The Rwanda Basketball League semifinals continue to deliver high drama as both series remain tightly contested following Sunday’s Game 2 matchups at BK Arena. APR BBC leveled the series 1-1 against Patriots BBC, while REG BBC took a commanding 2-0 lead over UGB BBC with another impressive victory.
In the headline game, APR BBC bounced back strongly from their opening defeat, defeating rivals Patriots 83-75 in Game 2. After a disappointing loss in Game 1, the defending champions responded with focus and intensity, led by point guard Antino Alvalezes Jackson, who starred with 21 points, and Jean Victor Mukama, who added 10.
Patriots started strong, edging the first quarter 21-19, but APR seized control in the second quarter, winning it 27-20 to take a 46-41 lead into halftime. The army side returned after the break with renewed energy, outscoring Patriots 21-16 in the third quarter, and although Patriots tried to mount a comeback in the final frame (18-16), it was not enough to overturn APR’s lead.
Raphiael Putney led Patriots’ scoring with 23 points, while Bruno Nyamwasa and Frank Kamndoh each contributed 13 points. Despite the loss, the Patriots remain very much in the hunt, with the series now tied 1-1 heading into Game 3.
Meanwhile, in the other semifinal, REG BBC strengthened their grip on the series with a 96-84 victory over UGB BBC, moving within one win of the finals. REG once again showcased their offensive firepower and playoff experience. This time, it was Jean Jacques Boissy who took center stage, delivering a standout performance with 29 points, 8 assists, and 2 rebounds to guide REG to their second straight win.
With this victory, REG leads the best-of-five series 2-0, putting them firmly in control as they look to secure their spot in the championship final. However, UGB BBC has shown resilience and will be looking to keep the series alive in Game 3.
The semifinals are heating up as both pairs prepare for Game 3, scheduled for Wednesday, June 25, once again at BK Arena. With APR and Patriots tied at 1-1 and REG firmly ahead 2-0, the stakes continue to rise as teams inch closer to the 2025 Rwanda Basketball League Finals.
