Host Pressure, Dynasty Runs, And Debut Dreams: Women's AfroBasket 2025 Preview
Today marks the beginning of Africa's largest women's basketball tournament, where twelve national teams will compete for the AfroBasket title in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire. In addition to continental pride, the winner will secure a direct spot in the 2026 FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup. Furthermore, the top four teams will qualify for the global qualifying tournaments.
Côte d'Ivoire will host the Women's AfroBasket for the first time, with all games taking place at the Palais des Sports de Treichville in Abidjan. They have been drawn alongside Egypt and Angola in Group A and will begin their campaign against Egypt on July 26. Historically, Côte d'Ivoire has had the upper hand over Egypt in recent meetings; however, the closer results in recent years suggest that this opening match will test their composure in front of a home crowd eager for success.
Under the leadership of new coach Stéphane Leite, Côte d'Ivoire aims to build on the flashes of promise seen in 2023. Although they managed to defeat Angola, they fell short of reaching the knockout rounds. There is optimism that the possible inclusion of former WNBA guard Kariata Diaby will strengthen their experienced core and help them secure their first-ever AfroBasket medal on home soil.
LILLE, FRANCE - JULY 29: Team Nigeria celebrates with Ezinne Kalu of Nigeria during the Women's ... More basketball Group Phase - B match between Team Nigeria and Team Australia on day three of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 at Stade Pierre Mauroy on July 29, 2024 in Lille, France. (Photo by Christina Pahnke - sampics/Getty Images) Getty Images
Fresh off a landmark Olympic performance in Paris, where they became the first African basketball team to reach the Olympic quarterfinals, Nigeria is now considered the team to beat. Their historic victory over Canada was a significant milestone, even though they eventually bowed out to the USA, highlighting their growth on the global stage.
Having won four consecutive AfroBasket titles since 2017, D'Tigress are now pursuing a record-extending fifth championship in a row behind the leadership of Rena Wakama who became the first female coach to win an AfroBasket in 2023 and now serves as the assistant coach for the WNBA's Chicago Sky. They will begin Group D action against Rwanda on July 26, led by veterans such as Ezinne Kalu, Amy Okonkwo, and Promise Amukamara. While Nigeria's dominance in African basketball remains unparalleled, their preparations have faced some challenges, and they are aware that their rivals are closing the gap quickly. South Sudan: A Debut Fueled by Dreams
South Sudan is set to participate in its first Women's AfroBasket after being granted a wildcard entry. The Bright Starlets achieved their first international victory last year by defeating Rwanda in the Zone 5 qualifiers, highlighting their rapid progress since joining FIBA in 2013.
They have been placed in Group B, alongside Mali and Cameroon. South Sudan will open the tournament against Mali on July 26, followed by a match against Cameroon the next day. For South Sudan, this debut is about more than just winning; it represents an opportunity to establish themselves among Africa's basketball nations and inspire a new generation back home. Uganda vs Senegal: Revenge or Repeat?
ANTWERP, BELGIUM - FEBRUARY 8: Dillard Cierra of Senegal during a basketball game between the ... More womens national teams of Senegal and Nigeria at the FIBA Women's Olympic Qualifying Tournament 2024 in Antwerp on February 8, 2024 in Antwerp, Belgium. (Photo by Isosport/) Getty Images
In 2023, Uganda pulled off one of the biggest shocks in AfroBasket by defeating Senegal 85–83, establishing themselves as a threat in the tournament. The two teams will meet again in Group C on July 27, and Senegal will be eager to avoid another upset.
Senegal, the most decorated team in Africa, is determined to reclaim its position at the top after losing to Nigeria in three of the last four finals. The team will heavily rely on the trio of Cierra Dillard, Yacine Diop, and Ndioma Kané. Kané led the team in scoring and rebounding during the World Cup pre-qualifiers, while Dillard and Diop contributed strong leadership and offensive power.
For Uganda, another victory against Senegal would further solidify their ascent in the tournament. They are led by Jane Asinde, the MVP of their zone qualifiers, and they head into this matchup with confidence and a fearless mindset. Contenders Lurking: Angola, Mali, Egypt, Mozambique, and Cameroon
Angola, champions in 2011 and 2013, are currently in a rebuilding phase under coach Paulo Macedo. Despite recent struggles, they remain a formidable team with veterans like Nadir Manuel and Cristina Matiquite. Additionally, guard Italee Lucas, who recently showcased impressive skills in qualifying, adds to their strength.
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - SEPTEMBER 11: Sika Kone #3 of the Washington Mystics dribbles the ball in the ... More first half against the Chicago Sky at Wintrust Arena on September 11, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by) Getty Images
Mali continues to benefit from its exceptional youth development program, having won every U16 African title since 2009 and nine U18 championships. The team is led by 23-year-old Sika Koné, who brings valuable WNBA and World Cup experience to a squad eager to add to Mali's impressive collection of eight AfroBasket medals.
Egypt has not claimed AfroBasket gold since 1977 but hopes to change that this year. Key players, including Raneem El-Gedawy, Nadine Mohamed, and recent NCAA Champion, Jana El Alfy, will be vital to their campaign.
Mozambique, currently ranked fourth on the continent, is still seeking its first AfroBasket title after several close calls. With Leia Dongue at the helm of an experienced team entering through a wildcard entry, they possess both the skills and determination to challenge the top teams.
Cameroon, ranked sixth in Africa, aims for their first podium finish outside their home soil. Under the guidance of coach Ahmed Njoya, they have talented players like Monique Makani from the Phoenix Mercury and Dulcy Fankam, who provide depth and experience to Group B. A Tournament of Narratives
The 2025 Women's AfroBasket will not only determine the champions of Africa but also shape the narrative of basketball on the continent. Will Côte d'Ivoire turn home court into a fairytale run? Can Nigeria leverage its Olympic successes to secure a historic fifth crown? Will South Sudan inspire with their debut, and can Uganda continue its tradition of giant-killing?
Will Senegal reclaim its legacy, or will rising contenders like Mali, Angola, Egypt, Mozambique, and Cameroon defy expectations? Abidjan is set to witness more than just trophies being awarded; it will showcase the evolution of African women's basketball. Every layup, defensive stop, and upset will redefine what's possible for the sport across the continent.
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