Tigers Basketball Club have extended the contracts of four senior players, including star center Pitchou Manga, Times Sport can exclusively confirm. The Congolese center has committed his future to the Tigers until the end of the 2026 season. The club has also handed one-year contract extensions to point guard Lars Ishimwe, shooting guard Herve Ikishatse and small forward Fiston Irutingabo. Confirming the extensions, Tigers president Francis Shyaka said that the club has already begun preparations for the upcoming Rwanda Basketball League season, which commences on January 24. “We started training on Monday, and the players have responded well after a short holiday,” Shyaka told Times Sport. “We want to fight next season, particularly in the league, and that requires a lot of work in preparation.” Tigers are looking to build momentum ahead of the new campaign, having recently strengthened their squad with the acquisition of forward Steven Hagumintwari and Kenyan-American guard Albert Odero. The club also hired Kenny Gasana to join Henry Mwinuka’s technical staff as assistant coach. ALSO READ: Tigers acquire Kenyan-American guard Albert Odero ALSO READ: Basketball: Kenny Gasana joins Tigers as assistant coach The club finished the regular season of the 2025 Rwanda Basketball League in fifth place but are aiming for an improved campaign after lifting the Rwanda Cup last season.
