What makes Petro de Luanda’s BAL history unique?

Since its inception in 2021, the Basketball Africa League (BAL) has featured 34 clubs from across Africa. Of these, Petro de Luanda has written its own history. 

The Angolan champions have experienced frustration, joy and uncertainty in the BAL, but their history is unique.

Here’s what makes Petro de Luanda's BAL history one of a kind.

They are one of only two teams – alongside US Monastir – not to have missed any of the first five BAL editions.

With 40 games under their belts, Petro de Luanda have played more BAL games than any other team.

Petro de Luanda reached the semi-finals in each of the first five editions of the BAL, winning the title once, finishing second twice and taking home bronze, as well as achieving a fourth-place finish. 

Of their 40 games in the first five seasons, Petro de Luanda held a 27–13 win–loss record.

Although they rank among the league’s heavyweights, there are two teams against which Petro de Luanda have struggled.

In their two meetings against Egypt’s Zamalek, Petro de Luanda lost both encounters in 2021 and 2022, respectively. US Monastir have emerged as one of Petro de Luanda’s tormentors, having beaten the Angolan giants three times in their five BAL meetings so far.

After finishing top of the Nile Conference with a perfect 5-0 record, which included a thrilling 91-90 victory over eventual league champions Al Ahly SC in Cairo, Petro de Luanda appeared to be on course for their most successful campaign in 2023. However, they ultimately finished fourth, their worst result in BAL history.

However, in 2024, they were under pressure mainly due to their inconsistent results (2–3) before the elimination round. Nevertheless, Petro de Luanda proved the doubters wrong by winning the club’s first league title after three attempts. 

Petro de Luanda may have started the 2024 BAL season on the losing side, but they had the last laugh in the end. 

Their 107–94 victory over Al Ahly in the 2024 BAL final saw them achieve their highest ever score in a BAL game.

Players to watch out for:

Petro de Luanda have retained the core of their squad, including Childe Dundao, Aboubacar Gakou, Gerson Gonçalves and Cleusino Castro, who are set to return for the 2025 BAL season. 

The Petroliers have also hit the transfer market, signing Angolan international Milton Valente, South Sudanese sharpshooter Peter Jok, and American-born Javion Blake, who plays internationally for the Syrian national team. 

Head coach

Spaniard Sergio Valdeolmillos is entering his third season at the helm of Petro de Luanda. 

Since taking over right before the 2024 BAL Playoffs, the former head coach of the Mexican national team has amassed an 8–6 win–loss record in the BAL.

Petro de Luanda’s BAL record stands at 27–13.