(KIGALI) On Wednesday night, the Basketball Africa League (BAL) semi-finals produced two thrilling encounters (Rivers Hoopers vs Al Ahly Benghazi; Cape Town Tigers vs Petro de Luanda), which saw Petro and Al Ahly win in overtime.
In an electrifying match, Petro de Luanda secured a hard-fought 96-86 victory over the Cape Town Tigers in overtime. Both teams played relentlessly, leading to numerous lead changes and a dramatic finish that left fans on the edge of their seats.
The Tigers started strong, leading 16-15 at the end of the first quarter. Both teams demonstrated solid defence and efficient ball movement, keeping the game tight. However, foul trouble for the Tigers in the second quarter allowed Petro to gain a foothold.
With 7:40 left in the second quarter, back-to-back corner threes from Nicholas Faust put Petro up by six points. A turnover followed by an uncontested three extended their lead, making it 28-21 by halftime.
Nkosinathi Sibanyoni drives to the rim while being guarded by Markieff Cummins in the BAL semi-final on Wednesday. Pictures: The BAL
The final quarter was a nail-biter, with the Tigers managing to tie the game at 77-77, thanks to Samkelo Cele’s clutch free throws, forcing the game into overtime. Petro’s resilience and tactical execution were evident as they outscored the Tigers 19-9, sealing their victory.
Petro’s Captain Carlos Morais praised the efforts of guard Samkelo Cele. “I love Samkelo, he is a great competitor, and from the last season, he has been growing and he is playing unbelievably. Coming into this game, the goal was to stop Cele because he is their best scorer and we respect him, I think he is gonna keep growing, he has a bright future.”
Coach Florsheim Ngwenya reflected on his team’s performance throughout the competition. “Congratulations to my guys because this is huge. Being at this stage of the competition gives everyone hope. We have done the impossible – it proves that South Africa has talent. However, how we organize the talent moving forward is important.
Petro will face Al Ahly Libya in the Finals on Saturday, and it’s a match-up that Morais looks forward to. “It’s going to be a battle, Solo Diabate is my good friend but it is gonna be a battle. I will try to not let him get the third one [title] and he will definitely try to stop me from getting my first one [title], but we are going to be ready to compete. I am sure it is going to be a good final.”
In the first semi-final of the day, Al Ahly Libya defeated The Rivers Hoopers 89-83, securing their spot in the finals. Al Ahly started the game strong offensively, finishing the first quarter with a 27-21 lead. By halftime, they had extended their advantage to 48-37, taking advantage of Rivers Hoopers’ turnovers and foul troubles.
Despite early struggles, the Rivers Hoopers displayed good ball movement and teamwork. However, three of their starters got into foul trouble, which impacted them down the stretch.
Jeremy Golden directs traffic for Al Ahly Benghazi during the BAL semi-final against Rivers Hoopers.
Al Ahly Coach Ivan Jermic commented, “On paper, they are better than us, but statistics lie. Only their free-throw shooting was different. They shot 45% from the free throw line, and I think that is what determined the game.”
The third quarter saw a remarkable comeback from the Rivers Hoopers. Will Perry sparked the revival with back-to-back three-pointers, bringing his team within two points. The Rivers Hoopers continued their momentum into the fourth quarter, briefly taking an eight-point lead with six minutes remaining. However, Al Ahly fought back to tie the game and push it into overtime, ultimately securing their victory.
Coach Ogoh Odaudu says they consumed energy trying to close the score. “I think we spent a lot of energy trying to get back into the game. We dug ourselves out of a 14-point hole, but what’s done is done.” Despite the loss, Odaudu was pleased with his team’s efforts. “I am proud of our team. We hold our heads high. Nobody believed in us, but we are here. Unfortunately, our fairytale run has come to an end, but the third-place game still means a lot to us, and we are ready for it.”
KIGALI – The highly anticipated BAL (Basketball Africa League) playoffs officially tip off later today (Friday) at BK Arena. The Big Tip Off reflects on the conference play and previews the eight teams ahead of the seeding games.
Cape Town Tigers
The Tigers had a rocky start to their home debut during the Kalahari Conference, managing a single win against Petro de Luanda in their penultimate game of conference play. In that game (against Petro), the South African champions showed sparks of their potential. The Tigers also shared the ball better and reduced turnovers.
