Wednesday, September 11

Game 1: Patriots vs APR (BK Arena)

Tipoff: 7pm CAT

The real battle for the Rwanda Basketball League championship begin today, September 11, when two domestic league heavyweights, APR and Patriots, rub shoulders in Game 1 at BK Arena.

Basketball returns to BK Arena, considering that the matchup could attract a bigger turnout, considering the fan base that the two sides have at their disposal.

ALSO READ: Betpawa playoffs: APR, Patriots set date for finals

APR want to retain the championship they won in 2023 after ending their 14-year jinx. But they have Henry Mwinuka and Patriots in their way.

Patriots beat APR across two rounds of the regular season and Mwinuka wants to keep his winning blue print valid during the playoffs as he seeks to return club back to the continent’s biggest stage — Basketball Africa League(BAL)—which they have not been to since participating in the inaugural season in 2021.

Both sides made it to the finals after sweeping Kepler and Rwanda Energy Group (REG) respectively in the betPawa playoffs semifinals.

The Will vs Isaiah show

Patriots have got Will Perry but APR too are rolling with new boy Isaiah Miller whose style has left so many entertained with his wise drives and shooting.

Miller made top plays during the pair’s most recent game in August but it was Perry who came on top as he inspired Patriots to a 77-70 victory.

The recent signing of Stephaun Branch has significantly boosted Patriots’ performance over the recent games and he was a real threat for APR when the two side last met.

But Miller will also be glad to have star center Aliou Diarra by his side as they hope to destroy their rivals during the finals.

Who will win the championship? All eyes on the finals!