Oyedeji challenges Lagos Legends AHAED OF BAL showdown
The countdown to the 2026 Basketball Africa League (BAL) has begun, and former NBA star Olumide Oyedeji has issued a passionate call to Nigeria’s representatives, Lagos Legends, urging them to
The countdown to the 2026 Basketball Africa League (BAL) has begun, and former NBA star Olumide Oyedeji has issued a passionate call to Nigeria’s representatives, Lagos Legends, urging them to prepare for the ultimate continental test.
Describing the BAL as “no ordinary tournament,” Oyedeji stressed that the club—also known as Moktown Flyers—must elevate every aspect of their preparation if they hope to compete against Africa’s elite.
“This is BAL. They need quality international friendlies, experienced players and a mentality ready for war,” said Oyedeji, a Vice President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee and President of the Nigeria Olympians Association.
The 2026 BAL season tips off March 27 in Pretoria before moving to Rabat and culminating in Kigali on May 31. Twelve elite clubs will contest 42 games for one crown, in what has become Africa’s premier basketball showcase.
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Lagos Legends qualified in dramatic fashion, dethroning defending champions Rivers Hoops in the NBBF abridged Premier League final. It was a statement victory. Now comes the harder task—proving they belong among Africa’s powerhouses.
The road ahead is tough as Egyptian giants Al Ahly SC, Libya’s Al Ahli Tripoli, Angola’s Petro de Luanda, Rwanda’s APR BBC, Morocco’s FUS Rabat and Senegal’s ASC Ville de Dakar represent battle-hardened oppositions.
Yet Oyedeji believes Lagos Legends have the structure to compete—strong coaching, committed management and hungry players—but insists belief must be matched by action.
“They must reinforce the squad with experienced heads who understand this stage. Easy is not on the menu,” he warned.
From Pretoria’s SunBet Arena to Rabat’s Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex and finally Kigali’s BK Arena, reputations will be tested. For Lagos Legends, the message is clear: brace up, level up and rise up.
