.

Defensive improvements have also been key, with players like Lebesa Selepe stepping up to take on tough defensive assignments, allowing more offensive freedom for others.

“A couple of things stood out. Selepe came in and did a great job defensively against (Evans) Ganapamo, which gave us a huge boost. At one point, TL (Teafale) wanted to guard their number one, but we needed him on offence. So we let Selepe take on that role, and he did a great job.”

Teafal Lenard Jr MBB — **Teafal Lenard has been a star for MBB in the Nile Conference.**

With better chemistry and a clearer understanding of rotations, MBB is building a foundation for the remaining three games.

Nairobi City Thunder: Unlocked Potential Amidst Challenges

Nairobi City Thunder has had a tough start to the season with a 0-3 record, but there are clear signs of promise. Their potential was highlighted against MBB, where they built an 18-point lead, and Evans Ganapamo delivered standout performances throughout.

Thunder coach Bradley Ibs reflected on the team’s struggles and moments of brilliance. “After we got the big lead in the third quarter, we got out of character. Defensively, we stopped playing according to our principles – lots of reaching, silly fouls, and missed boxouts on free throws. These lapses swung the momentum,” said Ibs

“We were great at getting into the paint in the first half, but in the second, we settled for too many perimeter shots. That wasn’t the plan – it just happened under pressure.”

Despite the losses, Ibs was encouraged by his performance and the team’s energy and cohesion improvements.

“I didn’t play any differently than in the last games; today, the shots just went in. This was a crucial game for us,” said Ibs. “We played with more energy and better cohesion today. We need to keep that same energy and clean up our mistakes moving forward.”

The key question remains: Can Nairobi City Thunder harness their potential quickly enough to reverse their fortunes and earn a playoff spot?

Evans Ganapamo City Thunder Nile Conference — **Evans Ganapamo found his scoring rhythm against MBB on Tuesday night.**

Conclusion

Each team now faces the challenge of building on its performance while addressing its weaknesses. With the playoffs looming, the race to secure the coveted three-playoff spots promises to be a thrilling battle filled with leadership moments, strategic adjustments, and individual brilliance.

Which Nile Conference teams will set sail for the playoffs? Read More »

Preview of Road To BAL Elite 16 Group B Division West

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THE Elite 16 will feature an exciting mix of emerging talents and seasoned players. Clubs like Al Ahli Tripoli, Kadji Sport, Mighty Barrolle Basketball Club, and Spintex Knights will embark on their first journeys in the Elite 16.

Group B presents a unique opportunity for these clubs to write a new chapter in their histories as they compete for glory on the continental stage. With only two spots on offer to the BAL, these teams cannot afford rookie jitters or missteps. Each team must bring their A-game, knowing that only the top two teams in the group will advance.

These clubs exemplify the spirit of resilience and competitive fire that defines African basketball. The excitement surrounding their debut is palpable, as fans and players alike look forward to thrilling matchups and unforgettable moments.

Al Ahli Tripoli

Al Ahli SC, commonly known as Al Ahli Tripoli, is one of the most prestigious clubs in Libyan basketball. Founded in 1950, they have an impressive record boasting eight Libyan Basketball League titles, four Libyan Cups, and two Super Cups. They have established themselves as a dominant force in their national league. After their unbeaten 2-0 run in the Road To BAL group phase, the Tripoli-based club will debut in the Elite 16.

Key Players

A key player for Al Ahli Tripoli is Michael Eric, whose impressive height (6’11) makes him a formidable presence in the paint. He averaged 18 points per game and boasted an impressive shooting percentage of 83.3% from the field, highlighting his efficiency and scoring ability. Eric’s contributions go beyond scoring – he also averaged seven rebounds and a block per game, solidifying his role as a defensive anchor for the team. Another important player is Mohamed Sadi, a talented shooting guard known for his long-range scoring ability. He averages 12.5 points per game, and his scoring talent adds significant offensive depth to the team.

**Mohamed Sadi is the sharp point of Al Ahli’s offence Pictures: FIBA**

Tactical Approach

Al Ahli Tripoli’s tactical game plan utilises Eric’s size and skill set to dominate the paint. The strategy emphasises strong ball movement to create open shot opportunities. It also prioritises efficient transition play. On the defensive end, the team can shut down opponents’ offensive schemes. They leverage their size and athleticism to secure rebounds and initiate fast breaks, allowing them to capitalise on their opponent’s mistakes.

Outlook

As Al Ahli Tripoli prepares to compete in The Elite 16, they do so with high expectations, especially following the impressive debut of fellow Libyan team Al Ahly Benghazi. With a blend of experienced players and emerging talent, they are well-positioned for a strong performance in the Elite 16.

