AMERICAN-born Jonathan Cisse had grown up without his father for most of his life, so when he met him for the first time two years ago in Côte d’Ivoire, as stated in a social media post, it proved life-changing on two fronts. It was a chance for him to build a relationship with his father, who is from Côte d’Ivoire, and it opened doors for his playing career in the West African country. The 26-year-old has since become part of Côte d’Ivoire’s basketball fabric, having donned the Elephant’s orange jumper in March at the 2027 World Cup Africa Qualifiers in Senegal. He continued his club career on the continent with JCA Kings, whom he helped qualify for the BAL last year, and he is part of their ongoing BAL debut campaign. This meaningful personal milestone also intersected with his growing career. Reflecting on this turning point, he says that meeting his father was “perfect timing”, and it became a launchpad for his basketball journey on the continent. “It was special. Just growing up my whole life, not knowing my dad… It was perfect timing when I met him,” said Cisse. “I was coming out of college, starting my professional career. He kind of mentioned at first that I should look into playing for the national team.” In addition to his father’s encouragement, he says playing in Europe drew the attention of the national team selectors.
Jonathan Cisse made his debut for Côte d’Ivoire at the World Cup Qualifiers. Pictures: FIBA and Getty
Looking back on the lead-up before his debut, Cisse explained, “First year in Cyprus (2024-25 season) opened the doors. People started noticing my game. The director of the Ivorian national team said, ‘maybe you should consider’. This year, it finally happened,” said Cisse. “It was an honour when it finally happened, and seeing what it means to the people of the country. It was a special experience.” On the court, Cisse finally made his debut for Côte d’Ivoire this year after missing out on the AfroBasket last year. He was part of the exceptional Elephants team, which went on a tear in the second window of the World Cup Africa Qualifiers, finishing with a 3-0 record in Group B. The fine start to the campaign has Cisse eager to continue the national team’s momentum in the next round of qualifiers (2-5 July in Senegal). “I’m looking forward to the next window. I think we have a very solid team. It’s been great. My experience of missing the (2025) AfroBasket was disappointing. I was not cleared in time to play after getting to know and train with everybody,” said Cisse, who averaged 14 points, 3.7 rebounds and 3 assists in the second window between February 26 and March 1. “Now that I have played with them and everybody knows each other, I am excited. I think we can do something special. I am excited for what’s to come.” For Cisse, turning out for the JCA Kings led to him picking up the finer points of the game in Africa from legendary player and current club coach Stéphane Konaté. “It’s a different style of basketball from what I am used to, but it’s been great just doing what I love, which is playing basketball. I am having fun with it, working hard on and off the court, so I can continue to grow as a player and as a teammate,” said Cisse. “I am learning from Coach Steph. I know he had a great career with the national team. He’s been helping out a lot too, so it’s been a great experience.”
Jonathan Cisse still holds hope JCA can make the playoffs.
What has been forgettable so far is their BAL debut, as JCA fell 0-3 in the Sahara Conference, which has heightened the pressure on Cisse and his teammates to win their two remaining games so they can have a chance of qualifying for the playoffs in Kigali. Before the tip-off of the Sahara Conference, Cisse said the team was looking forward to their debut. “I think it’s good spirits… The practices have been intense. High level. We have been going at it and stuff. I think everybody is excited to make their debut,” said Cisse. “I think we are going to shock a lot of people. I know not many people are expecting us to do much, but we are excited, hungry, and everybody is ready to show what we can do.” Things have not gone according to script, but Cisse has not lost hope of a place in the playoffs despite a third loss in a row, a 79-74 defeat to Club Africain on Tuesday, in which he scored 30 points and dished out 7 assists. “We still have two games left. We need to keep our heads high. We are not satisfied. We are gonna come out and compete in these next two games,” said Cisse of JCA’s dire situation at the post-match press conference. Like in life, Cisse understands there are highs and lows, and the latter times require a team with unshakable resolve to overcome adversity.
THE Basketball Africa League (BAL) Sahara Conference has reached its halfway mark at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex in Rabat, Morocco, and the race to Kigali is beginning to take real shape.
With nine games in the books and six remaining, the race to Kigali is separating the contenders from the rest, getting closer for some and slipping away for others. So far, only the Tunisian champions, Club Africain, have officially secured their place in the post-season.
Current Standings
Club Africain sits comfortably at the top of the standings at 3–0, their perfect start enough to clinch the first ticket to Kigali. Behind them, the host club FUS Rabat and Al Ahly are tied at 2–1, holding the head-to-head edge for now.
The middle of the table is where the tension truly lies. ASC Ville de Dakar and Maktown Flyers are both 1–2, with ASC currently occupying the fourth playoff spot thanks to a dramatic one-point victory over FUS Rabat.
At the bottom, JCA Kings remain winless at 0–3, their playoff hopes hanging by a thread. With only three game days remaining and three spots still up for grabs, every possession from here carries playoff implications.
Nail-Biters and Down-to-the-Wire Drama
The Sahara Conference has delivered tense action from the opening tip. Club Africain’s 85–79 win over ASC Ville de Dakar set the tone, a six-point thriller decided in the closing minutes. Maktown Flyers followed with a gritty 76–68 win over JCA Kings, refusing to let their campaign spiral early.
Osayi Osifo has helped Egypt’s Al Ahly get into a good position for the playoffs. Pictures: NBA and Getty
One of the biggest shocks came when Club Africain edged Al Ahly 69–68, announcing themselves as legitimate contenders. Tuesday night raised the stakes even further, as Club Africain survived a gruelling 79–74 overtime battle against JCA Kings. This win clinched their ticket to Kigali.
Perhaps the most dramatic moment came when ASC Ville de Dakar stunned FUS Rabat 67–66, sealed by a clutch three-pointer from Samba Fall with just four seconds remaining. This shot reshaped the playoff picture instantly.
Scoring output
While the Kalahari Conference featured more explosive offensive outputs, with Petro de Luanda breaking the 100-point barrier three times and several games landing in the 90s. The Sahara Conference has been more tightly contested, with winning scores typically in the 60s to 80s range and fewer blowouts. So far, only one game has reached the 90s: FUS Rabat’s 97–72 demolition of Maktown Flyers.
