BAL 2026: What's the idea behind RSSB Tigers' ‘resilience’ helmet?

When RSSB Tigers won their opening game on Friday, captain Antino Jackson Jr. stood in the locker room holding a yellow construction helmet marked with a single word “Resilience.” He placed it on the head of man of the match Mangok Mathiang as teammates cheered—a moment that has since become a defining ritual for the team. Since then, the helmet has become a norm, with Jackson Jr. crowning each standout performer after every game. The latest recipient was Teafale Lenard Jr., who delivered an impressive performance as the Tigers edged Angolan giants Petro de Luanda 82–78 on Sunday. ALSO READ: BAL 2026: Jackson Jr. hits game-winner as Tigers down Petro de Luanda Speaking to Times Sport, Jackson Jr. explained the deeper meaning behind the now-iconic helmet. “The idea behind the yellow construction helmet with the word ‘Resilient’ came from the unorthodox way we prepared to get into the BAL. We didn’t have much time, and we basically had to bring two groups together and quickly build one team for a bigger cause,” he said. The point guard said the helmet represents the team’s journey—one built under pressure and driven by determination. “The construction helmet symbolises that process of building something under pressure, and the word ‘resilience’ reflects the mindset we needed: staying strong, adapting, and pushing forward no matter the challenges,” he explained. “We wanted the helmet to be something every player could wear—a constant reminder that resilience is what carries us forward as a team.” Jackson Jr. played a decisive role in the win over Petro de Luanda, scoring the crucial four points that sealed the victory. With the two teams tied at 78-78, a magic moment arrived when he buried a three and a free throw that restored Tigers’ lead. However, the captain downplayed his personal contribution. “I’m just glad we got the win against a good team like Petro. It really speaks to the type of players we have,” he noted. “In the second half, I was sitting because other guys had it going, and that’s what matters—winning comes first, not individual stats.” “I stayed mentally locked in and was ready when my moment came. Even though things weren’t going well for me personally, I stepped up when needed. This is bigger than any one individual, so I’m just happy we got the win.” Currently, RSSB Tigers and Dar City sit joint top of the Kalahari Conference standings, each with a 2–0 record. Despite back-to-back wins against strong opponents, Jackson Jr. insists the team’s success comes as no surprise. “We believe in the group we have. We’ve got high-level guys who are hungry, and it’s been about coming together and moving as one unit,” he said. “We want to keep this undefeated run going, keep improving every game, and stay focused all the way to winning the championship in Kigali.” Tigers will return to court on Wednesday, April 1, when they go up against Johannesburg Giants who are winless in their past two games despite playing on home soil.

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BAL 2026: What's the idea behind RSSB Tigers' ‘resilience’ helmet?