April 29, 2025

All four teams are back at the starting point

Unlike previous seasons where some teams started their Basketball Africa League (BAL) conference campaigns on a winning streak, the 2025 Sahara Conference has delivered a completely different scenario.

All four teams (ASC Ville de Dakar, Kriol Star, Petro de Luanda and US Monastir) have a 1-1 record, casting even more doubt on the outcome of gameday 3 on Tuesday, April 29, at the Dakar Arena in Senagal.

What makes the 2025 Sahara Conference unique?

For the first time in the history of the BAL, every team in the conference has a 1-1 record after two games.

Gameday 3 at Dakar Arena will see two BAL champions (US Monastir and Petro de Luanda) take on debutants (Kriol Star and ASC Ville de Dakar).

Who will come out on top?

US Monastir vs. Kriol Star (4:00 p.m. GMT)

US Monastir made a strong statement by beating Petro de Luanda in a convincing game.

They showed exceptional teamwork and perfect three-point shooting, making it clear they mean business.

If the 2022 BAL champions want to keep this up, Kriol Star will have their hands full.

The Tunisian champions have an imposing presence, which Kriol Star is lacking.

The good news for the Cape Verdean team is that they can also make long-range shots like US Monastir.

Petro de Luanda vs. ASC Ville de Dakar (7:00 p.m. GMT)

The reigning champions may have played well in the early rounds, but they'll face a tough test against an ASC Ville de Dakar team that needs a win badly.

The Angolan champions also must deal with the pressure of playing at home, where the crowd has been amazing so far.

These are two teams with different styles. Petro de Luanda is very disciplined on offense, while ASC Ville de Dakar will need to change their defensive strategy.