This suggests that while the Kalahari has produced higher-scoring games overall, the Sahara’s tighter margins may better prepare teams for the pressure awaiting in Kigali.
The debutantes divide
Club Africain has been the revelation of the conference. They stunned the Egyptian champions Al Ahly 69-68 in their opener. They followed with an 85-79 win over ASC Ville de Dakar. Then they survived a gruelling 79-74 overtime battle against JCA Kings on Tuesday night, which secured the first playoff spot for them.
Maktown Flyers authored another compelling narrative. The Nigerian club refused to stay down. After a 25-point defeat to FUS Rabat in their opener, the Nigerian side regrouped and made history, defeating JCA Kings 76-68. However, they came up short against Al Ahly, losing 89-80 in their third game.
Samba Daly Fall’s clutch three gave ASC Ville de Dakar their first win of the Sahara Conference.
For JCA Kings, however, the learning curve has been steep. Still searching for their first win, they face a daunting schedule ahead against Al Ahly and ASC Ville de Dakar. These are two sides on the brink of qualification. Their 55-point performance against FUS Rabat remains the lowest-scoring output of the 2026 BAL season, underscoring their offensive struggles.
The Road to Kigali
With the Sahara conference set to conclude on Sunday, the stakes could not be higher. Four teams will advance to Kigali, joining the Kalahari Conference qualifiers: RSSB Tigers, Petro de Luanda, Al Ahly Ly, and Dar City.
Club Africain have already punched their ticket. The remaining three spots are still up for grabs. FUS Rabat and Al Ahly are each just one win away from securing qualification. Behind them, ASC Ville de Dakar and Maktown Flyers remain within striking distance, ready to capitalise on any slip.
AS the Basketball Africa League’s Sahara Conference begins on Friday, a blend of new talent, well-known players, and pivotal moments will take centre stage. It will also be the setting of an historic moment. For one individual in particular, this occasion signifies the continuation of a journey that has already unfolded across multiple chapters.
Stéphane Konaté, who previously played for the ABC Fighters, returns to the BAL, but this time in a different role –é as head coach of Côte d’Ivoire’s JCA Kings.
This transition showcases how competing in the league can lead to leadership opportunities, influencing not only his own career path but also the direction of the team he now oversees.
Understanding the BAL as a Player
Before stepping into the role of a coach, Konaté gained valuable experience as a player in the Basketball Africa League (BAL). That experience continues to influence his approach to the game today. He views the BAL as the highest level of club basketball on the continent, a platform where ambition, preparation, and performance converge.
His participation in the BAL was crucial as he neared the end of his playing career. It represented not only an opportunity to compete but also a chance to immerse himself in the experience.
“The BAL is the biggest club competition in Africa. To participate in this competition as a player was an accomplishment for me,” he stated. “I was told my career was ending, but I wanted to take part in this competition.”
What stood out most to him during this time was the importance of mindset. He emphasises that his focus was on enjoyment rather than pressure.
Stéphane Konaté has enjoyed a meteoric rise in his coaching career. Pictures: BAL
“My biggest challenge was to enjoy the experience… Doing well both on and off the court. I truly enjoyed it as a player,” he reflected. “As a coach, I encourage my players to enjoy every moment and to be happy playing in those conditions. When you do, everything falls into place.”
This philosophy now guides how he leads from the sidelines.
From the Court to the Sidelines
Konaté’s journey in the BAL will come full circle this week as he transitions from player to coach. This change brings not only personal pride but also significant responsibility as he takes on his new role on the sidelines. Embracing this change, Konate gains a renewed perspective that reflects the evolving landscape of African club basketball.
“An African competition is still a competition,” he stated. “So we have to compete and fight.”
With his unique background, Konaté understands the demands of the game and the mindset required for success, drawing heavily from his experiences on the court. Konaté’s lived experience gives him an advantage, especially in navigating the intensity of the BAL, where a high volume of games in a short period leaves little room for error.
Each game serves as both a lesson and a test, providing immediate feedback while exposing vulnerabilities that could be exploited on the court of play.
For him, this moment represents not an endpoint but rather the next chapter in his relationship with basketball in Africa. Transitioning from player to coach involves more than just knowledge of the game; it requires the ability to translate past experiences into valuable guidance for younger players.
“It is a great joy and pride to be the first to play in the BAL and to return to the competition as a coach. It is a great opportunity for me as well,” he said, highlighting the significance of his journey. “I draw inspiration from all the experiences I’ve acquired during my career,” he explained.
With this foundation, he aims to motivate his players to give their best and navigate the challenges of high-level competition.
Shaping JCA After the Road to BAL
When Konate took over JCA, the situation was far from straightforward. With only a short time to prepare before the season began, he had to quickly establish structure, identity, and belief within the group. Despite the limited preparation, the team responded well, ultimately winning the national championship and successfully navigating the Road to BAL, which led to their qualification through the Elite 16 West Division.
In the months since the Road to BAL, JCA’s focus has shifted to maintaining sharpness and momentum during the extended break, which can often be a challenge for teams with limited time to adjust to the demands of the BAL.
“Since the Road to BAL, this team has remained united, strong, and disciplined,” he said. “The preparation has gone well, and the management has implemented the necessary means to ensure everything runs smoothly.”
Konate is particularly encouraged by the balance within the squad, which combines experienced players with young talent. He believes this mix is essential to their identity.
“This team is doing well,” he said. “We have a blend of experienced players and several young players, and it’s working effectively.”
For him, the key aspect is not just individual talent but the collective chemistry among the players. “The strength of this team lies in its chemistry,” he said.
Stephané Konaté wants his team to savour their BAL debut.
A Young Team On A Big Stage
With four tickets to Kigali available, JCA have as good a chance as any to book their place in the next phase. For a young group, many of whom are experiencing this level for the first time, the learning curve will be steep.
Coming in as debutants, however, also offers a subtle advantage. With no established expectations weighing on them, JCA have the freedom to define themselves on their own terms, playing with expression, belief, and the identity that carried them through qualification.
Konate is realistic about the demands ahead, but he frames them as an opportunity rather than a limitation. Pressure exists, but so does belief.
