Rwandan champions APR Basketball Club booked their place in the Basketball Africa League (BAL) semi-finals with a dominant 104–73 victory over Nigeria’s Rivers Hoopers on Monday, marking a historic moment for the club.
From the opening tip, APR looked like a team on a mission. Fueled by sharp execution, team chemistry, and relentless energy on both ends of the court, the Rwandan side established control early and never let go. By the end of the first quarter, they had carved out a 24–11 lead, setting the tone for what would become a statement win.
Aliou Diarra was once again a force in the paint. The double-double machine recording 20 points and 10 rebounds. Chasson Randle orchestrated the offense with calm and precision, tallying 15 points, 10 assists, and three steals in a complete performance. Nuni Omot, the BAL Season 3 MVP, led all scorers with 21 points—including a buzzer-beating jumper to close the first half.
As the game progressed, APR’s dominance became increasingly clear. Their defensive intensity shut down key threats, while their offense ran fluidly, with contributions from across the roster. The ball moved unselfishly, shots fell from all angles, and Rivers Hoopers had no answers.
This win secures APR’s place in the semi-finals for the first time in club history and makes them only the second Rwandan team ever to reach this stage of the BAL, following the Patriots’ 2021 campaign.
More than the individual stats, what stood out was the way the Lions played as a team. As Axel Mpoyo noted, “I think our chemistry—just our chemistry and how we play unselfishly” has been the difference this season.
The next giant to slay is Libya’s Al Ahli Tripoli—a battle-hardened team with eyes on the title. With a spot in the BAL final on the line, Wednesday’s clash is set to deliver fireworks. APR will rely on their momentum, chemistry, and gritty defense, while Al Ahli brings experience and firepower. It’s more than a game—it’s a shot at history.