Rwanda: Mwinuka's Tigers Out to Challenge APR for Championship

5 February 2026
The New Times (Kigali)
By Damas Sikubwabo

Tigers Basketball Club head coach Henry Mwinuka believes the squad at his disposal can mount a serious challenge to reigning champions APR BBC as the new season approaches.

Tigers and APR shared major domestic honours in 2025, with Tigers lifting the Rwanda Cup while APR claimed the Rwanda Basketball League title. The two sides will meet in the Rwanda Super Cup on Friday, February 6, just two days before the 2026 league season tips off.

ALSO READ:Basketball: Rwanda Super Cup set for February 6

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Mwinuka heads into the new campaign with a significantly revamped roster, highlighted by several high-profile signings made during the offseason.

Former Patriots guard Steven Hagumintwari joined Tigers in search of a new challenge under his former coach, while Olivier Shyaka, Bruno Nyamwasa, Paul Bizimungu, and Antino Jackson also signed on after being convinced by the club's project.

Experienced imports Anthony Tarke and Albert Odero are also expected to add valuable overseas experience as Tigers push toward their ambitions.

ALSO READ: Tigers acquire Kenyan-American guard Albert Odero

On Mwinuka's recommendation, the club also extended the contracts of key contributors Pitchou Manga, Lars Ishimwe, Fiston Irutingabo, and Hervé Icyishatse, ensuring continuity alongside the new arrivals.

With the current roster, Mwinuka says Tigers are building a competitive side capable of challenging APR, who have won the league championship in each of the past two seasons.

"We have a tough job in blending new and old players, but the rest is easy," Mwinuka told Times Sport. "We have competed with REG and Patriots before. My goal is to build a team that can compete against APR BBC."

The coach also expects a more demanding campaign across the league.

"This year will be very difficult because all the teams have strengthened their squads. With six teams at a good level, I believe the season will be stronger than last year," he added.

Tigers' best league finish came during the 2021-22 season, when they placed fourth, and they reached the semifinals in December 2024.

As the 2026 Rwanda Basketball League season gets underway on Sunday, February 8, Mwinuka is hopeful of improved results and a genuine title challenge.

Read the original article on New Times.

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