“All I wish for this young team is to give the best of themselves, and not regret it afterwards,” he shared.
He acknowledges the difficulty of competing at this level, particularly for inexperienced players, but sees it as part of their development.
“There’s always pressure,” he says. “We are a young team with a lot of young players who are participating for the first time in such a competition in a very high conference, it’s normal.”
Still, his message remains anchored in confidence: “But we believe in it,” he said. “This is an opportunity for these young people to prove what they’re worth.”
For Konate, it’s what the BAL represents at its core, not just competition, but transition, growth, and opportunity. From player to coach, his journey continues, now shaped by the responsibility of guiding others through the same path he once walked himself.
WHEN great basketball careers become the top of the discussion in the African continent, the name Abdelhakim Zouita cannot be left out. The Moroccan is the embodiment of what it means to build a legacy of greatness throughout one’s playing career.
His career has spanned over 20 years, and he is still going strong. When asked about turning 40 this year, he stressed he was still far from the big four-zero. “Just 39,” laughed FUS Rabat captain Zouita. “For now, I am just 39.”
While the question factored the legend’s advancing age, it had a caveat. What made the legendary Moroccan hooper hungry and wanting more? “I want to win more titles. I want to achieve more success. To give young kids and other basketball players a good image of Moroccan basketball,” said Zouita.
There is no better ambassador of the game in Morocco and possibly Africa than Zouita, whose career has produced continental trophies for his country and former club AS Salé. On the domestic scene, he has won 10 Division Excellence and 12 Coupe de Trone titles. And he still craves more success. It’s a craving which, over the past couple of seasons, has found resonance within the FUS Rabat club.
Zouita says the desire to win is part of the club’s DNA, and that championship mentality has seen FUS win three Division Excellence titles in a row and qualify for the BAL from 2023.
“We have competitive players. Players who want to win. Players who want to take everything in Morocco. And win the biggest (club) title in Africa, the BAL. That’s it,” said Zouita.
Zouita Abdelhakim and FUS have been shaped by past experiences to be a better team at this year’s BAL. Pictures: Getty Images
Winning on the continent is something Zouita knows a thing or two about, having triumphed with Morocco at the 2023 AfroCan and nine years ago (2017) with his former club, AS Salé, he won the old FIBA Africa Champions Cup, and to cap off a memorable tournament, he got the MVP crown.
Zouita, who averaged 15.9 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 3.9 assists when Salé triumphed, could only express gratitude for helping his country and club reach the mountain top in African basketball.
“I am grateful. I have had a great career. I love basketball, and what I did for my country. I hope to give more and show basketball is big in Morocco,” said Zouita.
On winning the MVP trophy, Zouita says great team chemistry led to his individual success. “It was the group. We had about six, seven, or eight players who played together for about 10 years. That was the key,” intimated Zouita.
Back to the BAL. Morocco will host the Sahara Conference for the second time in the North African country’s capital, Rabat, and Zouita and FUS will look forward to facing Al Ahly, Club Africain, JCA Kings, AS Ville Dakar and Maktown Fliers.
Zouita believes the calibre of clubs coming to Rabat will make the conference tough. “I think this is the hardest conference. These are the biggest clubs in Africa. Clubs with good quality players,” said Zouita.
Abdelhakim Zouita won the 2017 FIBA Africa Club Championship. Picture: FIBA
Looking at the Rabat-based club’s BAL record, they navigated the conference stage quite well, but they have failed to progress beyond the last eight. Zouita says experience has been a teacher to him and his teammates, and the reinforcements added to the club have played in the BAL before, they canwhich will help make FUS a contender this year.
“We are more prepared. We have more experience because we have participated in this competition for two years. We have brought in two good players – Will Perry and Abdoulaye Harouna – they are a plus for our team,” said Zouita. “We will be good at this conference. This year we will be good.”
Zouita and FUS have always been competitors at this level, but they have to take it up a notch this year. While he still has a desire to win, he acknowledges that his window to win another continental title could be closing.
“I need to work more, I don’t want to end my career now. I want to play for a few more years. I want to have fun and enjoy the few years I have left on the court,” said Zouita. “I hope I can end my career with one more title. It will be hard. As I said, the conference in Morocco is the toughest… We will see. We will see.”
JOSHUA Ozabor explains that two years ago, while playing in South Africa’s national club championship, he was naive about how serious the competition was and what it would have meant had the team he played for won the final.
Ozabor, one of the standout players for the Johannesburg Giants in the recently concluded BAL Kalahari Conference, which ended in disappointment, says playing for the haphazardly put-together Tip-Off Sport Vikings at the 2024 national tournament was a wake-up call.
Despite being a hastily arranged outfit, the then Florsheim Ngwenya-coached Vikings made it to the final but lost to MBB, who would earn the ticket to represent South Africa at last year’s BAL. During a telephonic interview with The Big Tip Off, the athletic Ozabor, who was playing NCAA Division I basketball at the time, recalled the lesson he learned two years ago.
“Not to take anything for granted,” said Ozabor, a former Bryant University Bulldogs player. “At that time, I was still at university. I was back for like three or four weeks. I think that was the third game I was playing in that tournament. I did not know what it was for. I was close with Florsh, who asked me to come and play and get some experience. I took that final for granted. I treated it like a normal game, not understanding the ramifications.
“It taught me that no matter where you are playing or who you are playing, you always have to come with that competitive mindset to win.”
Joshua Ozabor feels the BAL showed he can get to his spots. Pictures: The BTO
The attitude adjustment showed last year, and he won. This time, it was with the less-than-a-year-old Giants, who captured the national title and had a dream run in the Road to BAL, which led to automatic qualification for this year’s BAL Season 6. Sadly for Ozabor and Co., their Kalahari Conference debut held in South Africa’s capital, Tshwane, did not go according to script.
A humbling 0-5 record saw the Giants make an early exit. Despite finishing last in the opening leg of the BAL – the Kalahari Conference – Ozabor was one of the team’s shining lights. The 23-year-old statuesque baller averaged 14.8 points, 3 assists, and 4 rebounds during the Kalahari Conference. Ozabor was second in minutes (31.9) for the Giants in the five games he played, and he hit double figures after a quiet seven points in the opening game against Dar City.