Several players demonstrated they could shoot the ball well and draw contact to put their opponents in the penalty. The Tigers sometimes seemed too reliant on “iso” plays despite it being ineffective in certain stretches of play. They also struggled to defend at the three-point line, and their average of 37.2 total rebounds per game compared to their opponents’ 45.0 total rebounds per game led to them giving up second-chance opportunities to their opponents in the paint.
Samkelo Cele is a vital contributor to the Tigers, and a solid team player when needed to fulfil certain roles. As the leading scorer for the team, Cele showcased his ability with an average of 20.5 points per game. Additionally, he led the team with 2.3 steals per game.
Samkelo Cele has been the fulcrum for the Tigers in offence and defence. Pictures: FIBA Africa
The Tigers are one of the six teams who have made roster changes ahead of the BAL playoffs. The likes of Billy Preston, co-captain Lebesa Selepe and rookie Storm Gilchrist are no longer with the team. However, the additions of former Dynamo BBC guard Dheiu Deing, former Stade Malien forward Brian Bridgeforth and centre Mouhamadou Ndoye could stabilise the South African team.
AS Douanes
The Senegal club had a mixed performance throughout the Sahara Conference. A loss of concentration down the stretch in games proved costly as they suffered three losses. However, their three wins, including a buzzer-beater by Mike Fofana with three seconds left in the game against Rivers Hoopers, showcased that the Senegalese champions can compete and win against the best of them.
AS Douanes struggled shooting the ball, averaging 33% from the field and 23.7% from beyond the arc. However, they averaged 16.8 offensive rebounds, giving them second-chance opportunities to put numbers on the scoreboard.
Abdoulaye Harouna was AS Douanes’ key player. Harouna struggled to find his footing in the first game, scoring only eight points, but bounced back with a 35-point performance against US Monastir in their second game. In the end, Harouna led the team with 17.6 points per game. His ability to disrupt the opponent’s defence led to an average of 3.6 steals per game, fuelling some much-needed transition offence in stretches when AS Douanes struggled to convert.
AS Douanes maintained their roster ahead of the BAL playoffs – they have the momentum from the Sahara Conference, but can it lead to an appearance in the final?
Al Ahly Egypt
Al Ahly finished at the top of the Nile Conference once again. But the reigning BAL champs, who have exhibited a composed demeanour found themselves a little shaken on a few occasions, including their upset loss to Uganda’s City Oilers.
To their credit, Al Ahly’s depth and versatility across all positions allowed them to aggressively attack their opponents, giving them comfortable leads in games. The Egyptian giants excelled in rebounding, averaging 43.8 total rebounds per game, indicating strong performance on both ends of the court.
Can Ehab Amin lead Egyptian giants Al Ahly to a second BAL title?
The Egyptian Champions’ defence proved effective as they managed to hold their opponents to an average of 78.3 points per game and forced turnovers at a rate of 13.3 per game.
Ehab Amin led the charge for Al Ahly with 13.5 points per game. It may seem like a low number, but it showcased Al Ahly’s depth in offence. Against Bangui Sporting Club, Amin delivered a clutch three-pointer in the final minutes to seal Al Ahly’s 85-79 win. The guard led the team in rebounding.
The reigning champions have replaced Marwan Sahran and Ahmed Moheib with Omar Azab and Seifeldin Saied.
Petro de Luanda
The Angolans had a disappointing Kalahari Conference campaign despite clinching one of the automatic qualifications for Kigali. Petro, usually strong during the regular season, suffered two losses in regular season play.
Historically, Petro is a team that excels at moving the ball well and creating opportunities to showcase their ability to shoot from beyond the arc and stretch the floor. However, this season, they struggled and could not adjust as expected. Despite their offensive struggles, Petro maintained a competitive defensive presence by limiting their opponents’ shooting percentages and rebounding numbers. Their ability to limit opponents’ scoring opportunities and force turnovers contributes to their defensive effectiveness.
Childe Dundao was the standout player for the Angolan side, and his 25-point performance was crucial in their must-win game in the second round against FUS Rabat. The guard averaged 13.5 points per game, 3.5 assists per game, and shot 37% from the three-point line. Dundao, part of last season’s BAL All-Defensive Team, was able to disrupt the opponents’ offence and use his speed to push the ball and create transition scoring opportunities for Petro.
The Angolan champions have possibly made the biggest adjustment to their team, replacing coach Jose Neto with Sergio Moreno. Anthony Nelson and Edmir Lucas were replaced by guard Nicholas Faust and forward Clesio Castro. Castro will help to provide a strong interior presence, while Faust will be an additional scoring option.
