In a standout season for the Basketball Africa League (BAL), Jo-Lual Acuil Jr. of Al Ahly Ly emerged as a dominant force, securing multiple prestigious accolades.
The 6’11” South Sudanese center was named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the 2024 BAL, marking a stellar year for the 30-year-old.
Acuil Jr.’s defensive prowess was also recognized as he took home the Dikembe Mutombo Defensive Player of the Year award. His defensive skills earned him a spot on the 2024 All-BAL Defensive Team, highlighting his impact on both ends of the court.
Furthermore, Acuil Jr. was named to the 2024 All-BAL First Team, joining elite players such as Samkelo Cele (Cape Town Tigers), Will Perry (Rivers Hoopers), Chris Crawford (US Monastir), and Aliou Diarra (FUS Rabat).
Acuil Jr.’s exceptional performance throughout the season saw him average 22 points, 8 rebounds, and 3 blocks per game over 10 BAL contests. His remarkable scoring ability was on full display when he set a BAL scoring record with 42 points in Al Ahly Ly’s 110-78 victory against City Oilers during the Nile Conference.
Despite his individual accolades, Acuil Jr. expressed a sense of unfulfilled ambition in his closing ceremony speech. “I never really set out to win awards.. the goal was always to win the trophy, and obviously we came up short.
There’s never been a silver lining in my career as far as these achievements but I’m thankful and grateful to play in this league,” he said.
Acuil Jr. also acknowledged the significance of Al Ahly Ly’s journey in the BAL, noting, “This is the first time that a Libyan team has been to this tournament, and to make it this far.. Shout out to Libya.. We represented you guys with pride.”
Acuil Jr.’s performance not only solidified his status as one of the league’s top players but also underscored the rising talent emerging from South Sudan and Libya in the realm of African basketball.
Photo: Basketball Africa League
