Latest news with #BAL
Associated Press
27-06-2025
- Sport
- Associated Press
Ivan Almeida and Other BAL Standouts Who Deserve a Summer League Shot
Ivan and Joel Almeida BAL stars shined in 2025, but 36-year-old Ivan Almeida stood out. A leader on and off the court, he proves age doesn't define value. He deserves a spot in NBA Summer League. As the 2025 BAL season concluded, the spotlight on incredible African talent grew brighter. With the NBA Summer League set for July 10–20 in Las Vegas, several BAL athletes — rising stars and seasoned pros — have made a compelling case for inclusion: But standing out most of all is Ivan Almeida, the Cape-Verdian athlete whose impact defies his age. Why Almeida Belongs in Vegas • Ever‑present leader: At 36, he led not only in minutes per game (37.5) — the most in BAL this season — but also anchored Kriol Star on both ends of the floor, defensively and offensively. • He is a statistical all‑rounder: Averaged 17.3 PPG, 10.1 RPG, 5.4 APG, and led the league with 48 free throws made (81.4%). He even notched his first-career triple-double, while juggling four positions in a short‑handed roster. • Almeida's leadership is inspiring: A co‑founder, with his brother and teammate Joel, of Kriol Star — a team rooted in charity and community transformation. That mission-driven foundation underscores leadership beyond the court. • Breaking conventional barriers: Summer League is traditionally a showcase for youth. Almeida's inclusion would send a bold message: performance, heart, and leadership remain valuable, no matter the age. From Boissy's two-way dominance to Diarra's rim protection, and Lenard Jr.'s versatility, the BAL is packed with players deserving of NBA attention. But Almeida isn't just another athlete: He's a symbol of resilience, versatility, and purpose. If the Summer League champions excellence and if it's meant to recognize both potential and performance, then inviting Ivan Almeida would be more than a reward. It would be a statement. Because basketball isn't just about where you're going. It's also about how far you've come and who you uplift along the way. Media Contact Company Name: SNW Contact Person: John Dixon Email: Send Email Country: United States Website: Press Release Distributed by To view the original version on ABNewswire visit: Ivan Almeida and Other BAL Standouts Who Deserve a Summer League Shot
Globe and Mail
26-06-2025
- Sport
- Globe and Mail
Ivan Almeida and Other BAL Standouts Who Deserve a Summer League Shot
BAL stars shined in 2025, but 36-year-old Ivan Almeida stood out. A leader on and off the court, he proves age doesn't define value. He deserves a spot in NBA Summer League. As the 2025 BAL season concluded, the spotlight on incredible African talent grew brighter. With the NBA Summer League set for July 10–20 in Las Vegas, several BAL athletes — rising stars and seasoned pros — have made a compelling case for inclusion: Jean Jacques Boissy (Al Ahli Tripoli): BAL champion, 2025 MVP, scoring and defensive leader: An elite two-way guard with poise and measurable upside. Babacar Sané (US Monastir): An explosive wing and former Ignite/G-League prospect, named All‑BAL Second Team and reportedly headed to Summer League with Minnesota. Aliou Diarra (APR): Two‑time Defensive Player of the Year, league‑leading rebounder and rim protector with a 55.7% FG rate — ready for higher-level competition. Majok Deng (Al Ittihad Alexandria): A stretch forward with modern versatility — shooting, defense, and clutch play — named to All‑BAL First Team. Taefale Lenard Jr. (MBB): A dynamic, two‑way wing already in All‑BAL First and Defensive Teams — brings energy and athleticism. Mohamed Sadi (Al Ahli Tripoli): Two‑way guard with composure and defensive acumen, earning All‑BAL Second and Defensive Team honors. But standing out most of all is Ivan Almeida, the Cape-Verdian athlete whose impact defies his age. Why Almeida Belongs in Vegas • Ever‑present leader: At 36, he led not only in minutes per game (37.5) — the most in BAL this season — but also anchored Kriol Star on both ends of the floor, defensively and offensively. • He is a statistical all‑rounder: Averaged 17.3 PPG, 10.1 RPG, 5.4 APG, and led the league with 48 free throws made (81.4%). He even notched his first-career triple-double, while juggling four positions in a short‑handed roster. • Almeida's leadership is inspiring: A co‑founder, with his brother and teammate Joel, of Kriol Star — a team rooted in charity and community transformation. That mission-driven foundation underscores leadership beyond the court. • Breaking conventional barriers: Summer League is traditionally a showcase for youth. Almeida's inclusion would send a bold message: performance, heart, and leadership remain valuable, no matter the age. From Boissy's two-way dominance to Diarra's rim protection, and Lenard Jr.'s versatility, the BAL is packed with players deserving of NBA attention. But Almeida isn't just another athlete: He's a symbol of resilience, versatility, and purpose. If the Summer League champions excellence and if it's meant to recognize both potential and performance, then inviting Ivan Almeida would be more than a reward. It would be a statement. Because basketball isn't just about where you're going. It's also about how far you've come and who you uplift along the way.