The Moroccan club were the Kalahari Conference’s most exciting team. FUS showcased their versatility as each player stepped on the floor.
FUS was able to maximise scoring opportunities through their shot selection as well as offensive execution. This is reflected in their 46.4% field goal percentage. The Moroccan champions’ strong rebounding presence at both ends of the floor limited opponents’ second-chance opportunities.
Johnathan Jordan was a factor in FUS’ success. The guard averaged the most minutes played for the team, averaging two personal fouls per game. A good facilitator, Jordan averaged 4.5 assists per game, and his ability to convert, as he led the team’s scoring with an average of 16.3 points.
FUS have made no changes to their team as they will head into the BAL playoffs as they look to continue their dominance.
Al Ahly Libya
Al Ahly Benghazi’s debut in the Nile Conference saw them display individual brilliance and collective effort. Their balanced scoring, efficient shooting, strong rebounding, and disciplined play were hallmarks of their campaign. With solid contributions from their starters and bench, Al Ahly Benghazi showed that they are a well-rounded and resilient team capable of competing at a high level.
Throughout the regular season, Al Ahly Benghazi demonstrated a balanced scoring approach with five players averaging in double digits. This balanced attack made them less predictable and more challenging for opponents to defend. The team’s dominance in rebounding at the offence end provided crucial second-chance opportunities, allowing them to remain a threat in the paint. Al Ahly Benghazi also excelled in maintaining possession, resulting in minimized turnovers.
Jo Acuil was the standout player not only for Al Ahly, but he also gave a standout performance in the final regular season game against the City Oilers. In that game, Acuil set the BAL record for the most points scored (42). Throughout the Nile Conference, Acuil maintained a consistently high level of play, averaging a double-double. His regular season averages were 23 points per game and 10.5 rebounds per game. He is a dual threat as both a prolific scorer and a formidable rebounder, making him an asset for the Libyan club. Acuil is a defensive pillar with great shot-blocking ability, rim protection and can alter shots.
The Libyan champions let go of their primary point guard, Pierre Jackson and Anees Almansouri and brought in Omar Aldirfeeli and Robert Wilson Golden. The loss of Jackson, who was a key contributor in his scoring, pushing the ball up the floor, could prove detrimental to them in the BAL playoffs.
Rivers Hoopers
Rivers Hoopers had a strong debut in the Sahara conference, remaining undefeated in the first round of the competition. But they would suffer two defeats later. The first was a buzzer-beater in a game against AS Douanes and the other because of visible fatigue in the final fixture against US Monastir. The last game saw star point guard Will Perry get a DNP.
At a glance, there is not much difference between the Hoopers’ and their opponents statistically. But it came down to their team chemistry, a component which many other teams have struggled to find so far this season. The Hoopers demonstrated their cohesive team dynamic. They have a balanced distribution of responsibilities and scoring support from Will Perry, Devine Eke, Kelvin Amayo, and Peter Olisemeka, who were able to step up for the team on any given night.
Perry emerged as the primary scorer and facilitator for the team, averaging 18.6 points per game and 5.4 assists. His efficiency in shooting the ball from beyond the arc made him a threat to the opponents but also allowed the Hoopers to spread the floor and make big shots while also getting some good looks for his teammates.
The Nigerian side let go of Michael Daramola and brought Victor Damiola Mohammed. Mohammed is no stranger to the tournament following his time with the Kwara Falcons last season. He will surely look to help the Hoopers as they try to make a deep run into the BAL playoffs.
Chris Crawford has led the revival of US Monastir during the Sahara Conference.
US Monastir
The Tunisian club emerged as a phoenix from the ashes to secure their spot in the BAL playoffs. After losing their first three games of the Sahara Conference, Monastir came out swinging in the second round. The Blue Empire won three straight to secure the last third-best place ticket.
While the team struggled in the first round, going 0-3, they showed resilience. Monastir managed to find their identity and corrected their mistakes. The impact of Firas Lahyani on the defensive glass and his steals allowed them to limit the opposition’s offensive opportunities and create opportunities for them to take advantage of their offensive arsenal and convert offensively.
Chris Crawford was the Tunisian side’s offensive catalyst, leading the team with 19.2 points per game. Crawford showcased his versatility in his consistent production on the offensive end, creating opportunities for his teammates. He averaged 8.5 assists per game – the record for the regular season.
