The Ministry of Sports has given a green light to basketball fans to attend matches ahead of the forthcoming first edition of the Basketball Africa League (BAL) which kicks off on Sunday, May 16 at Kigali Arena.

The two-week tournament — the first professional league sanctioned by the NBA outside North America — will see 12 clubs from 12 different African countries rub shoulders in Kigali.

The competition’s inaugural season was due last year, but it was postponed twice because of the Covid-19 pandemic.

In an exclusive interview with Times Sport, the Minister of Sports, Aurore Mimosa Munyangaju underlined that although spectators will be allowed at Kigali Arena, Covid-19 preventive measures shall not be compromised.

"Fans are allowed at the Arena. However, every fan will only be allowed to watch a match after showing a Covid-19 negative test,” she said, adding that "all other preventive measures like wearing of facemasks and social distancing among others will be strictly followed.”

This publication has learned that BAL tickets are in three categories; Rwf10,000, Rwf7,000 and Rwf5,000.

Munyagaju also highlighted that it is a privilege that Rwanda will be represented, by Patriots Basketball Club, in the competition, therefore, urging Rwandans to show unwavering support to the team.

Patriots will play their first game this Sunday against Nigerian champions Rivers Hoopers.