Kadji Sport

Kadji Sport, hailing from Douala, Cameroon, has quickly established itself as a force. With a strong emphasis on player development, the club has nurtured numerous talented athletes. As they prepare for their debut in the Elite 16, Kadji Sport aims to make a mark among Africa’s top basketball clubs, striving to transfer their domestic success to the continental stage.

Key Players

Kenneth Kadji is a standout player for the club. He is versatile and has extensive experience in various international leagues. He is a skilled scorer and a big-time rebounder, and his defence makes him a key asset to the team. Another crucial player is Junior Mbeutcha, known for his explosive athleticism and impressive scoring ability. His contributions on both offence and defence are vital to the team’s success. Additionally, Tanguy Le Goff offers strong defensive capabilities, particularly in shot-blocking, which helps maintain a solid defensive presence for the team.

Tactical Approach

Kadji Sport emphasises a fast-paced and dynamic style of play, aiming to capitalise on transition opportunities whenever possible. Their offensive strategy focuses on spreading the floor and utilising Kadji’s unique skill set to create mismatches against defenders. Defensively, the team prioritises pressure and quick rotations to disrupt their opponents’ offensive flow, aiming to force turnovers and generate fast-break opportunities.

**Kenneth Kadji’s is going to be key for Kadji Sport.**

Outlook

As they enter the BAL Elite 16, Kadji Sport combines youth and experience, which could be advantageous in high-pressure situations, but more experienced opponents will test them. Kadji Sport is determined to showcase Cameroonian basketball on the continental stage.

Mighty Barrolle Basketball Club

Mighty Barrolle Basketball Club, founded in Monrovia, Liberia, has a history spanning several decades. As one of the premier basketball clubs in the country, they have won four national championships, with their most recent victories occurring in 2016, 2022, 2023, and 2024. Now, as they prepare for their debut in Elite 16, Mighty Barrolle aims for an upset or two.

Key Players

Omar Samba has become a crucial player for Mighty Barrolle, averaging 16 points, 10 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game. His versatility on the court enables him to impact the game in various ways, establishing him as a leader for the team. Chibuzo Joseph Njoku is a factor, consistently providing scoring and rebounding, which are vital as the team faces stiff competition. Their combined performances will be essential for navigating the challenges of the Elite 16.

Tactical Approach

Mighty Barrolle’s strategy focuses on a strong defence and effective rebounding as essential components of their game. They strive to control the tempo by transitioning quickly from defence to offence and taking advantage of their opponent’s mistakes. The team’s defensive approach features disciplined rotations and aggressive rebounding – vital for initiating fast breaks and exploiting mismatches during transitions.

Omar Samba in the Road To BAL — **Omar Samba is the go-to guy for Mighty Barrolle.**

Outlook

For the Elite 16 debut, Mighty Barrolle brings the momentum of recent national successes. They will encounter tough opponents, but the leadership of Samba and Njoku could be the difference. The club is committed to showcasing Liberian basketball on a larger stage and aims to leave a lasting impression in its inaugural appearance.

Spintex Knights

The Spintex Knights, known as “The Nobles,” is an emerging force in Ghanaian basketball. In their sixth year, Spintex has achieved significant milestones, including winning the Accra Basketball League (ABL) Division 1 title in 2023 with an impressive undefeated record of 22-0. As they prepare for their debut in the Elite 16, the Knights are eager to showcase their talent and competitive spirit at a continental level.

Key Players

James Amotoe has emerged as the leader for the Spintex Knights, averaging an impressive 25.7 points per game. His ability to score from various positions on the court makes him an invaluable asset to the team. They will rely on their depth which offers multiple scoring options and contributes to a balanced offensive strategy.

James Amotoe in action — **James Amotoe will try to maintain his form for the Elite 16.**

Tactical Approach

The Spintex Knights employ a fast-paced playing style, using their speed and agility to generate scoring opportunities. They are particularly effective in transition play and prioritise strong perimeter shooting to stretch opposing defences. The team’s tactical approach emphasises solid rebounding to initiate fast breaks, while their defensive strategy relies on effective communication and discipline to minimise easy scoring chances for their opponents.

Outlook

With their recent success in the ABL, the Spintex Knights will enter the Elite 16 with confidence and determination. The combination of young talent and experienced players positions the Spintex Knights to make a significant impact. Knights are in a brilliant position to elevate Ghana’s basketball while writing a new chapter for themselves.

The debuts of the clubs highlight the increasing competitiveness of African basketball. It paves the way for future successes on a larger stage.

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Almeida waxes lyrical about his music and success on the court

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IVAN Almeida has wowed crowds in the colours of Cape Verde on the international stage and in the different vests of European clubs he has played for. His exceptional talent has been rewarded with an abundance of team and individual accolades at the club level. But there is more to Almeida than just basketball.

In an interview with The Big Tip Off, Almeida waxed lyrical about his success on the court, the pinnacle of his career and his excitement when his second love – music was shared on the biggest stage in basketball.

