Kenya’s Nairobi City Thunder Storms BAL Nile Conference in Kigali!

In summary:

The BAL Nile Conference is happening in Kigali from May 17-25, the last group stage before playoffs.
Kenya’s Nairobi City Thunder is playing in the BAL for the first time, hoping to qualify for South Africa.
The conference includes teams from Kenya, South Africa, Libya, and Rwanda, with top teams advancing.

The BAL Nile Conference is happening in Kigali, Rwanda, from May 17-25, marking the final group stage before the playoffs in South Africa. Kenya’s Nairobi City Thunder is making its debut in this prestigious African league, joining teams from South Africa, Libya, and the host nation, Rwanda. The top two teams from the Nile Conference will automatically advance to the playoffs, with a potential third spot available to the best third-placed team from all conferences. This event not only showcases the continent’s top basketball talent but also plays a crucial role in the ongoing development and growth of the sport throughout Africa.

Nile Conference: Competing Teams and Playoff Qualification Path

Kenya’s Nairobi City Thunder is playing in the BAL for the first time. Photo courtesy.

The BK Arena in Kigali will be the battleground for the Nile Conference matchups. The four teams vying for playoff berths are Nairobi City Thunder representing Kenya, Made By Basketball from South Africa, Al Ahli Tripoli hailing from Libya, and the host team, Armée Patriotique Rwandaise Basketball (APR) from Rwanda.

This conference follows earlier group stage games held in Morocco and Senegal. The two teams that achieve the highest rankings in Kigali will automatically qualify for the playoffs in South Africa.

Additionally, one more team—either FUS Rabat from Morocco or the third-place finisher in the Nile Conference—will also advance based on having the strongest overall record among the third-placed teams from all three conferences. In the playoffs, these teams will join other formidable contenders such as Al Ittihad from Egypt and Rivers Hoopers from Nigeria.

Nairobi City Thunder Gears Up for BAL Debut

Nairobi City Thunder is poised to make its debut in the Basketball Africa League, bringing with them a strong track record from Kenya’s national basketball scene. The team currently holds the championship title in the Kenyan league and has maintained an undefeated record this season, demonstrating their consistent high level of play.

Their recent victories against Stanbic (77-75) and NBK (62-48) further underscore their current form and readiness for the BAL challenge. The team’s coach, Brad Ibs, has expressed considerable enthusiasm, stating, “The team looks awesome, and I can’t wait to play. It’s a huge honor to represent Kenya. We plan to maintain a strong defense, execute aggressive attacks, and play cohesively as a unit.”

He also acknowledged the strength of their opponents in the Nile Conference, noting, “Every team in our group is tough and boasts talented players, so we will approach each game with respect.” Nairobi City Thunder is scheduled to arrive in Kigali on May 14 in preparation for the conference’s tip-off.

BAL President Amadou Gallo Fall is excited about new teams like Nairobi City Thunder joining. Photo courtesy.

BAL’s Impact, Growth, and Future Aspirations

Amadou Gallo Fall, the president of the Basketball Africa League, has expressed his excitement about the inclusion of new teams like Nairobi City Thunder in the league. He stated, “The addition of a new team and country to the BAL signifies our continued growth and expansion. I had the opportunity to watch Nairobi City Thunder during the qualifying rounds, and it’s fantastic to see Kenya’s basketball program making significant strides.”

He also commended the team’s ownership for their ambitious vision. While Kigali has previously hosted playoff games, this year marks its first time hosting a group stage, a change that Amadou believes will not diminish the enthusiastic atmosphere.

“Rwanda has embraced the BAL wholeheartedly over the past five years. The fans are incredibly supportive, and with the introduction of new teams, we anticipate an electrifying environment,” he commented.

Looking towards the future, Amadou shared some of his aspirations for the league, including the potential introduction of a BAL All-Star game. “We are always looking for ways to enhance the league’s excitement and appeal. It’s simply a matter of identifying the opportune moment to implement such initiatives,” he added.