Devine Eke, a prominent forward for the Nigerian national basketball team, D’Tigers, has embarked on a new chapter in his professional career, joining Senegal’s ASC Ville de Dakar for the upcoming Basketball Africa League (BAL) Sahara Conference. This move marks a departure from Rivers Hoopers, the Nigerian champions with whom Eke made a significant impact during the previous BAL season. While acknowledging his new venture, Eke expressed his enduring fondness for Rivers Hoopers, emphasizing the special place they hold in his heart. His time with the Nigerian club proved to be a pivotal point in his career, showcasing his talent on a continental stage and paving the way for subsequent opportunities.
Eke’s performance with Rivers Hoopers in the BAL was nothing short of impressive. He averaged 16.6 points and 11.3 rebounds per game, a testament to his dominance on both ends of the court. This stellar performance earned him a well-deserved spot on the All-BAL second team, further solidifying his reputation as a rising star in African basketball. Despite the success and camaraderie he enjoyed with Rivers Hoopers, Eke decided to pursue a new challenge with ASC Ville de Dakar, the host team for the Sahara Conference. This decision reflects his ambition to continuously grow and contribute to the development of basketball across the African continent.
The move to ASC Ville de Dakar also presents Eke with the opportunity to reunite with former Rivers Hoopers teammate Will Perry. This reunion adds another layer of intrigue to the upcoming Sahara Conference, as the two players will look to combine their skills and experience to lead their new team to success. The BAL Season 5 is structured in a multi-conference format, with the Kalahari Conference in Rabat, Morocco already underway. Following the Sahara Conference, the Nile Conference will take place in Kigali from May 17th to 25th. The culmination of the regular season will lead to the playoffs, where the top two teams from each conference, along with the two best third-placed teams, will compete for the championship title in Pretoria, South Africa from June 6th to 14th.
Eke’s journey since his breakout season with Rivers Hoopers has been a whirlwind of activity. He participated in the NBA Summer League with the Milwaukee Bucks, showcasing his talent on a global stage. Following the Summer League, he was drafted by the Santa Cruz Warriors in the G League Draft, marking his entry into the NBA’s developmental league. His time in the G League saw him play for several teams, including the Delaware Blue Coats, Mexico City Capitanes, and the San Diego Clippers. These experiences provided him with valuable exposure to different playing styles and coaching philosophies, further honing his skills and preparing him for the challenges ahead.
Reflecting on his G League experience, Eke highlighted the importance of patience, both on and off the court. He emphasized the need to consistently give maximum effort, regardless of the circumstances. This mindset demonstrates his dedication to continuous improvement and his unwavering commitment to the sport. His time in the G League has undoubtedly shaped his approach to the game, instilling in him the resilience and perseverance required to succeed at the highest level.
As Eke embarks on this new chapter with ASC Ville de Dakar, he carries with him the lessons learned and the experiences gained throughout his basketball journey. From his impactful season with Rivers Hoopers to his time in the G League, each step has contributed to his growth and development as a player. His decision to join ASC Ville de Dakar not only reflects his personal ambition but also his desire to contribute to the growth of basketball in Africa. As the BAL Season 5 unfolds, all eyes will be on Eke and his new team as they aim to make their mark on the continental stage. The reunion with Will Perry adds an exciting dimension to the Sahara Conference, promising a dynamic and competitive season for basketball fans across Africa.
