Rwanda’s RSSB Tigers made history on Sunday evening after defeating Angola’s Petro de Luanda 90-88 to win the 2026 Basketball Africa League championship in front of a passionate home crowd at BK Arena.
The victory marked a remarkable achievement for RSSB Tigers, who secured the title in their debut BAL campaign and became the first Rwandan team to win the prestigious continental competition.
Randall Leads Stunning Comeback
American guard Leonard Randall delivered a sensational performance to inspire the Tigers to a memorable victory. After trailing by 11 points in the first quarter, the hosts mounted a strong comeback and entered halftime with a 42-37 lead.
Randall finished the game with an impressive double-double of 33 points and was instrumental throughout the contest. He scored 20 points in the first half alone, including a crucial three-pointer at the buzzer that sent the home crowd into celebration.
Speaking after the game, Randall reflected on his journey and the team’s resilience.
“I almost quit the game three months ago, and now I am a champion. I trusted my teammates, and we believed we could do it. The brotherhood we formed with this team is what carried us through.”
His outstanding performances throughout the tournament earned him the 2026 BAL Most Valuable Player award.
Tigers Overcome Early Deficit
Petro de Luanda, champions in 2024, started strongly and dominated the opening quarter, taking a 27-16 lead. However, RSSB Tigers responded with a remarkable second-quarter display, outscoring their opponents 26-10 to take control of the game.
South Sudanese star Mangok Mathiang, who recently won the BAL Defensive Player of the Year award, also played a vital role in the comeback with his defensive presence and leadership on the court.
The Tigers maintained their momentum during the second half and held off a late challenge from Petro de Luanda to secure a historic two-point victory.
Historic Awards for Rwanda
The championship brought further recognition for the Rwandan side.
Randall beat fellow finalist contenders Mathiang, Childe Dundao and Abou Gakou to claim the league MVP award.
Meanwhile, RSSB Tigers head coach Henry Mwinuka of Tanzania received the 2026 BAL Coach of the Year award after guiding the club to an unforgettable debut season.
Landmark Moment for Rwandan Basketball
The triumph represents a major milestone for basketball in Rwanda and highlights the country’s growing influence on the African sporting stage. Playing before a packed BK Arena crowd, RSSB Tigers delivered one of the most memorable performances in BAL history and gave local fans a championship to celebrate.