Ozabor scored 18 points vs Nairobi City Thunder, 17 points vs RSSB Tigers, 13 points vs Al Ahly Libya and 19 points vs Petro de Luanda. While he held his own in terms of points production, he feels he could have done more to improve the fortunes of the Giants.
“Individually, numbers-wise, I did pretty well,” said Ozabor. “I am my own harshest critic. I feel I could have done better. Especially in that first game, I wish I could have done more offensively and defensively.”
While the Giants’ debut BAL campaign ended disappointingly, Ozabor feels his performances can only propel him forward.
“I am grateful for the opportunity. What I did in the tournament will help progress my career,” said Ozabor. “I definitely could have done better. Especially at the free-throw line. Just overall shooting percentage-wise I could have done better.”
He did feel he was able to get to his spots and make shots. “In terms of the aspects of my game that helped. Definitely my floaters and my finishing at the rim,” said Ozabor. “I thought I did a pretty good job putting the ball in places I know I wouldn’t get blocked.”
While a tournament of this magnitude requires meticulous preparation, sadly, the Giants were found wanting in that department, as competition in South Africa is not on par with leagues in Angola, Rwanda and Libya – countries which are home to the clubs that finished in the top three of the Kalahari Conference.
Joshua Ozabor put up some good numbers at the Kalahari Conference.
Ozabor pointed to the experience factor and how it may have counted against them at the Kalahari Conference.
“I know for the most part, other than two imports (Jakobi Heady and Caleb Magua) and David Craig, the guys I was playing with, we had been together for a bit. Since last year, October,” said Ozabor. “Obviously, we are a new team. Many of these teams have played together, and as organisations, they have been around for over ten years.
“Individually, players like Nino (Dim) or Vees (Aviwe Mahlong) prepared extremely hard… As hard as they could have. We had been together since February, maybe we could have started earlier, but I think we prepared as hard as we could have for this opportunity.”
Having had the experience of facing off against high-calibre players like Childe Dundao, Nisre Zouzoua and the Jean Jacques Boissy’s of this world, how did he feel he measured up?
“The best play against the best of the best,” said Ozabor. “As a team, we never felt overwhelmed or scared. We didn’t perform to the level we should have, but we never doubted our abilities. It’s basketball at the end of the day, and there has to be a winner and a loser.
“Individually, or if I speak for myself and people like Nino and Aviwe, we feel like we are right up there with all those players. We are definitely younger and less experienced than they are, but when we step on the floor against them, we didn’t feel inadequate. We had trust in our work, our abilities and trust in God.”
Joshua Ozabor enjoyed playing in front of his friends and family.
With the Kalahari Conference being held in Pretoria, Ozabor says he enjoyed playing in front of “friends and family”.
“It was a blessing. Of course, we did not get the results we wanted, but playing in front of my friends and family is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” said Ozabor. “Every time you score a point or make a good play, you look to the side and see people that you know. The atmosphere as well… Seeing the fans there cheering… The overall excitement in the air. It was overwhelming at times and just a blessing to be a part of.”
The BAL season may have ended earlier than expected for Ozabor and the Giants, but his performances on that stage were surely enough to attract potential suitors for his services.
While there isn’t anything concrete yet about his future, Ozabor is taking everything in and hopes he does not have to wait too long to be rewarded for his talents.
“My family and I are still deciding that right now. By God’s grace, I’ll progress in my career. Whatever continent or country that is… We are still processing everything…. Still making decisions about who I want to do that with. By God’s grace, I’ll know soon enough. I am just grateful to Jesus Christ for having had the opportunity, which I had,” said Ozabor.
It is clear Ozabor moves by faith. With his added maturity brought by experience, he will be able to navigate obstacles on and off the court.
GERSON Gonçalves, Aboubakar Gakou, and Childe Dundão; three names that have become synonymous with excellence across the Basketball Africa League. Shooting, playmaking, defensive intensity, control, and that unmistakable Angolan flair, but none of this was guaranteed.
In another life, they are a doctor. A chemical engineer. A civil engineer.
Structured paths. Certain futures. Instead, they chose a different kind of pursuit; one that demanded just as much discipline, precision, and intent. Stepping into an institution already rich in history at Petro de Luanda, they have become central to the club’s evolution.
It is within that balance, between legacy and reinvention, that this Petro core has defined itself. And during the recently concluded Kalahari Conference, The Big Tip Off caught up with the group to unpack what sustains their dominance: the spirit, the system, and the shared understanding that continues to set them apart.
A culture that sustains itself
Across Africa, soccer dominates as the continent’s most popular sport, but in Angola, basketball has long held the spotlight. The country has produced a string of stars, cultivated a storied tradition of excellence, and built a reputation for teams and players who consistently compete at the highest levels. You can feel it in packed arenas, neighbourhood courts, and the rhythm of every street game, a pulse that runs through the nation.
To understand Petro is to understand that environment, where basketball is more than a sport; it is a standard, a language, a way of life.
“Basketball is the most important sport in Angola,” Gakou explained. “Young people grow up loving the game.” It is a culture built not only on success, but also on aspiration, visibility, creating opportunities, and excellence, inspiring the next generation.
Every practice, tournament, and street pickup game carries echoes of the players who came before, and the influence of decorated figures is tangible.
Childe Dundão is the on-court brain of the Petro team. Picture: The BTO
The standard and the target
Sustained success inevitably shifts perception. Petro de Luanda are no longer chasing – they have become the standard.
“Yes, of course,” Gakou said when asked if they are the team to beat. “If other teams want to be great in the BAL, they have to beat Petro first. That’s why we have a target on our backs.”
That awareness doesn’t come with discomfort – it comes with clarity. Petro knows exactly where they stand within the league, and more importantly, what that position demands. Having competed in every BAL season without fail, played more games than any other club, and reached the semi-finals in each of the first five editions, winning the championship once, finishing second twice, claiming bronze, and taking fourth, they are the standard by which others measure themselves.
