Veteran point guard Aristide Mugabe on Thursday, February 1, bade farewell to Patriots as he looks to embark on a new chapter of his career after seven successful seasons at the club.

Mugabe, 35, is understood to have joined newcomers Kepler basketball as an assistant coach and player.

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Waving goodbye to the club, Mugabe described Patriots as ‘a family’ that he was honored to be part of.

"It has been an incredible ride with my brothers, coaching staff, management and our fans. It has been an honour and blessing to be part of an incredible organization and family like the Patriots,” he posted on X.

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"Thank you to everyone that we went to battle with each day and night. I love you and respect you all. You are my brothers for life,” he added.

"To the fans, you hold a special place in my heart. Thank you for your support. I love you. The management and coaching staff, thank you for always believing in me and pushing me to be a better leader. I wish you the best and I will be forever grateful,” he noted.

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Mugabe is one of the most famous players of his generation, both on the national team and club level. He has won five championships with Patriots during his tenure with the club.

He was also part of the Patriots and only Rwanda team that reached the semifinals of the Basketball Africa League (BAL) in 2021.