Rwanda Basketball League reigning champions APR men’s basketball club will begin their title defense against newcomers Kepler when the 2024 Rwanda Basketball League campaign tips off Friday, February 9.

The game, which will take place at Lycée de Kigali (LDK) Gymnasium, is one of the fixtures scheduled on the opening day of the league, as per the new season fixture calendar released by the local basketball governing body (FERWABA).

APR brought their 14-year title jinx to an end after a 4-0 sweep over rivals Rwanda Energy Group (REG) in the finals to win the 2023 Rwanda Basketball League championship which earned them an automatic ticket to the Basketball Africa League (BAL) 2024.

American coach Mazen Trakh was the man behind the military side’s glory and he is now eyeing an era of dominance ahead of the new season.

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In other fixtures, Inspired Generation will visit 2023 runners-up REG at Lycee de Kigali Gymnasium while, at the same ground, Espoir will open their campaign against United Generation Basketball (UGB) on Saturday, February 10.

The biggest match of the season, arguably Rwanda’s most famous derby so far, will see REG go head to head with Patriots on March 15 at Lycee de Kigali Gymnasium.

The league season will conclude in September.