2026 BAL Season: An Expanded and Thrilling Schedule
The 2026 Basketball Africa League (BAL) season is set to tip off on March 27 at the SunBet Arena in Pretoria, South Africa. This season marks the sixth edition of the competition, and it promises to deliver even more thrilling basketball action as 12 top club teams from across 12 African countries compete for the 2026 BAL Championship. The regular season will feature 42 games in three host cities: Pretoria, South Africa, Rabat, Morocco, and Kigali, Rwanda.
Teams and Structure:
The 12 teams will be split into two conferences, with each team facing the other five teams in their conference once during the group phase. The Kalahari Conference group phase will be held from March 27 to April 5 in Pretoria, while the Sahara Conference group phase will take place from April 24 to May 3 at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex in Rabat, Morocco. Following the group phase, the top eight teams will qualify for the playoffs, which will be held in Kigali, Rwanda from May 22 to 31.
BAL’s Growing Impact Across Africa
Amadou Gallo Fall, President of the BAL, expressed excitement over the return to South Africa, Morocco, and Rwanda, highlighting the strong sporting cultures and growing basketball ecosystems in these countries. He said, “The BAL continues to inspire fans across the continent and drive opportunities and global recognition for African talent.”
This year, the BAL will also celebrate the convergence of basketball and African culture, with a rich blend of music, fashion, and entertainment. The season will feature appearances from celebrities, influencers, and fans alike, creating a unique experience that goes beyond basketball.
Development Programs and Social Impact
In addition to the games, the BAL will host a variety of basketball development programs in the host countries, as well as Egypt, Kenya, Nigeria, and Senegal. This includes youth, coach, and referee clinics, children’s literacy initiatives, and media networking events. Furthermore, the BAL4HER platform will continue to promote gender equality in African sports, offering camps and workshops for young women across the continent.
Key Dates and Final Showdown
The 2026 BAL season will culminate with the finals in Kigali, Rwanda, on May 31, where the champions of both conferences will battle for the prestigious title. The competition this year promises to be tougher than ever, with teams like Zamalek, Petro de Luanda, and US Monastir aiming to dethrone the reigning champions from Al Ahly Tripoli, who won their first BAL title in 2025.
The 2026 BAL season promises to be a major milestone for African basketball. With the growing investment in sports infrastructure and grassroots development, the league continues to build on its legacy as a powerful force for sports and social change in Africa. Fans across the continent can look forward to another unforgettable season, with electrifying matches and inspiring athletes pushing the boundaries of African basketball.
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