Pressure, in that sense, is not an exception to their experience; it is part of it. “In basketball, there is always pressure,” Gakou explained. “Every night we step on the court, there is pressure. But we are used to it.”
Rather than resist it, Petro has absorbed pressure into their process. The expectation to win has become routine, and it, in turn, has become their advantage. “Every practice is about being ready for the game,” Gonçalves added. It is this consistency in preparation, rather than moments of brilliance, that has allowed them to maintain their dominance across seasons.
Being the team everyone targets brings constant pressure: intense scrutiny, high expectations, and the need to prove your excellence again every single night. For Petro, that is not a burden; it is part of the standard they set, and one they uphold.
Living the legacy
What makes Petro’s current moment unique is that the past is not separate from the present; it exists alongside it. For this Petro core, that connection is deeply personal. “We grew up watching players like Carlos Morais,” he shared. “That’s what shaped us.”
Morais himself was a key part of Petro de Luanda until the end of the BAL’s fourth season, helping the club secure the championship. Throughout his career, he has achieved success – securing four AfroBasket titles, a FIBA Africa Clubs Champions Cup, and a BAL title; a legacy of excellence that continues to set the standard for the current core.
“I grew up watching those players,” Gakou reflected. “Now we are in the same locker room. I didn’t dream of that.”
Alongside Morais, Olimpio Cipriano, now part of the coaching staff, brings his own decorated legacy, with four AfroBasket medals and five FIBA Africa Clubs Champions Cup titles. Together, they are not just symbols of the past; they are active contributors to the present.
“It means a lot,” Gonçalves shared. “We have a big responsibility to be here and to do great things.”
These standards are not merely remembered; they are actively lived and reinforced each day by those who helped establish them. “That’s why our mentality is tough,” Childe Dundão added.
For this group, legacy is not something to reflect on later; it is something they are actively participating in now, a continuation of a culture that sustains itself and defines what it means to be the best.
Gerson Goncalves provides calm during the storm for Petro.
When winning means more
If the Season 4 BAL title validated Petro’s status, last August’s AfroBasket reshaped their perspective. After 12 long years without a continental crown, Angola reclaimed the AfroBasket title, winning it for the 12th time and cementing its place as the country with the most championships. That 12-year gap made this victory particularly elusive, a reminder that even the most prolific teams face moments of challenge, expectation, and the weight of history.
In a fairytale run, the national team went undefeated at home, playing in front of packed arenas every night. The roar of 12,000 fans made it feel like every opponent was facing the full weight of the nation, not just the 12 players on the court. The energy, the expectation, and the pride intertwined, creating a stage that elevated every play, every defensive stop, every fast break.
“For our generation, we hadn’t won anything with the national team,” Gonçalves explained. “So it meant a lot, for us and for the whole country.”
The difference was not just in the result, but in the context in which it occurred. Playing at home transformed the experience into something collective, a shared triumph that extended far beyond the players themselves. It was about connection, between teammates, fans, and the nation.
“We saw the people supporting us,” he said. “At a time when the country wasn’t doing so well, we were able to give them joy. To make them believe.”
That moment reframed what winning meant. It shifted from a personal or team achievement to something deeper: a responsibility to inspire, to lift spirits, and to leave a mark beyond the court. It was a reminder that basketball, at its best, is not just about trophies – it can also lift a nation’s morale.
And when they returned to Petro, they carried that shift with them. “We came back with the same energy, the same focus,” he said. “To do the same thing.”
Growth in parallel
For Childe Dundão, the evolution of Petro de Luanda mirrors his own. “When I was young, I was just trying to play,” he shared. “But when I grew up, my goals changed. I started to take the game more seriously, to become a better professional.”
His path wasn’t guided by early certainty, but shaped through a gradual process of realisation. “I don’t think it’s what I imagined,” he admitted when asked about whether he had thought he would become AfroBasket MVP and now lead as captain. “But I’ve grown into it.”
Standing at 5 ft 6, Dundão’s success has not always been a given; it has been built through repetition, consistency, and an environment that demands progression without forcing it. That growth is now evident in his production.
During the Kalahari Conference this season, he averaged a team-high 18.8 points per game, along with five assists and 2 steals, a significant leap from Season 5, where he averaged 6 points, 4.8 assists, and 1.2 steals per game.
Time, continuity, and simplicity
The nature of the BAL means that compressed conference windows leave little room for adjustment, and a byproduct of this is that time and chemistry become currency, and few teams possess both quite like Petro does.
“We’ve been together for more than six years,” Gonçalves shared. “That chemistry is the key.”
In a league where roster turnover is common and continuity rare, that stability has become their greatest asset. For Petro, chemistry is not an abstract concept that they have ever had to scramble to build, and it has been evident in their on-court decision-making, spacing, and trust.
“We know where to find each other,” he explained. “We know everyone’s spots, I know that Abou will be in the corner. Everything is already understood.”
That understanding removes hesitation. It allows Petro’s players to play instinctively, to move without overthinking, and to trust without second-guessing. It also explains why Petro can translate domestic success into continental performance, a challenge which can be a stumbling block for many teams.
And yet, despite everything they have achieved, there is no sense of reinvention. “Not much has changed,” Gakou reflected. “The base is still here, and we know that if we defend well, we will win,” he said.
This philosophy strips the game back to its essentials, removing complexity in favour of execution. And in that simplicity lies their strength.
Aboubabakar Gakou is a two-way threat for Petro de Luanda.
What they leave behind
For all the systems, structure, and success, the question of legacy remains central. What has Petro de Luanda truly built? Internally, the answer has always been clear.
“It’s the spirit of the team. We are very united, and we play as a team. That’s our identity,” shared Gonçalves. “We don’t play to separate; we play together. Everyone plays for each other.” From the outside, Petro’s dominance appears to be a result of consistency. However, from within, it is something far more deliberate, something constructed with patience.
When asked how they wanted the Petro group to be remembered, the answer came without hesitation: “The most consistent team in the BAL,” shared Dundão with conviction, while Gakou added, “The best team of all time.”
It is an ambitious statement, but it is not an empty one. For Petro, this has never been solely about winning in the moment. It has always been about building something that lasts.
