Ivorian champions JCA Kings qualified for the 2027 Basketball Africa League (BAL) after beating Nadi Basket Staoueli to reach the West Division Elite 16 final, securing their place in the continental competition for the second consecutive year. Nadi Basket matched the Ivorian side throughout the first half, combining disciplined defence with effective offence to control the pace against a JCA team known for its high-intensity style. However, backed by the home crowd, JCA Kings gradually created some separation late in the second quarter, with Aboubakr Gbane contributing 10 points and 10 rebounds, while Mohamed Konate added eight points and five blocks. “It’s a bit unique because once you reach the semi-finals or finals, other factors come into play: emotions and the high stakes involved. Naturally, this tends to somewhat compromise the quality of the play,” JCA coach John Douaglin said, reflecting on the first-half performance. Attoule Alla’s three-pointer from the corner at the buzzer extended JCA’s advantage to nine points heading into the final quarter, giving the hosts a crucial cushion. Lassina Konate then capitalised on Mohamed Keita’s missed three-pointer, collecting the rebound for a put-back that pushed the Kings’ lead into double figures early in the fourth quarter. JCA maintained their advantage for the remainder of the game, with captain Joseph Kouakou producing a strong defensive display late on. His three blocks helped keep Nadi Basket at bay and sent the home crowd into celebration. Keita led the Kings’ scoring with 16 points and six assists, while Trevon Duval chipped in with 10 points. For Nadi Basket, Mohamed Harat, who previously featured for GS Petroliers in the 2021 BAL season, delivered an impressive performance, scoring a game-high 26 points, but his efforts were not enough to prevent defeat. Nadi Basket Staoueli will face Stade Malien in the third-place game on Sunday, while JCA Kings will take on fellow Libyan side Al Ittihad in the West Division final, with both teams having secured qualification for the 2027 BAL.
