🏀 BAL 2025: Al Ittihad and Rivers Hoopers Advance to Playoffs After Kalahari Conference Thriller in Rabat

Rabat, Morocco – April 14, 2025 — The Basketball Africa League (BAL) Kalahari Conference group stage wrapped up with high-stakes showdowns on April 12 and 13 at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex in Rabat, Morocco. After an intense series of matchups, Egypt's Al Ittihad Alexandria and Nigeria's Rivers Hoopers emerged as the top teams, securing their places in the 2025 BAL Playoffs set to take place in Pretoria, South Africa this June.

🔥 April 12 Highlights – Al Ittihad Makes a Statement, FUS Rabat Rebounds

The action on April 12 featured two decisive fixtures that shaped the standings:

• Al Ittihad Alexandria (Egypt) 100–80 Rivers Hoopers (Nigeria)
  The Egyptian powerhouse Al Ittihad showcased their championship credentials with a dominant performance, led by a high-scoring offense that overwhelmed the Rivers Hoopers. The 20-point margin highlighted their depth, precision, and playoff readiness.

• FUS Rabat (Morocco) 92–72 Stade Malien (Mali)
  Hosts FUS Rabat delivered an energetic performance against Stade Malien, bouncing back from earlier setbacks in the tournament. The 20-point victory restored hope for the Moroccan side heading into the final group day.

🎯 April 13 Results – Rivers Hoopers Rally, Al Ittihad Remains Unbeaten

The final day of the Kalahari Conference on April 13 delivered drama and decisive moments:

• Rivers Hoopers (Nigeria) 88–82 FUS Rabat (Morocco)
  In a tightly contested battle, Rivers Hoopers edged out the hosts with a six-point win. The victory not only secured second place in the group but also demonstrated the Nigerian side’s resilience and ability to respond under pressure.

• Stade Malien (Mali) 69–72 Al Ittihad Alexandria (Egypt)
  Al Ittihad capped off an unbeaten group phase with a gritty win over Stade Malien. Despite facing fierce resistance, the Egyptians maintained composure in the closing stages to seal the win and finish top of the standings.

🏆 Kalahari Conference Standings – Who Advances?

1. Al Ittihad Alexandria (Egypt) – Undefeated

2. Rivers Hoopers (Nigeria) – Key wins secure second

3. FUS Rabat (Morocco) – Strong showing but fall short

4. Stade Malien (Mali) – Competitive yet winless in Rabat

With their performances, Al Ittihad and Rivers Hoopers have officially qualified for the BAL 2025 Playoffs, set to begin in June in Pretoria, South Africa. The playoffs will bring together the best teams from each regional conference to battle for continental basketball supremacy.

🌍 What’s Next – Sahara Conference Awaits

Fans won’t have to wait long for more top-tier African basketball. The Sahara Conference tips off next in Dakar, Senegal, running from April 26 to May 4. More teams will compete for the remaining playoff spots, promising another round of excitement on the Road to BAL 2025 Finals.