THE Kalahari Conference has highlighted the BAL’s depth of talent across every position. However, based on the opening stretch of games, Nisre Zouzoua has already made a strong case to be recognised among the standout performers of the opening leg.
The Ivorian guard, now in his second BAL campaign with Dar City, has played a central role in the East African side’s early success. Notably, he stands out as the only player on the roster with prior BAL experience, a distinction that has quietly shaped both his influence and responsibility within the group.
Adding to Zouzoua’s experience is a DarCity coaching staff with a proven track record at the highest level of the competition. Head coach Pabi Gueye, the 2023 BAL Coach of the Year, previously led AS Douanes to the finals, while assistant coach Nabil Kabalan was part of the staff that guided Al Ahli Tripoli to the Season 5 title.
Zouzoua’s journey with Dar City, however, began before the main stage. After featuring for FUS Rabat last season, he joined the club ahead of the Road to BAL qualifiers. Although Dar City fell short in the semi-finals, a wildcard would guarantee their entry to the continental showpiece. While much of the local core remained intact, Zouzoua emerged as the only import to carry that journey through, from qualification to this season’s BAL. It’s a decision that would come to define both his role and his connection to the team.
Finishing What They Started
For Zouzoua, returning was not a foregone conclusion. After a campaign that would end short of qualification, there were different paths he could have taken following his first experience in the Basketball Africa League. Instead, he chose continuity, committing himself to a Dar City side still in the early stages of its journey, and one that had only just begun to show what it could become.
“When I first got there, I didn’t really know what to expect,” he shared. “But honestly, just developing the bond that I got with the guys that were there, the coaching staff and the president, I felt like I just wanted to finish what we started.”
Nisre Zouzoua has been impressive for DarCity at the Kalahari Conference. Pictures: The BTO
At just three years of existence, the East African club is still defining its identity. For Zouzoua, that presented something more compelling than certainty: the opportunity to be part of a story in progress. That decision reflects the belief in the project and a desire to be part of something larger than a single season.
“Just a chance to honestly do something for the first time in that country, to help them qualify for the BAL would be something special to me,” he added. “To be a part of history.”
Responsibility and Trust
Being the only returning import has naturally expanded his role within the group. Beyond his production, he has taken on the responsibility of anchoring a group still finding its rhythm, serving as a point of connection between new imports, the local core, and the realities of the Basketball Africa League.
That role is not only about experience, it is also about translation: of expectations, of style, and of the demands that come with competing at this level.
“I’ve had to take on more responsibility,” he explained. “But my teammates encouraged me, my coaches encouraged me, it’s honestly just been fun being able to help the other imports and give them expectations of what it’s going to be like.”
In many ways, his relationship with head coach Pabi Gueye reinforces that responsibility, giving structure to his role while still allowing room for expression.
“He’s hard on me. He holds me accountable,” Zouzoua said. “But he also gives me the freedom to be me on the basketball court.”
It is within that balance, accountability on one end and trust on the other, that Zouzoua has found clarity. Clarity in how he plays, in how he leads, understanding when to assert himself and when to operate within the flow of the team.
Chemistry by Design
On the court, that sense of connection and trust has translated into production, most notably in Zouzoua’s partnership with David Benoit. In a short space of time, the two have developed a rhythm that feels both natural and deliberate, with an ability to shift responsibility depending on the moment.
In the opening game, Benoit’s all-around performance, 27 points, 9 assists, and 5 steals, complemented Zouzoua’s 35-point display, balancing creation and scoring. That dynamic shifted in the next outing, with Benoit taking on a heavier scoring load (39 points), as Zouzoua adjusted, contributing 20 points and five rebounds and helping with the playmaking duties. Even in their first loss, that structure remained evident, despite Zouzoua’s rhythm being disrupted by early foul trouble.
For Zouzoua, that balance is not accidental. It is rooted in a mindset that prioritises decision-making over individual output and ensuring that he doesn’t get too high or too low.
“I’m just trying to make the right play on each possession,” he said. “I try not to get overly high in those moments, just take everything possession by possession.”
When asked about nearing a single-game scoring record, he paused and laughed at the idea of chasing it.
“I figured it out with like four minutes left but I didn’t want to start forcing it,” he added. “If it’s supposed to happen, it’ll happen.”
Nisre Zouzoua played for FUS Rabat in his first BAL in 2025.
A Culture That Travels
Beyond tactics and rotations, Dar City’s identity has been shaped by its culture, one that extends beyond the players on the floor and into the way the group carries itself as a collective. In a league like the Basketball Africa League, playing in a city like Pretoria, crowd support is rarely guaranteed, especially against the home team. Yet, in those moments, Dar City has managed to create something of a home away from home.
“It means everything to us,” Zouzoua said. “That just goes to show the type of culture we have, the family culture that they’ve built.”
Teammates not on the 12-man roster still travelled, still showed up, still invested in the outcome, reinforcing a sense of unity that has become central to the team’s identity. Even in an away environment, that presence carries weight.
“In a game versus Johannesburg, they have the home court advantage, but to look back and see people behind our bench rooting for us, it means a lot.”
Lessons and Margins
This culture is more than just a feel-good story to Zouzoua. It is the foundation for sustained success in a league as competitive as the Basketball Africa League. Having previously played for FUS Rabat, he knows how fine the margins can be.
“I really admired how those guys played together. There wasn’t a team full of huge egos,” he reflected. “Just learning to play together, be together.”
That lesson has carried into this Dar City group, shaping how he and the team approach each game.
“I feel like the teams that stay together, those are the teams that advance,” Zouzoua said. “Basketball is a game of runs, and with so many games in a short time, that’s a lot of runs.” Off-court preparation is equally critical. With a strong start behind them and the playoffs within arm’s reach, the focus remains internal.
“I believe we’re capable of achieving anything,” he said. “As long as we take everything one game at a time, the sky’s the limit.”
For Zouzoua and Dar City, the story is still unfolding. However, if the early signs are anything to go by, the conversations about them are no longer just about potential. They instead shift to a team, and a player, intent on finishing what they started, united by a culture that makes every teammate, every supporter, and every possession count.