TimesLIVE
24-06-2025
- Entertainment
- TimesLIVE
BAL x Hennessy: A night of cultural celebration
The Basketball Africa League (BAL) is the premier men's basketball league in Africa, which typically runs each season from March to June and consists of 12 teams. This time the BAL took place from June 6 to 14 at the SunBet arena in Pretoria, featuring eight teams from across the continent. In a thrilling finale, Al Ahli Tripoli from Libya emerged victorious, defeating Petro de Luanda from Angola in the championship game on Saturday. As part of its partnership, Hennessy brought together prominent figures, including Phindile Gwala, Gugu Nyatsumba and Kamo Modisakeng to name just a few, to celebrate the rich cultural diversity of the continent through the universal language of sports. We chatted to Lungile Mpharu, Hennessy Brand Manager, to discuss the luxury cognac brand's collaboration with BAL. He said that Hennessy and BAL share many values — a commitment to excellence, self-expression, and crafting experiences that transcend their core offerings. The partnership is about amplifying the energy of the BAL and intentionally enhancing the overall fan experience. 'For Hennessy, the BAL aligned with our legacy of partnering with platforms that shape culture. The opening weekend gave us a chance to contribute authentically, through curated experiences that are rooted in who we are. Whether it was the elevated lounge environment or how we engaged with friends of the house, our approach was to enhance the overall experience, and basketball, particularly through how BAL is opening new ways for people to connect across borders,' he said. We caught up with celebrities and influencers who attended the BAL event to get their take on the exciting fusion of basketball and African culture. South African actress Phindile Gwala said the atmosphere during halftime was fantastic, and it was heartening to see young people showing an increased interest in basketball. The growing enthusiasm from young people indicates a brighter future for basketball in our country and across the continent. She added that the event emphasised inclusivity and highlighted Africa's potential in the sports industry, which can contribute to both global sports and the economy. 'We need more championships like this to nurture our African spirit and grow our economy.'
IOL News
23-06-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Shauwn Mkhize's luxurious getaway and girl time with Tarina Patel
Former reality TV star Shauwn 'Mam' Mkhize' Mkhize recently made a rare public appearance at the 2025 Basketball Africa League (BAL). Image: Instagram/kwa_mammkhize South African businesswoman and former reality TV star Shauwn 'MaMkhize' Mkhize is focusing on the positives in her life and spending time with those closest to her. Last week, news broke that MaMkhize's flashy car collection will be going up for auction, as part of an ongoing legal battle with the South African Revenue Service. The stylish media personality has been out of the spotlight most of 2025 due to her legal woes with the taxman, but is slowly returning to actively posting on Instagram. Living positively, Mkhize shared moments from her stay at the Shekinah Lion Game Lodge, where one can stay in luxurious predator suites that place you close to majestic lions and tigers. 'There's a lion in every woman who refuses to give up. We rise together🦁✨ Keep shining, your win is unfolding,' she captioned her post. Mamkhize shared a video of her at the Pfamoni Sahara Suite within the Shekinah Lion & Game Lodge. A stay with the dangerous predators costs R12,500 per couple per night for Monday to Thursday, and R15,000 per couple per night for Friday to Sunday, according to their Instagram account. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ The relaxation hasn't stopped with fancy vacation time, but Mamkhize has also been spending time with actors and movie producer Tarina Patel and Zodwa Mkandla, a prominent Zimbabwean businesswoman and philanthropist. The 'Kwa Mam'Mkhize' star and her girlfriends treated themselves to a luxury spa, which was done in the comfort of her home. Sharing moments from the girls' home spa day, all three ladies were dressed in Versace gowns, which retail from R10 900 up to R24 200, according to the Versace website. Earlier this month, she made an appearance courtside at the 2025 Basketball Africa League (BAL) dressed warmly in a huge fur coat. IOL Entertainment
Newsweek
18-06-2025
- Business
- Newsweek
Why Is the NBA Partnering With the UAE and Rwanda? Both Are Accused of Fueling Massive Humanitarian Crises