Monastir made one change to their roster – the addition of guard Avry Marshall Holmes, who brings experience from South America. He will provide an additional scoring option to the Tunisian side. Holmes replaces Amrou Bouallague.
JONE Pedro took time to cosy up to basketball despite having a direct line to the game. The fact that his father played the game at the highest level for Angola, did not mean that the sport would be an automatic first choice for Jone.
The Petro de Luanda player had dabbled in other sports until certain shifts in his life drove him to basketball. He experienced a growth spurt which led to him leaning in on the legacy and later the birth of his younger sister hit him with a dose of maturity.
Pedro, now 34, also explained to The Big Tip Off how his second pro stint in Angola shaped his character and after having enjoyed success at the club level, he is now looking beyond.
Jone, the son of former Angolan player Adriano Pedro, says it was in Germany that he started gravitating towards basketball.
“Sometimes the ball gets put in your hands because of your family, but in my case, it was me witnessing. So, seeing what my dad was doing at a young age, subconsciously drew me to the game later in life,” says Pedro.
“My dad played Portugal and later in Germany, where I grew up. When we moved there (Germany), I got exposed to several sports, of course, soccer being the main one. I also played ping-pong,” said Pedro. “By the time I was 13 or 14, I began to notice the height difference because I was not always tall. That is when I decided to try basketball – when I was 14.”
Jone Pedro says the Kalahari Conference was exciting from a fan perspective, but disappointing because of Petro’s results. Pictures: The BTO
Early on, Pedro would have a love-hate relationship with the game. The main reason for his early struggle was his approach toward the game.
“When I started, I was playing for fun. When I switched clubs from my home city (Aachen) to Leverkusen, I still had the same attitude until I realised other players were being pushed instead of me. So I quit,” said Pedro. “When I turned 19, I came to Angola because my dad felt I was not being productive. I spent a season playing in Angola for a team in Lubango (Desportivo de Huila).
“I didn’t like it much because I had grown up in Germany, and it (Lubango) was a different reality. So, after a year, I returned to Germany.”
While in Germany, his sister, already born and growing, made Pedro realise he had different decisions to make. He had to be more serious about his game. Pedro joined then-fourth-tier club Giants Dusseldorf, who went undefeated that season (2011-2012). His successful stint there stint led to a move to Pro A team Gladiators Treves (known as TBB Trier).
“The birth of my sister motivated me to take basketball seriously. By the time she was around three or four, I began to look at the game the right way. I made the decision to pursue a professional career and I have never looked back,” said Pedro.
The big man has also adopted a mature outlook on life during his 10-year stay in Angola, where he started out for ASA (Atletico Sport Aviacao) and Primeiro de Agosto. While domestic basketball in the Southern African nation had not reached the desired level professionally, Pedro was unfazed by the situation.
“As far as professionalism goes, it was a step back, but because of who I was back then, it was a step up. I was up for the challenge (of playing in Angola), and whatever difficulty I might have, I would embrace it because I could not behave the way I did before. ‘Like, ok, things are not going well here, I quit,” said Pedro. “It was time for me to challenge myself… Find motivation to get through the league and season.”
Apart from growing as an individual, Pedro’s decade in Angola would also yield success on the court. He won two league championships with Primeiro and four with his current club, Petro. It has led to Pedro feeling the time has come for a new career challenge.
“I come from different habits. I grew up among different African communities in Germany – Ghanaian, Congolese and Guineans. It (Angola) was challenging. It was new, provocative, fun and harsh… A real mix of everything,” said Pedro. “This was a lesson of life. I am happy I made it through while staying sane and being true to myself. I am happy because it was worth it.
“But I think it is important to know when it is time for a new challenge. I am in a position to choose whatever offer may come.”
Pedro played his cards close to his chest on his next move. It is understandable as his gaze is on the Basketball Africa League (BAL) playoffs in Kigali, Rwanda. Despite making it through the Kalahari Conference in South Africa, Petro struggled – their 2-2 record saw the Angolan giants sever ties with Brazilian coach Jose Neto.
While the on-court struggles of Petro were laid bare, Pedro says South Africa was a great setting to start the BAL Season 4.
“Going to South Africa was amazing. It was amazing. It’s the perfect location. The culture there is nice. There was a welcoming atmosphere. And the vibe was just different. It felt like we were in the States, but as far as the team goes, we were on the brink of mental exhaustion,” said Pedro. “When you are used to winning, it becomes hard to stay motivated. It was difficult for us to bring our A-game. So, I think it was time for change, and I don’t mean Neto leaving.
