RSSB Tigers Make History, Advance to BAL 2026 Playoffs After Defeating Joburg Giants
The RSSB Tigers (Rwanda) continue their stellar run in the 2026 Basketball Africa League (BAL) after defeating the Joburg Giants 102–89. With this victory, the Tigers have officially secured their ticket to the Playoffs, scheduled to take place in Kigali this May.
The game, played at the SunBet Arena, was characterized by intense competition. However, the RSSB Tigers demonstrated a top-tier performance, particularly in the final quarter where they completely overwhelmed the Giants to seal the win
Quarter-by-Quarter Breakdown
While the Joburg Giants started the game strong, the Tigers gradually regrouped and took control. The score progression by quarter highlights how the match was won:
- Q1: Giants 27 – Tigers 25
- Q2: Giants 20 – Tigers 24 (Halftime: Tigers lead 49-47)
- Q3: Giants 24 – Tigers 25
- Q4: Giants 18 – Tigers 28
The Tigers turned on the jets in the fourth quarter, dropping 28 points to create the double-digit gap that secured their flawless victory.
Standout Performances
- Craig Randall II led the charge as the game’s top scorer with a massive 39 points, while also grabbing 6 rebounds and dishing out 5 assists.
- Mangok Mathiang put on an absolute masterclass with a monster double-double, racking up 32 points and 17 rebounds, earning the highest efficiency index of the game (43).
- Antino Jackson orchestrated the offense beautifully, contributing 13 points and passing out 7 assists.
Key things happens from the Game
Notably, the RSSB Tigers pulled off this victory without their key forward, Teofale Lenard Jr., who missed the game due to a foot injury. Fortunately for the Tigers, the injury is reported to be minor, and he is expected to return to the hardwood soon.
Another major highlight for the Rwandan side was the BAL debut of 21-year-old youngster Twizerimana Cyiza Chandelier, who received his first minutes on the court in the prestigious tournament.



