The highly anticipated final was played on Sunday, May 31, 2026, in front of thousands of passionate fans who filled the arena to capacity, hoping to see the Rwandan side make history.
Petro de Luanda made a dominant start to the game, with players such as Abou Bacar Pedro Gakou leading the charge. The Angolan champions quickly established control and opened up a commanding lead, scoring 20 points before RSSB Tigers found their rhythm.
As the first quarter progressed, RSSB Tigers gradually settled into the contest through the efforts of Leonard Craig Randall II and Dieudonné Ndayisaba Ndizeye. Despite the improvement, the Rwandan side trailed 27-16 at the end of the opening quarter.
The second quarter saw a remarkable turnaround from RSSB Tigers. Inspired by the outstanding performances of Axel Olenga Mpoyo and Leonard Craig Randall II, who repeatedly punished Petro de Luanda from beyond the three-point line, the hosts mounted an impressive comeback.
Their attacking display helped them overturn the deficit and take control of the game, heading into halftime with a 42-37 lead.
Petro de Luanda responded strongly after the break, determined to erase the gap. Led by experienced center Yanick Moreira, the Angolan side kept the pressure on throughout the third quarter. However, RSSB Tigers remained resilient and managed to maintain a narrow advantage, ending the quarter ahead 61-59.
The final quarter delivered all the drama expected from a championship game. Petro de Luanda continued their comeback and briefly regained the lead, putting the Rwandan champions under intense pressure.
But RSSB Tigers refused to surrender. Once again, Leonard Craig Randall II stepped up with crucial three-pointers at key moments, inspiring his team to regain the advantage.
After a tense finish, RSSB Tigers held on to secure a dramatic 90-88 victory, sparking wild celebrations inside BK Arena.
The triumph marks a historic achievement for both RSSB Tigers and Rwandan basketball, as the club becomes the first team from Rwanda to win the Basketball Africa League title.
Individual accolades also followed the team’s success. Leonard Craig Randall II was named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the tournament following his outstanding performances throughout the competition, while Muthiang Mangokearned recognition as the league’s Best Defensive Player.
The victory represents a landmark moment for basketball in Rwanda and further highlights the country's growing influence on the African sporting landscape. With President Kagame among those in attendance, the historic triumph will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the greatest achievements in Rwandan basketball history.
RSSB Tigers Defeat Petro de Luanda to Bring BAL Trophy Home to Rwanda