“I don’t think we performed at 70 per cent of our ability. It was a disaster. I am being straight up. It was obvious that Petro was not Petro. But we made it through.”
Jone Pedro says Petro will have a different posture for the BAL season 4 playoffs.
Spaniard Sergio Valdeolmillos is the new coach and recently led Petro to a 16th league title. Under him, Pedro feels there has been accountability. According to Pedro, there is a new energy ahead of their clash against US Monastir, a team they lost to in the 2022 BAL final.
“Now that we have a new coach, there is a new mentality. He is doing what needs to be done. He is holding every player accountable. We are more aggressive and physical. We’ve been practising like crazy. It’s unbelievable,” said Pedro. “So I just have to believe in the process. We are here for a reason. The team is ready (for the BAL playoffs).
“What I can guarantee is that the posture of Petro is going to be different during the playoffs.”
As he winds down the season with Petro, Pedro is thankful for his existence and what it has served, but there is a craving for a little more.
“Finding my purpose (in life). That has been a great inspiration for me. There’s a difference between what you need to do and what you want to do. For me, I decided I wanted to play basketball and go as far as I can to help and provide for my family,” said the former Angolan international. “And it changes. My sister is about to turn 18, so she is not that cutie that used to motivate me. You always find a new chapter. It can be recovering from an injury or winning a championship. Maybe doubt creeps up, and you question if you won it. So you have to prove yourself again.”
No doubt Pedro and his teammates will have to prove their championship credentials in these BAL playoffs. They are well acquainted with the disappointment of losing and the sweet taste of victory. Hopefully, Pedro can again experience the latter feeling – this time at the continental level. After that, he can ponder on his future.
SATURDAY’S sold-out match at Sun Bet Arena saw the Cape Town Tigers secure their first Kalahari Conference win after defeating Petro de Luanda 84-78.
The Tigers started the Basketball Africa League encounter with a high level of aggression – which was unusual for them. They were able to match the intensity of Petro in the paint and reduce their turnovers. The Tigers played as a team, shared the ball, and the result saw them lead every quarter for the first time in the tournament.
Cartier Diarra led all scorers in the first half, scoring 12 points and dishing out five assists. Storm Gilchrist shook off his rookie title and made major contributions at both ends of the floor before he sustained an injury.
During the post-match presser, Tigers coach Florsheim Ngwenya noted Gilchrist’s injury as an ankle sprain. In the end, Billy Preston’s 11-point second-half performance sealed the deal for the Tigers.
Ngwenya credited his team’s level of concentration until the final buzzer sounded. “This shows that with the proper preparation, we give ourselves a chance to hang with the best of them,” said the Tigers coach.
Storm Gilchrist clutches his left ankle after injury during the match against Petro. Pictures: The BTO
Dylan Whitbred, who had a 12-point performance off the bench, acknowledged the fans for cheering the team on against the memorable victory against Petro.
“Having the fans here is an incredible experience. I try to tell the guys and remind everyone who comes to watch me play that it is an absolute pleasure to have them in the arena. I do not take that for granted,” said Whitbred. “So we come out with a lot of heart and played for the fans… Because it’s all about them. I am glad we were able to pull out this win.”
Petro de Luanda has had a difficult season, and the outcome of their final conference game reflects this. José Neto, the coach, expressed dissatisfaction with the team’s performance, stating they did not play to their usual standard.
“The team isn’t here. The players are but Petro isn’t here,” says Neto. “Throughout the tournament, different players have stood out but we didn’t play together as a team and that is a surprise to me too.”
Last night’s game was no different. Neto, who took responsibility for the two losses, pointed out that despite the game’s statistics, he believed the Tigers wanted it more.
“The game is not about numbers, it is about who is hungrier and Cape Town [Tigers] were hungrier than us,” said Neto. “The Tigers played well enough to win. The numbers are not that different to me but they had more spirit.”
Petro had many moments where they looked like a shell of themselves and struggled from the three – which has historically been a strong suit of theirs. They were also out-rebounded (50/45).
“We didn’t respect the Tigers enough to show up and do what needed to be done and the results show that,” said Neto.
THE opening night of the Basketball Africa League (BAL) dished up upsets, with home club Cape Town Tigers and tournament favourites Petro de Luanda, suffering defeats to Dynamo Basketball Club and FUS Rabat respectively.