THE last time Axel Mpoyo stepped onto the floor at SunBet Arena in Pretoria, South Africa, he delivered one of the defining performances of Season 5 of the BAL; an electric 8-for-9 shooting display from beyond the arc to secure APR BBC and Rwanda’s first-ever BAL podium finish.
It was a masterclass that had Tracy McGrady on his feet on the sidelines, as the arena buzzed with an energy that felt far bigger than a third-place game. For a moment, it felt as though Rwanda had won it all.
But beyond the spectacle, it signalled something deeper: a nation beginning to understand how to compete, and succeed, on this stage.
In an interview with The Big Tip Off, Mpoyo shared that his recent performance was more than just about the numbers. He said, “That game was one where I found a great rhythm, and everything was going in. I have to thank my teammates for getting me the ball in the right spots.”
He added, “It meant a lot for Rwanda. We showed that we can play at a high level. It gave our fans hope that we can make an impact in this tournament.”
This moment set the stage for a season in which APR BBC could get closer to the number one spot, building on last year’s progress and proving that Rwanda can compete at the top level.
A Season Built for One Goal
Coming into the new season, APR BBC appeared to be a team with unfinished business. Fresh off a Rwandan league title, the organisation made significant signings, moves that pointed clearly toward one ambition: to win the Basketball Africa League and bring the trophy home to Kigali. But just weeks before that vision could materialise, everything changed. APR BBC withdrew from the competition.
Axel Mpoyo delivered a shooting exhibition in last year’s BAL third-place game. Pictures: The BTO
In its place came the RSSB Tigers; a new identity, but with familiar faces. Head coach James Maye transitioned into the Tigers’ setup, alongside a core of APR players, including Mpoyo. The sudden shift raised questions. About continuity. About preparation. And disrupted momentum. For Mpoyo, the experience was as abrupt as it was challenging. “It wasn’t easy, it caught me off guard, but it was out of our control,” said Mpoyo. Yet, within that uncertainty, there was clarity.
“In this sport and in life, things happen. You’ve got to be ready to adjust and stay ready,” he intimated.
Representing Rwanda
When the opportunity arose to remain in the Basketball Africa League through the RSSB Tigers, the decision for Axel Mpoyo and several of his former teammates was rooted in something deeper than circumstance.
“First and foremost, representing Rwanda was a big part of our decision, and getting the chance to play in the BAL… We don’t take that for granted.”
It speaks to a broader sense of purpose, one that extends beyond club allegiances. For APR’s core, this served as a way for Rwanda to preserve continuity, identity and ambition, which is crucial as the BAL continues to grow exponentially and pivots towards establishing franchises.
“This league is going to be one of the best in the world.” And Rwanda is intent on growing with it.
Shared Foundations, Aligned Vision
Despite the team change, much of APR’s influence remains embedded within the Tigers. The carryover is not just in personnel, but in mindset. “We just bring that championship mentality, that intensity, that togetherness,” said Mpoyo.
That foundation, built through APR’s run to a podium finish last season, has helped accelerate RSSB’s adjustment to the BAL stage. It has also shaped how the group approaches pressure, preparation, and expectations.
Equally important has been the blend of leadership on the sidelines. Former APR head coach James Maye has joined forces with RSSB’s Henry Mwinuka, creating a dual-coaching dynamic that has, so far, delivered balance rather than friction.
“They complement each other well; they both understand the game at a high level and can relate to players,” he says. It’s a partnership that mirrors the team itself, with different backgrounds and a shared vision.
Axel Mpoyo has given the Tigers quality minutes coming off the bench.
Chemistry Under Pressure Silencing Doubt
Perhaps the most impressive aspect of the RSSB Tigers’ start is how they quickly fused and find themselves 2-0 in the Kalahari Conference. With limited preparation time, their cohesion has had less to do with structure and focused more on shared understanding. “The chemistry is growing every day. We didn’t have a lot of time, but we’re all on the same page,” said Mpoyo.
In a short time, the team has established an identity rooted in trust, resilience, and accountability. “We’ve got each other’s backs, there’s no pressure. We’re going to make mistakes, but we pick each other up.”
That internal clarity has created freedom on the court and an environment where players are encouraged to play instinctively and without hesitation.
“When everybody can be themselves and play freely, it helps the team go further.”
And that freedom has translated directly into performance, which was evident in the statement win over Petro de Luanda, where the Tigers battled until the final moments to secure an 82–78 victory, an indicator of both their resilience and collective belief. If there were any lingering doubts about Rwanda’s presence in Season 6, RSSB’s opening games have answered them emphatically with two wins, built on cohesion and collective execution, from a team that looks far more settled than its circumstances would suggest.
Adaptability as Identity
For Mpoyo, the approach to the season is measured, his goals simple and grounded. “I’m just taking it game by game and trying to be as consistent as I can,” he said. “Everybody has the same goal: to keep the trophy in Kigali.”
It’s a goal tied to something bigger than basketball, a sense of pride that runs deeper than the court. “It’s been a blessing to represent Rwanda, and I don’t take it for granted.” Those early performances have only reinforced the belief within the group. “It felt really good and showed us what we can do if we play together,” reflected Mpoyo. “It gave us confidence. We know we have a lot more work to do, but we have the potential to make a run.”
Through the highs of last season and the uncertainty of this one, Mpoyo has discovered something fundamental, not just about the game, but about himself: “I’ve learned that I can adjust to multiple situations.”
In a tournament defined by change, that adaptability has become both his and the team’s defining identity.
THE Libyan champions, Al Ahly Benghazi, endured a nightmare start to their Basketball Africa League season campaign, dropping their first two games in the Kalahari Conference and raising early concerns about an early exit from the tournament.
However, a dominant performance in their third game of the Kalahari Conference has reignited their playoff hopes and reminded everyone that their pedigree remains very much intact.
For a team that arrived in South Africa as one of the favourites, with former MVPs Jean Jacques Boissy (2025) and Jo-Lual Acuil (2024) as defensive anchors, and a perfect Road to BAL qualifying record, Al Ahly’s first two games of the BAL season felt like identity theft.
First, they conceded 103 points to RSSB Tigers on opening night. Then came another collapse against Petro de Luanda, where they lost 104-90, leaving them at 0–2 and staring at elimination.
