Rwanda’s RSSB Tigers, representing Africa at the 2026 FIBA Intercontinental Cup, suffered a 107-89 defeat to Lithuania’s Rytas Vilnius, which represents Europe, in Beijing, China.
The annual FIBA Intercontinental Cup officially got underway on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, with RSSB Tigers facing Rytas Vilnius in the opening Group A game.
The game, which tipped off at 9:30 a.m. Kigali time, saw Rytas Vilnius make a strong start, winning the first quarter 21-19 before extending their lead with a 26-20 advantage in the second quarter. Rytas Vilnius went into halftime leading 47-39.
The Lithuanian side maintained its momentum after the break, dominating the third quarter 35-20 to build a commanding lead.
RSSB Tigers responded in the final quarter, outscoring Rytas Vilnius 30-28, but the comeback was not enough to overturn the deficit.
Rytas Vilnius eventually secured a 107-89 victory to take the early lead in Group A with two points. RSSB Tigers sit second with one point, while China’s Shanghai Sharks, who have yet to play, are third with no points.
Kay Bruhnke led Rytas Vilnius with 20 points, eight rebounds, three assists and one steal.
For RSSB Tigers, Leonard Craig Randall II scored 20 points, while Teafale Marquise Lenard Jr. added 16 points. Nisre Zouzoua contributed 10 points but suffered an injury during the first half.
The FIBA Intercontinental Cup continues on Tuesday with a Group B match between host team Beijing Royal Fighters of China and Argentina’s Club Atlético Boca Juniors, representing South America, at 1:30 p.m. Kigali time.
RSSB Tigers will return to action on Wednesday, September 23, when they face Shanghai Sharks in their second and final Group A game at 9:30 a.m. Kigali time.
The other Group B match on Wednesday will see Beijing Royal Fighters take on NBA G League United at 1:30 p.m. Kigali time.
