EAUR Basketball Club has ended the season on a high note after winning the Rwanda Basketball Second Division Championship. This is their second trophy this year, following their victory in the Heroes Cup. The win also means they will play in the First Division next season.
The team secured the title after defeating Inspired Generation BBC 3–1 in the playoff finals.
As part of the prize ceremony, EAUR BBC received gold medals, the championship trophy, and a cheque worth RWF 3 million. Inspired Generation BBC, who finished in second place, were awarded silver medals and a cheque worth RWF 2 million.
“A Long Journey to Victory” Professor Kabera Callixte
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Speaking after the win, Professor Kabera Callixte, Vice Chancellor of EAUR University, praised the hard work and dedication of everyone involved.
“We are very happy today. It has been a long journey, but we have reached victory. In the four games we played, we won three, which is a great achievement. We thank the players, the coach, and the university management. This is our second trophy this year after the Heroes Cup, and now the championship. We will put in more effort as we move into the First Division. We thank all who contributed, from the players to those who supported them,” said Professor Kabera.
The team performed strongly throughout the competition, winning three out of four games in the final series. Speaking to EAUR Campus Vibe Radio, Head Coach Kamanzi Janvier said the promotion is a big step for the club, but the aim is to compete, not just participate.
“When you move up to the First Division, the goal is not just to play we want to compete. We will bring in two or three experienced players to guide our young talent. That extra experience will help us a lot,” Coach Kamanzi explained.
Coach Kamanzi said the journey was not without challenges, but the management’s support made the difference.
“There’s nothing to complain about. We faced some small challenges, but our management helped us, and the team was well-prepared,” he said.
Captain Kwizera Joshua also gave credit to the players’ unity.
“We worked together as one team and supported each other. That’s what made this victory possible,” Kwizera said.
The club knows that the First Division will be more competitive and expensive. EAUR officials are already planning to strengthen the squad.
“The First Division is tough and costly. We will find ways to get the budget needed to bring in quality players so we can compete with the best,” a club representative said.
The plan is to add two or three experienced players to help the young squad succeed at the top level.
EAUR University is known for supporting sports and culture. The school offers scholarships to talented athletes and creates opportunities for young people to grow.
“We encourage young people to take part in sports because it builds a healthy mind and body. EAUR is a place where students can develop their talents. We also welcome sponsors to work with us in supporting youth through sports,” the club leadership said.
Parents have also played a big part in the team’s journey. Yvette Mukamuremyi, mother of player Yvan Nsanzimana, was proud to see her son win the championship.
“He loves sports, and as parents, we fully support him. I grew up loving games like table tennis, so it’s natural for me to encourage him. My advice to parents is to always support their children in the sports they love,” she said.
With the championship trophy secured and promotion confirmed, EAUR Basketball Club is now preparing for their First Division debut in the 2025/26 season. Both Coach Kamanzi Janvier and Captain Kwizera Joshua believe the team can make an impact.
“We are going to the First Division with a mission not just to participate, but to compete and win,” said Coach Kamanzi.