BAL 2026 Sahara Conference: Nigeria’s Adekoya Among Players To Watch

BAL 2026 Sahara Conference: Nigeria’s Adekoya Among Players To Watch

Sampson Adedeji

As anticipation builds ahead of the 2026 Sahara Conference of the Basketball Africa League (BAL), Nigeria’s Jawad Adekoya of Maktown Flyers has been named among a select group of standout players expected to make a significant impact in the competition, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

With the countdown to the conference already underway, organisers have highlighted 12 players who are tipped to draw attention from fans, scouts and opposing teams, based on their pedigree, skill set and previous performances.

Adekoya, who made his BAL debut in 2023 with Kwara Falcons, caught the eye despite the Nigerian side enduring a difficult campaign, losing all five of their games. 

The 6’6” forward emerged as a bright spot, leading his team in scoring with an average of 11.2 points per game.

Known for his offensive efficiency and defensive presence, Adekoya’s inclusion reflects his steady development and growing reputation within African basketball circles.

The list also features a blend of BAL champions, elite shooters, dynamic ball-handlers, and players with experience at the highest level, including a G League champion who has also secured an NBA title.

Other players named to watch include Omar Abada (Club Africain), Ehab Amin (Al Ahly), Jonathan Jordan (Al Ahly), Chris Crawford (JCA Kings), Jonathan Cisse (JCA Kings), Axel Toupane (ASC Ville de Dakar), Ayoub Nouchi (FUS Rabat), Zachary Lofton (Al Ahly), Willy Perry (FUS Rabat), Solo Diabate (ASC Ville de Dakar), and Jesse Jones Jr. (Club Africain).

The Sahara Conference is expected to deliver high-level competition as teams battle for qualification to the BAL playoffs, with several top talents set to showcase their abilities on the continental stage.