As the National Basketball Association (NBA) playoffs heat up, there is much to be excited about regarding the league's future. Television ratings are up, multiple young stars compete to be the next face of the league, and partnerships with other countries are deepening, opening doors to new audiences and corporate sponsorships. On the surface, these kinds of arrangements seem like a win-win for everyone. NBA spokespeople point to the NBA's investment in youth basketball leagues and clinics in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Rwanda, as well as to basketball infrastructure like courts and arenas. Front view of the NBA store on 5th Avenue in Midtown Manhattan, New York City. Front view of the NBA store on 5th Avenue in Midtown Manhattan, New York City. Getty Images The UAE has invested heavily in the NBA, fully sponsoring the in-season tournament now called the Emirates NBA Cup in a deal reportedly worth $500 million. The UAE also hosts the annual preseason NBA Abu Dhabi Games, with the New York Knicks and Philadelphia 76ers slated to appear in October 2025. Meanwhile, Rwanda has been a lynchpin for the Basketball Africa League (BAL), the NBA's first professional basketball league outside of North America. The Rwandan government pays several million dollars to the NBA to host the BAL playoffs in its new arena in the capital of Kigali, as well as to be a general sponsor of the league. Probe beneath the surface of what else these two governments are involved in, however, and another story emerges. The UAE and Rwanda are presently sponsoring deadly rebel groups in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), respectively, directly fueling two of the largest humanitarian crises in the world. Nearly 20 million people have been displaced from their homes in these two conflicts. In Sudan, the UAE is backing the insurgent Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a militia that the United States in January determined committed genocide and that now controls wide swathes of the country, thanks to generous military support from the Emirates. As Secretary of State Marco Rubio told the Senate in his confirmation hearing, "In part of our engagement with the UAE, we need to raise the fact that they are openly supporting an entity that is carrying out a genocide [in Sudan]." In the DRC, Rwanda invaded with up to 12,000 troops in January and since 2022 has militarily supported the M23 militia, which has taken over wide swathes of eastern DRC. The human costs of these conflicts is staggering, with 12 million people displaced in Sudan and 8 million in the DRC, 30 million in need of emergency aid in Sudan and 28 million in the DRC, and thousands of child soldiers in both conflicts. The UAE and Rwanda are benefiting financially from these military interventions, with billions of dollars of illicit gold flowing from Sudan and the DRC. The Emirates imported $1 billion in gold from Sudan in 2023, and Sudan's largest mine is controlled by a UAE company linked to the royal family. In 2024, over $1.5 billion in gold was exported from Rwanda, including large amounts of conflict gold from the DRC. A Rwandan-backed militia also controls a large DRC critical minerals mine and smuggles the mineral into Rwanda. The UAE and Rwanda's partnerships with the NBA represent the very definition of sportswashing, wherein governments involved in heinous atrocities distract attention from their crimes by investing in sports teams and leagues around the world in exchange for good publicity. Today, no one from the NBA has spoken out about the human crises directly fueled by partners of the NBA. Perhaps there is simply too much money at stake. Yet given the league and many of its most prominent players' presence in social justice efforts, their silence around the violence being fueled by Rwanda and the UAE is all the more deafening. Recognizing this contradiction, U.S. senators from both parties joined together last year and wrote to the NBA, saying the league "has long positioned itself as a beacon of social justice" but has instead continued "developing relationships with dictators and despots," including Rwandan President Paul Kagame. As the NBA's association with partners who enact extraordinary human rights abuses becomes clearer, the ideal response from the league would be to cancel these relationships. Some NBA stars who have spoken out so forcefully in support of social justice causes in the U.S. could start asking questions about what the UAE and Rwanda are doing in Sudan and the DRC and shine a spotlight on the suffering of Sudanese and Congolese people. Sportswashing is all about deflecting attention away from horrors like those being perpetrated in Sudan, especially Darfur, and the eastern DRC. But if upstanding NBA players with truly global platforms redirect attention toward the massive suffering being inflicted, perhaps it would begin to affect the calculations of those responsible. John Prendergast is co-founder of The Sentry, an investigative and policy organization that seeks to disrupt predatory networks that benefit from conflict, repression, and kleptocracy. Sasha Lezhnev is senior policy advisor at The Sentry. The views expressed in this article are the writers' own.
