In a highly anticipated game held at BK Arena and attended by President Paul Kagame and First Lady Jeannette Kagame, APR Basketball Club faced its first defeat in the BAL 2025 Nile Conference. The Rwandan side lost to Al Ahli Tripoli of Libya with a final score of 90 to 68. Although the loss was disappointing for APR fans, the match served as a mirror reflecting the team’s current level and highlighting what still needs improvement for it to become a continental powerhouse.
APR BBC started the game strongly, showing determination and a winning spirit. With the height advantage of Youssoupha Ndoye and the skill of Obadiah Noel, the Rwandan team took early control of the game and ended the first quarter in the lead. Their teamwork and solid defense showed that APR could compete with the top teams on the continent.
However, the experience and composure of Al Ahli Tripoli began to show in the second quarter, especially through the performances of Caleb Agada and Jean Jacques Boissy. The Libyan team gradually closed the gap and went into halftime with a one-point lead.
In the third quarter, APR continued to show fighting spirit but lacked cohesion. Al Ahli Tripoli took over by scoring quick points and capitalizing on APR’s mistakes, particularly in transition defense and turnovers.
By the final quarter, APR BBC appeared fatigued, while Al Ahli Tripoli kept up a high pace and finished the game strongly, securing a 90-68 victory and a ticket to the BAL playoffs set to take place in South Africa.
While this loss was unexpected, it represents an important learning step for APR BBC. Playing in front of the President highlighted how seriously Rwanda takes basketball, and as a team representing the nation in this prestigious tournament, APR has a foundation to build on.
What’s crucial is that APR BBC has the potential to compete, but it needs better preparation, patience, and continued development.
In their next game on Thursday, APR will face Made In Basketball Club. This is a crucial match that could determine much about the team’s future in this tournament.
