The Basketball African league (BAL) tipped off its second season with thrilling matchups in diamniadio, Senegal. On Sunday, defending champions Rwanda Energy Group (Rwanda) overcame a halftime deficit too secure a hard-fought 91-87 victory against Association sportive de Salé (Morocco) at the Dakar Arena.
The Rwandans trailed 48-46 at the half but rallied in the third quarter, showcasing their determination and ultimately taking a two-point lead heading into the final period. Despite a valiant effort from the Moroccans in the fourth quarter, Rwanda held strong, demonstrating their championship pedigree and securing a crucial opening win.
The BAL’s second season features twelve clubs representing a diverse range of African nations. The tournament kicked off on Saturday with the Seydou Legacy Athlétique Club (SLAC) of Guinea defeating the Dakar University club (DUC) 85-70.
Following the Dakar stage, which concludes on March 15th, the action will shift to Cairo and Kigali. Over the next three months, a total of 38 games will be played across thes three host cities.
The twelve participating teams are divided into two conferences: the Sahara conference and the Nile Conference. The top four teams from each conference will advance to the BAL playoffs, culminating in a knockout tournament and finals at the Kigali Arena from may 21st to 28th, 2022.
Back From the Brink: A Chat with Former Rwandan Star, Jean-Pierre Niyomugabo
Welcome back, hoops fans, to another exciting episode of Courtside chats! Today, we have a very special guest, former Rwandan national team star and two-time BAL champion, Jean-Pierre Niyomugabo. Welcome to the show, JP.
Jean-Pierre: Thanks for having me! It’s always great to talk basketball.
Moderator: Let’s jump right in. Rwanda Energy Group kicked off their title defense with a hard-fought win over AS Salé. Down at halftime, they stormed back in the third quarter to secure the victory.What do you attribute this resilience to?
Jean-Pierre: You know, champion teams find ways to win. I wasn’t surprised to see Energy Group come back. They have that “never say die” attitude, something we emphasized during my playing days. Coach brings out the best in these guys, and they trust their system.
Moderator: Absolutely. It’s that belief, that unwavering faith, that separates the good from the great. This BAL season is shaping up to be incredibly competitive. 12 teams from across Africa, each hungry for glory. Do you see any particular team as a serious threat to Rwanda’s crown?
jean-Pierre: It’s early days, but you can’t discount teams like SLAC from Guinea. They had a strong showing in their opener against Dakar University Club. And let’s not forget the Moroccan teams; they are always a force to be reckoned with.
Moderator: Excellent points. The BAL format, with conferences and playoffs, adds another layer of intrigue. Do you think this format fosters better rivalries and ultimately elevates the level of play?
Jean-Pierre: Definitely. It mirrors the NBA system in a way, allowing for regional competition before culminating in a grand finale.
Moderator:
Rwanda will be hoping for a repeat of last year’s success, culminating in the Kigali Arena finals.what advice would you give the current squad to maintain their momentum throughout the season?
Jean-Pierre: Stay focused. Keep applying the defensive pressure they’re known for. And moast importantly, play as a team. When they move the ball and trust each other, they’re virtually unstoppable.
Moderator: Wise words from a true champion.
Now,let’s open it up to our viewers. what are your predictions for the BAL season? Who will be crowned champion? Let us know in the comments below!
