The Patriots are poised to reignite their rivalry with APR BBC in the Rwanda Basketball League. With both teams currently boasting unbeaten records of six games, the Patriots will be eager to halt APR’s streak of 14 undefeated games in the league, which includes a three-game sweep by APR in last season’s playoffs.
On March 20, 2024, basketball fans in Rwanda are gearing up for an intense match as the Patriots prepare to face off against APR Basketball Club. The anticipation is palpable, especially for Patriots fans who are seeking redemption after suffering a humiliating sweep at the hands of APR in the previous season.
Both sides have made substantial roster adjustments. As a result, the Patriots and APR now have the league’s most fearsome squads. Their 6-0 unblemished record reflects their league domination; yet, APR has a tiny goal differential advantage over Patriots.
For Patriots fans, this game represents more than just a chance to even the score with their rivals; it’s an opportunity to showcase their team’s resilience and determination to claim victory.
The Patriots ended up in fourth place last season after forfeiting their third-place playoff game against Espoir. This forfeiture came after enduring a frustrating three-game sweep against APR.
All attention will be focused on Michael Andre Dixon Jr, who arrived in Kigali last season to play for the Patriots. However, the American point guard and 2022 Basketball Africa League MVP suffered an injury during a regular season game against APR, with hopes of returning for the playoffs.
Dixon, now playing for APR, did not participate in the playoffs amid much drama and speculation surrounding his rumored agreement to join APR at the end of the season. Consequently, the Patriots were swept in the playoffs as they lacked an alternative for his position.
Dixon teams up with Adonis Filer, currently the league’s top scorer and most efficient player, to create the most formidable backcourt duo in the country.
On the other hand, the Patriots rely on versatile point guard William Perry, who demonstrated his impressive abilities against REG BBC. Additionally, new Serbian center Nikola Scekic seeks to establish himself in the league after a disappointing debut against REG BBC.
William Kiah Perry looks forward to continue his outstanding form as he tops both the three-point shooter chart and the league in assists.
Ahead of their clash with league giants APR, the Patriots have secured six consecutive wins in the league. Henry Mwinuka’s team is determined to make it seven in a row with definitive victories over their rivals, REG and APR.
APR’s last defeat in the Rwanda Basketball League took place on August 11, 2023, against their upcoming opponent, the Patriots. As APR strives to maintain its leading position in the league, rumors suggest that the team has recruited former Dynamo center, Israel Oyoro Otobo, adding to the anticipation surrounding the matchup.
Since arriving in Rwanda, Coach Maz Trakh has suffered just one defeat in the Rwanda Basketball League, maintaining an impressive unbeaten run of 14 league games. Tomorrow, his team will face the squad that handed him his only loss during his time with APR, heightening the anticipation for the Wednesday match.
The rivalry between APR and the Patriots intensified last season as both teams competed fiercely to overthrow REG BBC. APR ultimately asserted its dominance by clinching the title, ending a 14-year wait for championship glory.
The quest for the league title in Rwanda has elevated the competition to new heights since the inception of the Basketball Africa League. In addition to the prestige, winning the league title in Rwanda also comes with significant financial rewards, enabling teams to better prepare for the responsibility of representing the country as flag bearers.
The race for the championship begins during the regular season as teams aim to secure the top playoff seeds.
Basketball devotees will enthusiastically anticipate this game, not just for the rivalry but also the opportunity to witness the pinnacle of the Rwanda Basketball League.
Lycée de Kigali will host this mouth-watering clash at 7p.m. local time