Game 1: FUS Rabat’s bench steals the show
In their debut game in the BAL’s Kalahari conference, FUS de Rabat defeated Petro de Luanda 82-73, handing them their third straight loss. Soufiane Benmhine, reflecting on the game, credited the team’s success to their awareness of their opponent’s strengths and weaknesses.
“The key was to respect Petro but not to fear them. Every player respected their role, including those on the bench,” said Benmhine. Jonathan Jordan led the charge for FUS, scoring 17 points, while Aliou Diarra, the 2023 Defensive Player of the Year, picked up where he left off in Season 3 with 15 points and 10 rebounds.
Yanick Moreira efforts were not enough as Petro fell to FUS Rabat. Pictures: The BTO
Petro de Luanda, who is usually a good shooting team, struggled to create the space they needed on the floor to play their game. As a result, only two players put up double digits. “Tonight was not a good game. We got killed on offence and defence. We struggled to play as a team while the other team did,” Petro coach Jose Neto.
In the third quarter, Petro seemed to gain momentum, sparked by some steals by Childe Dundao, which led to back-to-back threes from Carlos Morais. Unfortunately, this was short-lived as the team closed out the quarter at an 11-point deficit.
Despite this defeat, Morais is still confident in his team’s ability to bounce back in their next game against the hosts, The Cape Town Tigers.
“We were very unlucky, but we have only lost one game. Our focus is to qualify for Kigali, and this loss does not change that,” said Morais.
Game 2: Dynamo spoils Tigers’ local debut
In a fully packed arena, Burundi’s Dynamo Basketball Club spoiled the Cape Town Tigers’ home opener with a 86-73 win. The Tigers struggled to share the ball and settled for desperate shots in the first half, going 5/18 beyond the arc and giving up 22 points in the paint. Which them at a 15-point deficit by halftime.
Despite a full-court press effort and some electrifying plays in the third by Samkelo Cele (26 points) and Billy Preson Jr (18 points), which cut the lead down to six, the team lost momentum as they became careless with the ball, leading to them being down 13 points by the end of the third.
Samkelo Cele played a starring role for the Tigers, who came up short against Dynamo.
“We did a good job of penetrating the paint, but that counts for nothing if we cannot convert. We didn’t protect the ball and struggled to play defence for a full 24 seconds,” remarked Cele.
Dynamo’s coach Julien Chaignot credited his players’ readiness for the moment. The French coach also acknowledged the importance of winning the first game, which is a good first step for the rest of the competition.
In the post-game presser, Burundi’s Bryton Hobbs spoke about the hard grind that brought them here, including training outdoors for six weeks, sometimes three times a day in the rain.
“We built chemistry over those six weeks, which has made us a tight-knit team. We are here to win.”
Hobbs’ 17 first-half points gave Dynamo a comfortable lead. However, his finesse and leadership shined bright in the second half as he got some good looks and dished out 7 assists.
YANICK Moreira’s career is one of Africa’s greatest success stories in basketball. From his youth and into his prime he has enjoyed a playing career illuminated by trophies. While many would be content if they had half of what Moreira has won, he on the other hand remains hungry for more.
While fortunate to have been in winning situations in his journey, the foundational work of moulding and shaping the phenomenal Petro de Luanda player started in his home country, Angola. He says witnessing the esteemed Palancas Negras showing out in continental competition led him to his present path.
“I fell in love with basketball by watching my national team (Angola) playing in the AfroBasket in Luanda. It inspired me to want also wear the national team vest and represent my country at highest level,” explained the 32-year-old.
Yanick Moreira’s love for basketball started when he saw the Angolan national team play. Pictures FIBA
While enamoured by his country’s exploits on the court, his family, on the other hand, were sceptical of his decision to play basketball. They felt Moreira would have better outcomes if he pursued education.
Fortunately for the big man, there would be a turning point that changed his family’s opinion about his pursuit of basketball.
“They were not sure how far I would go with basketball. In their (family) opinion, school and getting a degree was my best option,” said Moreira. “Thats until they saw me play for the national team… ‘You are good’ was how they responded.”
Having changed his family’s opinion on his career choice, Moreira continued to thrive, and a world of opportunity opened, and his cup of success also flowed.
He had already enjoyed multiple league and cup successes before jetting off to the United States on a college scholarship. At the latter end of his time at South Plains College, his team won the NJCAA tournament, and he also scooped the MVP award (all in 2012). He was also an NJCAA All-American.
