The second day of the 2025 Basketball Africa League (BAL) Kalahari Conference saw thrilling action, with Egypt’s Al Ittihad securing a 72-69 victory over Mali’s Stade Malien and Nigeria’s Rivers Hoopers edging past Morocco’s FUS Rabat 88-82. With both teams now sitting at 2-0, Al Ittihad and Rivers Hoopers lead the conference, while Stade Malien and FUS Rabat are still seeking their first victories in the competition.

In a closely contested matchup, Egypt’s Al Ittihad managed to hold off Stade Malien for a 72-69 win. Majok Deng was the standout performer for Al Ittihad, scoring 21 points to lead his team to victory. Their efficient offense proved to be the key factor in the game, as they capitalized on every opportunity to pull ahead. Despite a strong performance from Cartier Diarra, who scored 19 points for Stade Malien, it wasn’t enough to overcome the Egyptian team’s precise offensive execution.
Rivers Hoopers Edge FUS Rabat in Intense Contest
In the day’s second game, Rivers Hoopers of Nigeria overcame FUS Rabat 88-82 in another tightly contested battle. Madut Akec was exceptional for the Hoopers, finishing with 25 points and eight rebounds. Peter Olisemeka played a critical role in the Hoopers’ success, recording a game-high 14 rebounds, helping his team dominate on the glass. Despite Rabat’s defensive efforts, which included six blocked shots, the Hoopers capitalized on their ability to control the rebounding battle, securing a 43-36 advantage. Both teams shot well from the field, but it was the Hoopers’ superior rebounding and offensive balance that ultimately tipped the scales in their favor.
Looking Ahead: Malien and Rabat Eye First Wins
As the competition continues, Stade Malien and FUS Rabat will look to regroup and find their first win when they face each other tomorrow. Rivers Hoopers will look to maintain their unbeaten run as they take on Al Ittihad in what promises to be another exciting match in the Kalahari Conference.
With two straight wins, both Rivers Hoopers and Al Ittihad have set the pace, but the road ahead remains tough as the other teams will undoubtedly come out fighting for a chance to make their mark on the 2025 BAL season.