Their 118-9 win against Dar City on Tuesday night changed their fortunes.
Six Players in Double Figures
Six players scored in double figures. Led by Damion Baugh, who finished with 18 assists, a new BAL single-game record, along with 16 points.
Ahmed Soliman will have been relieved with his team’s first win of the Kalahari Conference. Pictures: The BTO and Getty
South Sudan’s Acuil had a dominant double-double in the paint, alongside compatriot Majok Deng, who delivered an efficient 22-point performance. Donovan Williams added perimeter firepower, while Jean Jacques Boissy, the reigning MVP, embraced the sixth-man role with 18 points in just 19 minutes.
Currently, five players are averaging double digits.
What Changed in Game 3?
In the first two games, Al Ahly Ly relied heavily on Baugh as a scorer. Against Dar City, he transitioned into a facilitator role, allowing the offence to circulate through his playmaking. They recorded 28 assists in total, an improvement from their previous outings, where they had 24 in the first game and 14 in the second.
Bench production jumped from 21 points against RSSB Tigers to 32 against Dar City. Turnovers also decreased significantly from 10 in the opening fixture and 17 in the following fixture to just seven on Tuesday.
Another key difference was bench scoring: They recorded 32 points off the bench, compared to Dar City’s 18. Speaking to the media after the game, head coach Ahmed Soliman emphasised the adjustments made following their slow start.
“After the first two games, we sat down and focused on our weaknesses,” he said. “Offensively, we needed more teamwork and chemistry, and I think we showed that today.”
He also highlighted the defensive effort, particularly against Dar City’s key threat. “I liked the defence as well. Mohamed Sadi and Boissy did a great job on number six (David Michineau).”
For Soliman, the performance reflected the kind of balance his team is capable of. “When you have players who can contribute both offensively and defensively, it’s great for us.”
They seem to have found the formula; now they have to trust it. They must sustain this offensive balance rather than reverting to isolation basketball when pressure mounts.
Feeding their big men is key, as Acuil and Deng combined for 42 points on 17/28 shooting. And Boissy must build on his rediscovered confidence; the MVP cannot afford another 5-point outing as he did against the Tigers if this team truly aspires to lift the trophy in Kigali.
Jean Jacques Boissy blitzed to an 18-point performance on Tuesday night.
Playoff Hopes
The win moves Al Ahly Ly to 1–2 in the Kalahari Conference standings, still precarious but breathing. With four teams advancing to Kigali from each conference, the path back to the playoffs, once appearing treacherous, now seems navigable.
Yet the margin for error remains slim. At 1-2, they are tied with Dar City and trail the conference leaders, meaning every remaining game carries playoff implications.
To secure one of those four precious spots in Kigali, Al Ahly must treat their remaining conference games as elimination contests, building on the offensive chemistry and defensive intensity that finally surfaced in Game 3.
THE Johannesburg Giants have endured a difficult start to their Basketball Africa League Season 6 campaign, going winless in the Kalahari Conference. However, they still have a chance to reach the playoffs in Kigali this May – though that opportunity is quickly slipping away.
Knowing that their backs are against the wall after their 71–65 defeat to Nairobi City Thunder (NCT) on Sunday, coach Florsheim Ngwenya will be figuring out how to dig his Giants out of a 0-2 hole.
Unlike their 100–70 loss at the hands of Dar City in their opener, this was a game the Giants were firmly in. They matched NCT possession-for-possession, fought through momentum swings, and gave themselves a genuine chance deep into the fourth quarter.
But in any basketball game, being close isn’t enough.
Giants struggled against sharpshooters
In the loss to DarCity last Friday, the Giants could not contain Côte D’Ivoire shooting guard Nisre Zouzoua, who scored 35 points, 24 of them from the three-point line.
Their defensive woes against shooters continued a few days later. City Thunder’s South Sudanese forward Garang Diing also had a field day from the arc against the Giants. Diing caught fire in the fourth quarter, pouring in 12 of his game-high 24 points, which guided the Thunder to victory.
Nino Dim and his teammates know they have to get their act together. Pictures: The BTO
While the Giants can take credit for the defensive intensity and improved offensive execution that fuelled their comeback, their inability to deliver in the clutch once again proved costly. The late-game struggles – so often the difference in tight contests – left the Johannesburg side winless and anchored in sixth place
Head coach Ngwenya acknowledged the improvement from the opening game but pointed to key details that ultimately cost his side.
“We showed more fight than in the first game, but it came down to a couple of mistakes,” Ngwenya said. “I thought we prepared well on both defence and offence, but one of the things that disrupted our rhythm was their offensive rebounding. They finished with 15, and that made a big difference.”
However, Giants centre Nkosinathi Sibanyoni delivered a commanding performance on the boards, finishing with 17 total rebounds in a strong individual effort despite the result. Ngwenya admitted the team now faces a shift in approach as they fight to stay alive in the competition.
“The script changes completely now from what we initially planned. We have to go back, reassess, identify weaknesses in the other teams, and prepare properly for the last three games.”
The former Cape Town Tigers coach also highlighted the experience gap between his side and more established opponents.
“We are battle-tested in our own way, but some of these teams come from more consistent leagues. For us, this is the first time playing together at this level in a competition like this,” said Ngwenya. “I believe with every game, we are making progress.”
Coach Florsheim Ngwenya will have to use every trick in the book to revive the Giants’ BAL campaign.
What This Means
With the tournament now entering its decisive phase, the Giants find themselves in a precarious position that threatens to derail their historic BAL debut before it can truly take shape.
At 0-2 and at the bottom of the six-team standings, the South African champions have exhausted their margin for error at an alarming pace – each remaining fixture is now effectively a must-win, with a single defeat enough to end their playoff hopes.
With only three group-stage games remaining and the leading teams beginning to separate themselves, Ngwenya faces the urgent task of restoring the defensive discipline and offensive cohesion that powered their qualification campaign.
Failure to do so could see the Giants’ continental journey end prematurely. For a club that has invested heavily in a professional structure and stepped onto the continental stage within a year of formation, an early exit would represent a significant setback to their broader ambitions.
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