For Devine Eke, the Basketball Africa League has become more than just a competition; it has transformed into a vital platform for growth and a home away from home. The 28-year-old forward, who holds both American and Nigerian nationality, is set to grace the league’s stage once again, this time suiting up for Senegal’s ASC Ville de Dakar (ASCVD) for the 2025 season.
The move to the Senegalese hosts for the Sahara Conference marks a significant step in a career that has been defined by relentless movement and a steadfast commitment to elevating basketball on the African continent. It was with Nigeria’s Rivers Hoopers in 2024 that Eke first announced himself on the continental stage.
His debut BAL season was nothing short of spectacular; he averaged an impressive double-double with 16.6 points and 11.3 rebounds per game, powering the Hoopers to a third-place finish and earning himself a well-deserved spot on the All-BAL Second Team.
That performance acted as a springboard, opening doors to the highest levels of the sport. Eke joined the Milwaukee Bucks for the NBA Summer League and later had stints with several G League franchises, including the Santa Cruz Warriors, Delaware Blue Coats, and the San Diego Clippers.
Reflecting on that period, he noted the vital lesson it imparted. “With playing in the G League this season, I learned patience is a virtue on and off the court and, no matter what the situation is, to play your hardest,” he told ESPN.
Despite these opportunities in the United States, the pull of the BAL remained strong. Eke speaks with genuine enthusiasm about his return, viewing it not as a step back, but as an integral part of his professional journey. “For me, playing in the BAL was an amazing opportunity for my first year.
I experienced so much and grew in such little time that I knew I wanted to play again,” he explained. “So when the opportunity with ASC Ville de Dakar fell in my lap, I was excited to join and continue to grow basketball in the continent of Africa”.
His path is guided by a powerful family connection. Eke is the cousin of WNBA stars Chiney and Nneka Ogwumike, a relationship that he cherishes deeply. They were instrumental in his initial decision to join the BAL, and their counsel continues to resonate.
“Those are my sisters, man,” Eke said fondly, “I wouldn’t even pronounce them as my cousins honestly, but technically they’re my cousins. We have a really good relationship. They mentor me; they give me really good advice”. With their wisdom in his corner and a new challenge on the horizon in Dakar, Devine Eke is poised to write the next compelling chapter of his African basketball story.
