Zamalek of Egypt on the 30th of May, 2021 became the first winners of the Basketball Africa League (BAL) Championship defeating North African compatriots US Monastir of Tunisia 76-63. The final took place at the Kigali Arena in Rwanda. BAL President Amadou Gallo Fall presented the Trophy which is designed to represent the boabab tree.
At the end of the game, the BAL announced its first recipients of the leagues end of season awards. The awards were used as a way to honor African NBA Legends Hakeem Olajuwon, Dikembe Mutombo and Manute Bol. The BAL created the Hakeem Olajuwon BAL Most Valuable Player Award, Dikembe Mutombo BAL Defensive Player of the Year Award and Manute Bol BAL Sportsmanship Award in recognition of their legendary NBA careers contributions to the good of the game.
The award winners were selected by a panel of broadcasters, NBA scouts and sportswriters. The top nominees received 3 points for a third place vote, 2 points for a second place vote and a point for third place.
Walter Hodge (Zamalek) was named the first Hakeem Olajuwon BAL Most Valuable Player averaging 15.5 points, 5.7 assists and 5.0 rebounds as he led his team to an undefeated 6–0 record.
Anas Osama Mahmoud (Zamalek) was named the first Dikembe Mutombo BAL Defensive Player of the Year after recording per game averages of 6.7 rebounds and 2.8 blocks.
Makrem Ben Romdhane (US Monastir) received the Manute Bol BAL Sportsmanship Award for his exemplifying ideals of sportsmanship and camaraderie.
More award winners will be announced today on the BAL’s official social media channels, The include the All-First team, the BAL scoring champion and the Ubuntu Award, an award for the individual or organization which have made a positive impact on the local community during the season.
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