The 2025 Basketball Africa League (BAL) Nile Conference officially tipped off on Saturday 17 may, 2025 at the BK Arena in Kigali, bringing high energy basketball and excitement to Rwandan fans, local businesses, and the African basketball scene.
Day One of the conference saw two thrilling matchups. In the opening game, Al Ahli Tripoli (Libya) outplayed Made By Basketball (South Africa) with an 87-77 win. Former NBA Academy Africa player Jean Jacques Boissy starred with a game high 28 points, 24 of which came from three point range along with seven rebounds and three steals. His teammates Jaylen Adams and Naseim Badrush added a combined 30 points and 8 rebounds, helping Al Ahli dominate the boards with 51 rebounds, including 21 offensive grabs.
In the second game, Rwanda’s own APR BBC made a powerful statement, beating Nairobi City Thunder (Kenya) 92-63. Star forward Aliou Diarra delivered a standout performance, recording 21 points, 12 rebounds, 6 blocks, and 4 steals. Former NBA player Chasson Randle also impressed, scoring 20 points as APR shot an efficient 52.3% from the field and dominated fast breaks with 28 points.
The opening night drew thousands of fans and special guests, including Rwanda’s President H.E Paul Kagame, BAL President Amadou Gallo Fall, NBA Africa CEO Clare Akamanzi, and Rwanda minister of Sports Nelly Mukazayire proving once again that Rwanda is a top basketball destination in Africa.
At the press conference earlier in the day, NBA Africa CEO Clare Akamanzi shared her appreciation for Rwanda’s role in BAL’s growth:
“It’s great to be back where BAL began. We’ve seen real growth, strong partnerships, and impact. Especially in raising new talents, creating jobs and boosting both Africa and local economies.”
BAL President Amadou Gallo Fall echoed the excitement of being back in Kigali:
“We’re excited to be back in Kigali. Rwanda always welcomes us warmly, and through BAL, we keep growing basketball talent across Africa.”
Since its first edition in 2020, the BAL has not only promoted elite basketball but also contributed to economic development by creating opportunities for local traders, transporters, hotels, and youth working around the event.
The Nile Conference continues today, Sunday, with two more games:
Nairobi City Thunder vs Al Ahli Tripoli at 2:30 PM
MBB vs APR BBC at 5:30 PM
With such a strong start, fans can expect more thrilling action as teams compete for playoff spots in the 2025 BAL season, with the Finals set for June in Pretoria, South Africa.
FIRST GAME IMAGES
SECOND GAME IMAGES:
