Nairobi City Thunder forward Ariel Okall Koranga has been named the winner of the 2026 Basketball Africa League (BAL) Ubuntu Trophy, becoming the latest African basketball figure to be recognized for making a significant impact beyond the court.
The prestigious award was presented during the first half of the BAL semifinal clash between RSSB Tigers and Al Ahly SC at the BK Arena in Kigali, Rwanda by NBA Africa CEO Clare Akamanzi in recognition of his contribution to women empowerment and community development through basketball.
Okall has built a reputation not only as a talented player but also as a leader determined to create opportunities for young people through sport. He is the Founder and President of The Swish, a club competing in the Kenya Women’s Basketball Premier League.
Ariel Okall crowned 2026 BAL Ubuntu Trophy winner
Through the initiative, Okall has used basketball as a platform to empower young women across Africa by providing mentorship, training programs, life-skills education, and mental health support.
The program has already impacted more than 300 participants, including members of the deaf basketball community.
Several beneficiaries of the project have gone on to secure professional basketball opportunities, continue with their education, or gain employment opportunities through the networks created by the initiative.
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In a social media post after receiving the award, Okall reflected on the journey and acknowledged the many people who have supported him along the way.
“I am truly humbled and deeply honored to receive the Ubuntu Award today. This recognition means so much to me, and it reflects the collective effort, sacrifice, and belief of so many people who have supported me throughout this journey,” he wrote.
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The Nairobi City Thunder forward also paid tribute to the people working behind the scenes at The Swish as well as his current club for giving him a platform to grow both as a player and community leader.
“First and foremost, I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to the incredible individuals working tirelessly behind the scenes at Swish. Your dedication, passion, and hard work are the foundation of everything we continue to build. I would also like to thank my current team, NCT, for giving me the platform to be seen, to share my voice, and to connect with so many people,” Okall added.
He further appreciated fans and supporters who voted for him and continue to support his mission away from basketball.
“To everyone who voted for me and believed in me, thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your support is more than just encouragement ,it is motivation for me to keep pushing, keep growing, and continue making a positive impact.”
Okall also credited his faith for helping him navigate through difficult moments and achievements throughout his journey.
“Above all, I give thanks to God. Through every challenge, every setback, and every victory, His grace and guidance have carried me,” he concluded.
Apart from the trophy, Okall’s initiative will receive a cash prize of $10,000 aimed at helping expand its women empowerment and community outreach programs.
Former NBA player Hasheem Thabeet was among the other finalists for the award. Representing Dar City, Thabeet was nominated for his continued contribution to grassroots basketball and youth mentorship through his leadership role in the Tanzania Basketball Federation.
The other nominees included Ibrahim Famouke Doumbia of Nigeria’s Maktown Flyers and Joshua Ozabor of the Johannesburg Giants.
The BAL Ubuntu Trophy was introduced to celebrate players using basketball as a force for social change across Africa. Since its inception, the award has honored individuals who continue to inspire communities through leadership and service off the court.
Okall now joins a distinguished list of winners that includes Joel Almeida of Cape Verde’s Kriol Star, who won the award in 2025, and Senegal’s Alkaly Ndour of AS Douanes, who claimed the honor in 2024.
Uganda’s Tonny Drileba won the award in 2023, while Rwanda’s Jean Jacques Nshobozwabyosenumukiza was recognized in 2022. The inaugural winner in 2021 was Hicham Benayad-Cherif of Algeria’s GS Pétroliers.