Legendary Rwanda Basketball League side Espoir BBC suffered a 93-88 defeat to UGB, marking their 11th consecutive loss and 14th overall this season—confirming their last-place finish and relegation to the second division.
In the do-or-die clash on May 14 at Petit Stade, the Nyamirambo-based side came out strong, leading through the first three quarters. But UGB relied on their depth to mount a fourth-quarter comeback, outscoring Espoir 23-15 to seal the win.
Founded in 1963, Espoir BBC has long been a cornerstone of Rwandan basketball, known for nurturing young talent and producing national stars. In recent years, however, the club has struggled—hampered by financial constraints and an increasingly competitive league, where rivals have invested heavily in top talent from abroad.
Espoir has managed only one win in 15 games so far. With just one game remaining and a 1-14 record, they are mathematically unable to climb above Azomco (3-14), who sit just above them.
In the 2025 season, nine teams competed in the league, with only one set to face relegation as the league expands to ten teams next season. Unfortunately for Espoir, they are that team.
This marks a painful chapter for a club with five league titles—second only to APR’s record 15 since the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi. Espoir previously faced relegation four years ago, but the decision was overturned due to appeals related to the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact.
In addition to their domestic success, Espoir BBC has also won the 2012 Zone V Club Championship and has represented Rwanda in the African Club Championship, before transitioning to the Basketball Africa League (BAL).
