The 2025 Basketball Africa League (BAL) promises a unique blend of intense basketball action and captivating live performances by some of Africa’s top musical talents, highlighting the continent's vibrant culture and artistry.
Celebrating the impact of BAL in transforming sports in Africa, the event will feature live performances from notable African artists.
Among the headliners is King Promise, a Ghanaian Afrobeats sensation celebrated internationally for hits like "Terminator," "CCTV," and "Tokyo." With a global fanbase, King Promise is set to enthrall audiences with his talent.
Joining him is Rwanda’s own Ariel Wayz, an icon in the local music scene, renowned for her stellar vocal prowess and engaging stage presence. Following her recent debut album "Hear to Stay", she’s geared to deliver an unforgettable performance.
Kivumbi King, an acclaimed rapper and lyricist from Rwanda, will represent Hip Hop at BAL, known for his impactful lyrics and compelling rhymes.
Adding excitement to the halftime entertainment lineup is Kid from Kigali, a rising Rwandan star, performing during the game between Nairobi City Thunder (Kenya) and Made in Africa Basketball (South Africa) on May 20, 2025.
On the same day, fans can look forward to a thrilling matchup between APR (Rwanda) and Al Ahli SC (Libya) at 7 PM.
Top Teams Competing in BAL 2025
The BAL 2025 season features a total of 12 basketball teams from across Africa, divided into three groups:
- Nile Conference (Kigali): APR (Rwanda), Al Ahli SC (Libya), Nairobi City Thunder (Kenya), Made in Africa Basketball (South Africa).
- Sahara Conference (Dakar): Petro de Luanda (Angola), US Monastir (Tunisia), ASC Ville de Dakar (Senegal), Kriol Star Basketball (Cape Verde).
- Kalahari Conference (Rabat): Rivers Hoopers (Nigeria), Stade Malien (Mali), FUS Rabat (Morocco), Al Ittihad (Egypt).
These teams will battle for a coveted spot in the finals scheduled for June 14, 2025, in South Africa.
Celebrating BAL: Africa’s Basketball Evolution
Launched in 2019 through a partnership between NBA and FIBA, the BAL has played a crucial role in advancing basketball across the continent, offering African athletes the platform to showcase their skills and achieve global recognition.
Combining high-quality sports with cultural elements, the BAL stands as a symbol of unity and excellence in Africa.
Be Part of the Action
Tickets for games at BK Arena are now available through ticqet.rw, with various pricing options to suit fans. Don't miss an extraordinary opportunity to enjoy premier basketball and live music performances that connect Africa through sports and culture.
Spotlight on King Promise: The BAL 2025 Headliner
Gregory Bortey Promise Newman, known professionally as King Promise, is a Ghanaian singer-songwriter from Nungua, Accra.
Born on August 16, 1995, he studied at De Kings Academy, Nungua Senior High School, and Central University, where he earned a degree in business administration.
King Promise emerged in 2016 with the hit "Thank God", featuring Fuse ODG. By 2017, he became a household name with tracks like "Oh Yeah", "Selfish", and "CCTV" featuring Sarkodie and Mugeez.
His discography includes three albums: "As Promised" (2019), "5 Star" (2022), and "True To Self" (2024), with tracks like "Paris," "Continental" (featuring Shallipopi), and "Permission Granted" (featuring Fave).
His 2023 single "Terminator" went viral, earning over a million TikTok plays and crossing 200 million streams on major platforms. Remixes featuring Young Jonn, Tiwa Savage, and Sean Paul further cemented its popularity.
King Promise has collaborated with top artists including Wizkid, Sarkodie, Mr Eazi, R2Bees, Headie One, Patoranking, and Camidoh, contributing to the worldwide success of "Sugarcane (Remix)" with Mayorkun and Darkoo.
Awarded 3Music Awards and Vodafone Ghana Music Awards, his hit "Terminator" claimed "Song of the Year" at the 2024 3Music Awards. Now signed to 5K Records in partnership with Sony Music UK, King Promise is extending his global reach.
King Promise is set to return to Kigali after his debut on November 11, 2023, ready to deliver another unforgettable show.
Kivumbi King, fresh off the release of his track "Ola", will bring his unique artistry to the BAL games.
Ariel Wayz will also deliver hits from her recently launched album.
Rising artist Kid from Kigali will showcase his talent, amplifying Rwanda’s growing influence in music.
