Cassper Nyovest to Headline as Pretoria Hosts BAL Playoffs – What To Expect?

Pretoria is set to become the epicentre of African basketball. It will play host to the 2025 Basketball Africa League (BAL) Playoffs and Finals from 6 to 14 June. This marks a historic milestone for the country, as it is the first time the BAL’s climactic stage will be held on our soil. The event will bring together top-tier basketball talent and vibrant local culture.

Star Power Both On and Off the Court

This year’s edition doesn’t just focus on the court—it also promises a sensory explosion of music and culture. South African artists are set to electrify the halftime shows at the prestigious SunBet Arena in Pretoria. This will turn each match into a festival of sport and entertainment.

Award-winning rapper Cassper Nyovest will kick things off in spectacular style on opening night. He is set to perform during the highly anticipated seeding game between Libya’s Al Ahli Tripoli—featuring former NBA player Jaylen Adams—and Egypt’s Al Ittihad. This team is led by George King, another ex-NBA standout.

Local Artists Take Centre Stage

Nyovest’s performance on 6 June is expected to set the tone for the entire tournament. But he’s not alone in representing South African talent. A lineup of popular artists will ensure that basketball fans are also treated to some of the country’s finest musical acts during halftime.

Blxckie will perform on 7 June during the clash between US Monastir and Rivers Hoopers. Meanwhile, the smooth vocals of Aymos will feature during the second semifinal on 11 June. The grand finale on 14 June will close with show-stopping performances from Maglera Doe Boy and Focalistic. This will deliver a powerful mix of hip hop and amapiano to end the event on a high note.

Also gracing the stage throughout the tournament will be fan-favourites like Ch’cco and Bassie. Their performances will ensure every game is both a sporting and cultural celebration.

A Full-Day Fan Experience at SunBet Arena

Beyond the on-court action, attendees can immerse themselves in the BAL Fan Zone. This vibrant space at the SunBet Arena offers far more than just basketball. Fans will enjoy access to official BAL merchandise, local food vendors, DJ sets, and interactive games. These are all designed to create an all-day festival atmosphere.

The league’s president, Amadou Gallo Fall, has expressed immense excitement about the playoffs coming to Pretoria. He noted that the move highlights the BAL’s growth and mission to celebrate African excellence on and off the court. “Hosting the playoffs and finals in Pretoria will build on the league’s momentum,” he said.

Home Team in the Spotlight

South Africa’s very own team, Made by Basketball (MBB), will also be in action. They are coached by 1986 NBA champion Sam Vincent. Their inclusion adds a special layer of local pride, as they compete against elite teams such as Al Ittihad (Egypt), Rivers Hoopers (Nigeria), Petro de Luanda (Angola), and US Monastir (Tunisia).

With 12 top clubs from across the continent vying for glory, fans can expect an intense battle for African basketball supremacy.

A Cultural Homecoming for Sport and Music

For local supporters, this tournament is more than just basketball—it’s a proud cultural homecoming. As Cassper Nyovest aptly put it, “Bringing my music to the BAL playoffs in Pretoria feels like a full-circle moment. It’s where sport meets culture, and I can’t wait to share that energy with my people.”

With high-calibre matchups, celebrity performances, and a festival-like atmosphere, the 2025 BAL Playoffs and Finals are poised to be a defining moment in the country’s sporting and entertainment landscape. Whether you’re a basketball fanatic or a music lover, Pretoria is where it’s all happening this June.

Also read: Slam Dunk for Tourism: 2025 BAL Finals Set to Ignite Pretoria’s Economy and Spirit