Al Ahli Tripoli claimed their maiden Basketball Africa League (BAL) championship with an impressive 88–67 victory over Angola’s Petro de Luanda at Pretoria’s SunBet Arena on June 14

For the first time in BAL history, a Libyan team lifted the title. The win also marked the first time a conference-winning team (Nile Conference) secured the championship as also APR BBC became 3rd from the same conference.

Al Ahli dominated from the opening minutes, with Jaylen Adams knocking down an early three-pointer and setting the tone. They entered the second quarter ahead 27–19, and never lost control. By halftime, they led 43–38, and in the final period pulled away to build a lead as high as 23 points

Center Assem Marei was named Finals MVP after an outstanding performance of 22 points and 19 rebounds He was ably supported by Fabian White Jr. (18 points, nine rebounds) and Jean-Jacques Boissy (12 points, MVP of the season)

Petro de Luanda were aiming to become the first team to repeat as BAL champions, received key contributions off the bench from Aboubacar Gakou (12 points), Patrick Gardner (11), and Childe Dundao (11).But they were ultimately outmatched by Tripoli’s athleticism and depth.

Coach Fouad Abou Chacra guided Tripoli to a 9–1 overall record, including an unbeaten run through the Nile Conference and playoffs, earning him BAL Coach of the Year honors .

With the championship, Al Ahli Tripoli also secured a place in the 2025 FIBA Intercontinental Cup in Singapore.This cup is one of the reason teams fight hard to win BAL championship, as it helps African teams to compete internationally.

Al Ahli Tripoli’s milestone win has elevated Libyan basketball onto the African stage. Their historic journey from Nile Conference winners to BAL champions,marks them as one of the continent’s elites.