BAL 2026: RSSB Tigers shock Al Ahly to seal final spot

RSSB Tigers made history in BK Arena after defeating Egypt’s Al Ahly SC 106-97 in a thrilling semifinal clash to become the first Rwandan team ever to qualify for the Basketball Africa League (BAL) Final.

Backed by a passionate home crowd in Kigali, the Tigers delivered one of their most complete performances of the season, surpassing the 100-point mark for the fourth time in the 2026 campaign while ending Al Ahly SC’s hopes of returning to the BAL championship game.

The encounter lived up to expectations from the opening quarter, with both sides exchanging baskets in a fast-paced and highly physical battle.

Former BAL champions Al Ahly SC relied heavily on the brilliance of Zack Lofton, who produced a game-high 36 points and kept the Egyptian side within touching distance throughout the contest.

However, the depth and collective strength of RSSB Tigers ultimately proved decisive.

The trio of Oumar Ballo, Teafale Lenard Jr. and Craig Randall II stole the spotlight, combining for 69 points to inspire the Rwandan side to a famous victory.

Ballo was dominant on both ends of the floor, finishing with 20 points and 17 rebounds in a commanding display off the bench.

His physical presence in the paint gave the Tigers control during crucial moments, especially in the second half when Al Ahly attempted to regain momentum.

Randall once again showcased why he has been one of the standout performers of the tournament.

The sharp-shooting guard finished with 30 points and came within one three-pointer of equalling his own BAL record of 11 three-pointers in a single game.

His long-range shooting energized the crowd and repeatedly punished Al Ahly’s defensive lapses.

Teafale Lenard also played a crucial role with timely baskets and defensive intensity as the Tigers maintained composure under pressure.

For most of the game, the semifinal remained tightly contested, with neither side able to establish a comfortable lead.

Al Ahly continued to threaten through Lofton’s scoring ability, but the Tigers elevated their intensity in the closing stages.

With less than five minutes remaining, the Rwandan side produced a decisive run that finally broke Al Ahly’s resistance.

Key defensive stops, fast-break points and Randall’s deadly perimeter shooting allowed RSSB Tigers to pull away and seal a memorable nine-point victory.

The triumph marks a historic milestone for Rwandan basketball, as RSSB Tigers become the nation’s first representatives to reach the BAL Final since the competition was launched in 2021.

RSSB Tigers will now face the winner of the other semifinal between Petro de Luanda and Al Ahly Ly as they aim to crown their remarkable campaign with a continental title.