From Kigali to the Final: RSSB Tigers Write BAL History,RSSB Tigers Make History, Storm Into First-Ever BAL Final After Beating Al Ahly SC
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From Kigali to the Final: RSSB Tigers Write BAL History,RSSB Tigers Make History, Storm Into First-Ever BAL Final After Beating Al Ahly SC

Rwanda’s RSSB Tigers created history on Wednesday night after defeating Al Ahly SC 105-97 in a thrilling semifinal clash of the 2026 Basketball Africa League (BAL) playoffs held at BK Arena in Kigali.

The victory means that, for the very first time since the BAL competition was launched in 2021, a Rwandan club has reached the BAL final a historic achievement for both the club and the country.  

Backed by a packed and electric BK Arena crowd, the Tigers produced another fearless performance against the 2023 BAL champions. From the opening quarter, the Rwandan side matched Al Ahly’s intensity before taking control during crucial moments of the game through explosive offense and strong defensive rebounds.

American star Craig Randall once again led the Tigers with a sensational display, continuing the incredible form that has made him one of the standout players of BAL 2026. Randall has already broken the BAL scoring record earlier this season after dropping 54 points against Dar City during the Kalahari Conference.  

The Tigers also benefited from the presence of dominant big men Oumar Ballo and Mangok Mathiang, whose physicality inside the paint troubled the Egyptian giants throughout the contest. Teafale Lenard Jr also played a key role as the hosts maintained their composure against Al Ahly’s late comeback attempts.

For Al Ahly SC, former BAL MVP Nuni Omot and experienced scorer Kevin Murphy fought hard to keep the Egyptian side alive, but the Tigers proved too strong on the night.  

The achievement marks a remarkable rise for RSSB Tigers, a club that only recently entered the BAL scene after replacing APR as Rwanda’s representative for the 2026 season. Founded in 2019, the Kigali-based side has now become the first Rwandan team ever to secure a place in the BAL championship game.  

The Tigers’ journey to the final has captured the hearts of basketball fans across Rwanda, especially after surviving a dramatic quarterfinal battle against FUS Rabat before eliminating continental powerhouse Al Ahly in the semifinals.  

Now, Rwanda stands just one victory away from continental glory as RSSB Tigers prepare for the BAL final this Sunday at BK Arena.

The dream is alive — and history is already made. 🇷🇼

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