In his final college year (2015) at Southern Methodist University, where he graduated, he was also the ACC’s Most Improved Player and Second All-ACC team.
As a professional player, he attained NBA G League success with 905 Raptors in 2017 and won a FIBA Champions League title with Italian club Virtus Bologna. Moreira says the genesis of his winning attitude stems from the national team and former club, Primeiro de Agosto’s “winning culture”.
“I have grown up in a winning culture. I grew up playing for Primeiro de Agosto, and every game we played, we had to win. So, having that mentality at a young age helped me wherever I went. I always tell myself, ‘I know how to win,” said Moreira. “Also, watching my national team win most of the time was encouraging.
“I also told myself, ‘I want to bring something back for my country.”
He also had a reflection on his decade-long overseas experience. The former AEK Athens player says leaving Angola built his character.
“It made me stronger (playing overseas), especially as I was away from my family. My desire was to play basketball at a higher level and somebody gave me an opportunity to make the most of my talent. I have never looked back, since then,” said Moreira. “I realised how far basketball can take me. With focus, dedication, and with hard work, the opportunities came.”
Following a shortlived stay in Israel with Hapoel Afula BC, Moreira recently returned to Angola. He is helping to lead Petro’s charge for a 17th Angolan Basketball League title. The 2.11m (6ft11) big man also wants to change the fortunes of Os Tricolores in the Basketball Africa League (BAL), a trophy that has eluded the Angolan giants since the tournament tipped off in 2021.
Yanick Moreira feels his game is improving with every year.
Moreira was part of the Petro team that made their only final in 2022, in which they lost Tunisia’s US Monastir. As Petro heads to their fourth BAL, he urges his teammates to enjoy themselves more.
“Of course, you always want to win… It will always be in our minds, but we also need to do is have fun. Play smart. Play together, but most importantly, have fun and enjoy,” emphasised Moreira. “Many teams do not get the opportunity to play at the BAL. We need to enjoy this moment because you don’t know when you will get it again.
“For forty minutes, you can forget the stuff going on in your life and enjoy basketball. It’s forty minutes of doing what you love.”
Another aspect Moreira is enjoying is developing his game. As a veteran player, he’s added a few more tricks to his bag to outsmart opponents.
“I feel great (about my game). As you get older, you add some stuff to become better. Every year, I feel I am getting better,” said Moreira. “I want to get better by the time the BAL starts. I am in great shape and ready to go.”
Moreira’s return to Petro significantly improves their BAL aspirations. He has won in the parts of the world he played in. Hopefully, his championship pedigree will rub off on the Angolan juggernaut.
PETRO de Luanda is a highly decorated club that has participated in every instalment of the Basketball Africa League (BAL). Despite their extensive experience in the league, they have yet to win the BAL trophy. Ahead of theBAL, The Big Tip Off previewsPetro.
Team: Petro de Luanda
Country: Angola
History: The 40-year-old club has a history of success on home soil and continentally. Petro has won many titles over the years, including 16 Angolan Basketball League championships, two Luanda Provincial Champions titles, 14 Angolan Cup titles, 10 Wlademiro Romero Super Cup titles, one Victorino Cunha Cup title and two FIBA Africa Club Champions Cup titles.
In the first season, they finished in third place and made it to the final the following year, where they fell short against Tunisia’s US Monastir.
Can Jose Neto lead Petro to the promised land in Season 4 of the BAL? Pictures: FIBA and the BTO
Despite their lack of a BAL title, Petro has always managed to finish among the top four in the BAL.
Route To BAL: Angola is one of six countries whose club’s automatic qualification into the BAL. Petro went 23-1 throughout the season and defeated Primero de Agosto in the Angolan Basketball League finals to clinch their 16th national title.
Coach: Brazilian coach José Neto will again lead Petro in their title quest.Netohas extensive coaching experience at the club and national team level for Brazil. He is also the head coach of Brazil’s national women’s team, and his coaching career is highly decorated.
Previously, he coached at Flamengo basketball club and achieved great success. He won a FIBA Intercontinental Cup Championship, a FIBA Americas League Championship, and four consecutive Brazilian National League (NBB) titles.
During his time with Petro, he has won three Angolan League Champion titles, two Angolan Cup trophies, and two Angolan Super Cup titles. Neto is also a three-time Angolan League Coach of the Year and he won Coach of the Year in Season 2 of the BAL.
