BAL 2026: RSSB Tigers Emerge Champions, Make History

BAL 2026: RSSB Tigers Emerge Champions, Make History

Sampson Adedeji

Rwandan side RSSB Tigers made history on Sunday after emerging champions of the 2026 Basketball Africa League (BAL) following a thrilling 90-88 victory over Petro de Luanda in the final played at the BK Arena in Kigali, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The victory marked a remarkable achievement for the Kigali-based club, who claimed the continental title in their maiden appearance in the competition. 

RSSB Tigers became the first Rwandan team to win the BAL championship and completed a fairytale debut campaign in style.

Facing the experienced Petro de Luanda side, who were appearing in another BAL final, RSSB Tigers held their nerve in a closely contested encounter to secure the historic two-point win.

The triumph caps an outstanding season for the Rwandan club, who had already stunned many observers by reaching the final after defeating Egyptian giants Al Ahly in the semifinals.

Having entered the BAL for the first time this season, RSSB Tigers wrote their name into the competition's history books by lifting the trophy at the first attempt and delivering a memorable moment for Rwandan basketball.