RSSB Tigers are making a strong statement at the Basketball Africa League 2026 in Pretoria, South Africa, with the Rwanda Cup winners now firmly on course for a spot in the playoffs set to take place in Kigali in May. With three games remaining in the Kalahari Conference, the Tigers are just one win away from securing qualification, having started their campaign with two consecutive victories. One of the standout performers has been South Sudanese center Mangok Mathiang, whose dominance on the boards has been key to the team’s success. The 2.08m big man is averaging 12.5 points and an impressive 17.5 rebounds per game, making a major impact on both ends of the court. ALSO READ: BAL 2026: Jackson Jr. hits game-winner as Tigers down Petro de Luanda In an interview with BAL media, the 33-year-old credited the team’s mentality as their biggest strength. “We must stay together. That’s the only way we can move forward. It's the only way to take care of the things you want to take care of,” he said. Despite the strong start, Mathiang emphasized that the team remains focused on continuous improvement, especially given that no Rwandan team has ever reached a BAL final. “Every game is a learning experience, but as competitors, we want to go all the way. Our goal is definitely to lift that trophy, but we're taking it one game at a time. Even at 2-0, we are not satisfied. We just need to keep improving game by game,” he noted. Beyond basketball, Mathiang spoke about his personal outlook, describing himself as a man of faith who enjoys the game. “I am enjoying this game and having fun with it. Playing hard is a given—it’s something everybody should do,” he said. Reflecting on his BAL experience so far, he expressed gratitude for finally getting the opportunity to compete on the continent. “I have played all over the world, and I’ve always wanted to come here. Now that I am here, I just want to give it my all and enjoy the experience,” he added. Mathiang also highlighted the significance of playing in front of African fans. “I started playing basketball abroad, so it’s fantastic to be here playing in front of kids who have been following me. I’m happy to be here.” Speaking about South Sudan’s rise in basketball, he praised the country’s growing presence on the global stage. “We are a new force right now. We play with high energy, and you can see a lot of skill. Many of us learned the game abroad, and that’s true for many African players as well,” he said. RSSB Tigers take on home side Johannesburg Giants on Wednesday, April 1 in a game that could see them seal a place in the playoffs in Kigali.