Star Player: Carlos Morais, a veteran and legendary basketball player from Angola, is a star player on the Petro team. Last season, when Petro appeared to be struggling in the final stages of games,Moraiswas the go-to guy. He made key plays that helped to swing the momentum in Petro’s favour.
At 38, he had his best performance in Season 3 of the BAL… Recording improvements in every statistical category, averaging 15.6 points, 4.4 rebounds per game, and 3.3 assists per game.
In Season 2 of the BAL, Morais earned All-First Team honours.
SOULEYMANOU Diabatenever imagined when he left his homeland of Cote d’Ivoire as a teenager that his name and his game would reach the fame that it has, internationally.
The point guard, popularly known as Solo, who spoke to The Big Tip Off last Thursday, intimated that basketball was one of the reasons he had travelled to France, but he did not, in his wildest dreams, think he would go pro.
“It was one of the best things I experienced. I left my parents at fourteen to go to France to study and play basketball. To reach the level that I did, playing in the French first division, a league second to the NBA, was a blessing. I enjoyed my time there, and now I am back in Africa,” said Diabate, who turned pro in 2006. “Honestly, I just played the game for enjoyment. I did not think of playing the game at the highest level. After two or three years in France, I realised I could go far with the game. The coaches who watched and encouraged me also made me realise I had to take the chance, and I did.”
Solo Diabate brings title credentials to Petro de Luanda. Pictures: Cheick Haidara
The 37-year-old spent 15 years playing overseas with countries like France, where his pro career started, Macedonia and China.
While Diabate had a solid playing career abroad, his return to Africa has yielded spectacular returns and enhanced his reputation as a winner. The 1.83m (6 ft0) floor general helped Egyptian super club Zamalek capture the inaugural Basketball Africa League (BAL) title two years ago. A year later, he would become the only player to win back-to-back BAL titles, this time with Tunisia’s US Monastir.
“Returning to Africa almost at the end of my career and getting to play at the BAL has been unbelievable. I am also helping young guys to focus on their dreams, so it’s great thing and I have won two BAL titles. It’s been an amazing experience,” said Diabate.
Despite having bagged two BAL titles, the Ivorian described winning in the league’s debut season, where he averaged eight points, one rebound and three assists per game, as his most memorable.
“Honestly, it was winning with Zamalek. Everything in the team was perfect, and it was the first edition of the BAL. It was a history-making moment because we were the first team to win it. Besides winning the trophy, the team atmosphere was great. I have good memories of that time. Only good memories,” said Diabate, who joined the Angolan club Petro de Luanda last year.
Solo Diabate has won two BAL titles since returning to the African continent.
The ambitious Petro, who lost last year’s continental final, will count on Diabate, Carlos Morais, Joan Petro, Ater Majok and Childe Dundão to help them capture a maiden BAL title.
Diabate says expectations are high at Petro, who are in the Nile Conference, which tips off on April 26. The belief is that this is Petro’s year and who can doubt that given the team the Angolan club has put together?
“I think we have a good and balanced team of young and experienced players. Of course, I bring my experience and my game. It’s nice to be here at Petro, even if there is more pressure to win the BAL. It is Petro’s goal, and they want it, so there is pressure on all of us,” said Diabate.
One of the players who will help Petro in their quest towards winning a first BAL crown is centre Majok, a teammate of Diabate’s at title-winning Monastir last year.
Diabate is excited about Majok landing at Petro, and he feels the big man will give the team an added edge.
“I am happy that Majok has joined Petro. We had a good relationship from our time at Monastir. He is a good player and a good guy. His ability to block shots will deter opposing players in the paint. He can also pass, and he is a leader. We have a good team with balance. We now have to prove ourselves on the court,” said the Cote D’Ivoire player.
Diabate is familiar with Al Ahly from his time in Egypt and he is somewhat knowledgeable of the Tigers. The other teams are a closed book to him.
“I do not know much about some of the teams. I know Al Ahly is a solid team, and their coach won the first BAL with us at Zamalek. He is a smart coach, and I’m sure he has put together a great team,” said Diabate. “I also know players from the Cape Town team, especially Evans Ganapamo. What I am also sure of is that our group is going to be tough.
“The team from Mozambique look good. I do not think they are strong, but they are solid. So, we have to be careful, and no disrespect to the other conference but ours has the best teams.”
There is no question that Petro is loaded with talent, and they are championship material, but come the start of the Nile Conference, Diabate and his teammates have to prove they can swim against the coming tide.
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