The sixth season of the Basketball Africa League (BAL), often dubbed the “NBA of the continent,” is set to begin this weekend, promising another exciting chapter in the growth of African basketball. Twelve teams will compete for the championship, split into two conferences – Kalahari in South Africa and Sahara in Morocco – as they vie to succeed Libya’s Al Ahli Tripoli, the 2025 BAL champions, who will not be participating this year. The league’s continued development and the aspirations of its players, including those hoping to reach the NBA, are central themes as the competition unfolds.
Modern Contenders and a Familiar MVP
Al Ahli Benghazi, representing Libya, enters the competition with ambitions of lifting the trophy. They’ll be relying heavily on the skills of Jean-Jacques Boissy, the reigning BAL MVP from last season when he played for Al Ahli Tripoli. The Senegalese point guard is poised to be a key player for Benghazi as they begin their campaign in Pretoria this weekend. Boissy, a graduate of the NBA Academy Africa, has quickly become a standout talent in African basketball.
The BAL continues to expand its reach, and this season sees representation from nations eager to make their mark. The Kings of Abidjan from Côte d’Ivoire will be making their debut in the league, hoping to become the first team from Francophone sub-Saharan Africa to win the BAL title. They will begin play later in April in Rabat, Morocco.
Expanding Francophone Representation
Alongside the Kings of Abidjan, the ASC Ville de Dakar from Senegal will also compete in the 2026 BAL season. While Dakar participated in the previous season, this year marks a significant opportunity for both teams to showcase the talent emerging from Francophone Africa. The presence of these teams underscores the BAL’s commitment to broadening its geographic representation and fostering basketball development across the continent.
The Path to the NBA: A Growing Pipeline
The BAL isn’t just about crowning a champion; it’s also increasingly viewed as a crucial stepping stone for African players hoping to reach the NBA. The league provides a high-level platform for showcasing talent to scouts and executives from North America. The story of Kaman Maluach, a South Sudanese player who has recently begun his journey in the United States, exemplifies this pathway. His development through the BAL has drawn attention and opened doors to opportunities in the NBA.
However, the league faces challenges. Reports indicate the BAL is currently navigating budgetary difficulties, a factor that could impact its long-term sustainability. Despite these hurdles, the league remains committed to its mission of developing basketball talent and providing a pathway to professional opportunities for African players.
Boissy’s Continued Success
Jean-Jacques Boissy’s journey has been remarkable. According to Wikipedia, the 6’2” point guard was born in Dakar, Senegal, on January 28, 2000. He has played professionally since 2021, and his accolades include the 2025 BAL championship and MVP award. He also holds the record for the most points in an AfroBasket game, with 40. Boissy’s success extends to the international stage, where he led Senegal to a bronze medal at the 2025 AfroBasket tournament.
Boissy’s father, Elysee Boissy, is a former Senegal national team player, adding to the family’s basketball legacy. The younger Boissy’s dedication and skill have made him a focal point for both his club teams and the Senegalese national team. He is currently playing for Al Ahli Tripoli of the Libyan Division I Basketball League, but was previously with Windy City Bulls in the NBA G League.
Looking Ahead
The 2026 BAL season promises to be a compelling showcase of African basketball talent. With new teams entering the fray and established stars like Jean-Jacques Boissy leading the charge, the competition is expected to be fierce. The league’s ability to overcome its financial challenges and continue providing a platform for players to develop and pursue their dreams will be crucial to its long-term success. The question remains: who will succeed Al Ahli Tripoli as BAL champions?
The season’s opening weekend will provide early answers and set the stage for a thrilling competition. Fans can follow the action and stay updated on the latest news and scores through the BAL’s official channels.
