IN a scintillating display of offensive firepower at the BK Arena, Al Ahli Tripoli delivered a statement performance that reverberated throughout the Basketball Africa League, dismantling Nairobi City Thunder 104-91 to punch their ticket to the 2025 BAL Playoffs with authority.
The Libyan powerhouse showcased the depth and versatility that has made them the most feared team in the Nile Conference, with five players reaching double figures in a balanced offensive assault that left Thunder scrambling for answers. This emphatic victory marked Al Ahli’s fourth consecutive triumph, cementing their position as conference champions and earning them a coveted spot among basketball’s elite on the continent.
Boissy Leads the Charge
Former NBA Academy Africa standout Jean Jacques Boissy orchestrated the offensive symphony with a game-high 26 points, demonstrating the poise and skill that once caught the attention of NBA scouts. The Senegalese guard’s explosive performance was complemented by Mohamed Abdourahman’s dominant double-double of 23 points and 13 rebounds, establishing the interior presence that Thunder simply couldn’t match.
Despite valiant efforts from Uchenna Iroegbu, who tallied 23 points for Thunder, and Eugene Adera’s all-around contribution of nine points, 12 rebounds, and four assists, the Kenyan representatives found themselves outgunned by Al Ahli’s relentless offensive machine. Thunder’s winless streak extended to four games, but their competitive spirit remained evident throughout the contest.
Playoff Picture Takes Shape
Al Ahli’s qualification sends shockwaves through the BAL landscape as they join an elite group of continental basketball royalty. The playoffs, set to tip off June 6 at SunBet Arena in Pretoria, South Africa, will feature a murderer’s row of African basketball excellence: defending champions Petro de Luanda from Angola, 2022 champions US Monastir from Tunisia, Egypt’s Al Ittihad, Nigeria’s Rivers Hoopers, and Cape Verde’s Kriol Star.
MBB Continues Surge Against APR
In the evening’s second encounter, Made By Basketball delivered another impressive performance, edging the home crowd favorite APR 94-88 in a thriller that had the Kigali faithful on the edge of their seats. The South African squad’s second consecutive victory demonstrated their growing confidence and tactical maturity under pressure.
Jovan Mooring proved unstoppable for MBB, erupting for 29 points while contributing eight rebounds and five assists in a masterful all-around display. His backcourt partner Teafale Lenard Jr. provided crucial support with 19 points, seven rebounds, and four assists, while South African forward Pieter Prinsloo added 13 points and seven rebounds to the cause.
The x-factor proved to be Tennessee Tech product David Craig, whose 24-plus minutes of interior dominance yielded nine points, 10 rebounds, and two blocks. MBB’s exceptional 51 percent shooting from the field showcased the offensive efficiency that has transformed them into genuine contenders.
APR’s Resilient Effort Falls Short
Despite playing before their passionate home crowd, APR couldn’t find the offensive rhythm needed to secure victory. Obadiah Noel’s team-high 23 points and Youssoupha Ndoye’s impressive double-double of 19 points and 10 rebounds kept the hosts competitive, but their 37 percent field goal shooting proved costly in crucial moments.
The consecutive losses dropped APR’s record to 2-2, though they maintain second place in the competitive Nile Conference standings. Their ability to bounce back will be tested in the crucial weekend fixtures ahead.
Weekend Showdowns Await
The Nile Conference drama continues Saturday with two pivotal matchups that could reshape the playoff picture. MBB (2-2) will look to build momentum against the struggling Nairobi City Thunder (0-4) in what appears to be a favorable matchup for the South Africans.
The marquee evening contest features the undefeated Al Ahli Tripoli (4-0) squaring off against APR (2-2) in what promises to be an electric atmosphere as the Rwandan side seeks redemption on home soil.
With playoff positioning still at stake and continental pride on the line, Saturday’s doubleheader at BK Arena promises to deliver the high-stakes basketball that has made the Basketball Africa League must-watch entertainment for fans across the continent and beyond.
Tickets for the 2025 BAL Playoffs are available at www.ticketmaster.co.za