The Cape Verdean generational talent intimated that music is one of the defining characteristics of his homeland. As soon as the music bug hit, Almeida could not help but get in on the act, citing the late great Cesaria Evora as one of Cape Verde’s influences.

“Music has been a part of my life from a young age. Cesaria is one of our most impactful artists – I think we are born with music in our blood,” said Almeida, who has avoided confining himself to a type of music. It helps that he is also a well-travelled hooper, as the exposure has diversified his artistic repertoire.

“I don’t have a genre of music. The EP I made with my friend was mostly hip-hop, R&B and pop songs… I have traditional Cape Verde songs and music from all over the world.

“I see music as another way of expressing myself… Since I have been to many countries I have absorbed different cultures and fused them into my music. I feel I have freedom when I write or produce music. I love it.”

Ivan Almeida at the World Cup — **Ivan Almeida heard his music being played at last year’s World Cup. Pictures: FIBA**

His focus is on his first love, basketball, which gave him a taste of African club basketball. He was a key figure in helping Libyan club Al Ahli Tripoli (hosts of the preliminary stages of the Road To BAL) to qualify for the Elite 16 leg of the Road To BAL.

Almeida says he has watched the main course, the BAL, from a distance. And since its emergence, it has piqued his interest. So getting a bite at the starter Road To BAL was exciting for the 35-year-old.

“It means everything. Since the BAL started, I have kept track of it and how it has developed. It has been something at the back of mind to play in it. So being here is amazing, even if it’s the Road To BAL. The atmosphere has been amazing,” said Almeida.

Part of Al Ahli’s journey to success had a dose of sentiment for Almeida. In the last game, he had to help Al Ahli beat Kriol Star, a club he founded with his brother Joel, a player for the Cape Verdean club.

While he may have felt a tinge of emotion, Ivan, who averaged 14 points, seven rebounds and four assists in the Road To BAL, says he always plays to win.

“It was kinda weird, but I take basketball very seriously… Walter (Hodge) and I were talking at lunch. He asked, ‘You are going to play against your brother. Are you going to let him win?’. I told him, ‘no I am not. It does not matter who I play against, I play to win,'” chuckled Almeida.

He was also proud that a club from his country graced continental competition. “It is definitely a pleasure to have seen a Cape Verdean team there… My brother and I started Kriol Star – hopefully, sooner rather than later, I’ll be able to play for them to help raise our basketball,” said Almeida. “It’s amazing to see the professionalisation of the country’s (Cape Verde) basketball given where it was before… Seeing Cape Verdean players compete with other Africans is important.

“Back to the game, I take every game professionally – I told my brother we were gonna beat them.”

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While on a short-term contract with the side based in the Libyan capital (Tripoli), he is weighing his options – one of those is possibly playing in the BAL with the North Africans.

“I have signed a two week contract. My agent is still looking in places like Asia and Europe. Hopefully, I will stay here but we will see how things go,” said Almeida.

The 2019 Poland Basketball League (PLK) Finals MVP says he would like to follow in the footsteps of African greats who have played in the league. “I have watched many greats play there (the BAL) – like Carlos Morais and my teammate Walter (Hodge). I would love to be in the BAL like the African greats who have played in it,” said Almeida.

He is also one of the most accomplished players from Africa – winning league titles in Poland (2) and Portugal (3). Almeida is full of gratitude for a trophy-laden career, and he is still hungry for more.

“These last few years have been amazing for me. I finally figured out how to win, and in the last six seasons, I have won five championships,” said Almeida. “It’s been about figuring out what needs to happen to win a championship. What sacrifices do we have to make? We all play basketball because we love it. But we also want to win.

“Many players go through their careers without winning a championship. So I am grateful to have done it and at high level. Hopefully it keeps going.”

Ivan Almeida Benfica — **Ivan Almeida won three Portuguese League titles during his time at Benfica.**

He has achieved much at the club level, but Almeida says that it does not compare to playing in last year’s FIBA World Cup. It was a historical moment for the island – being the smallest nation to qualify for the tournament.

“It’s not one of the greatest moments of my career. It is the greatest – putting Cape Verde on the big stage like the World Cup. We did it as a team and it was more than being the smallest nation at the tournament,” said Almeida. “The journey to getting there and all the sacrifices that we had to make. Not having pleasant conditions at times and many other struggles made us achieve the impossible.

“People sent messages saying thank you for representing us and putting us on the world stage. It was a superb feeling to see the gratitude of the people.”

He also described the moment his two passions collided on the global extravaganza.

“One of the greatest feelings I felt was walking to warm up… The first thing I saw was the Cape Verdean flag… I was listening to my music on the headphones. When I took them off and heard the music I released playing at the venue. I was like ‘Wow this is crazy’. I am experiencing two of my passions basketball and music. It was amazing,” concluded Almeida.

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