Game Report: In a historic feat at the opening of the 2024 FIBA U17 World Cup, Guinea clinched a remarkable 101-92 victory over China. The game unfolded as a testament to Guinea's rising basketball prowess on the global stage, marking a significant milestone in their sporting history.
Last Updated on
June 29, 2024
The young Guineans, buoyed by the powerful rendition of their national anthem sung in unison, arrived two days before the event. This early arrival and the uplifting anthem set the stage for their spirited performance.
As first-time African champions, Syli Basketball had a historic opportunity to make a mark against a formidable Chinese team. The game started with Guinea taking the lead in the first quarter, 8-2, prompting the Chinese to call a timeout, adding to the suspense.
The Chinese responded, and in the first quarter, both teams exchanged leads. Center Arafan Diane immediately scored 23 points in the opening period. Guinea secured the first quarter 30-22 with a solid inside game.
Arafan Diane continued to shine, reaching 28 points, and alongside his teammates, maintained a steady lead of ten to eleven points. By halftime, China had closed the gap to nine points (52-43), but Guinea narrowly edged the second quarter 22-21.
After halftime, the game continued in a similar pattern. Arafan Diane's impressive performance, reaching 30 points, and his team's control of the game with minimal turnovers (9) and effective fast breaks (28 points) demonstrated their strategic play and determination.
Syli Basketball won the third quarter by five points (26-21) and focused on managing the final quarter. They needed to maintain their lead, especially since their preparation for this World Championship had been limited. The Chinese fought vigorously, winning the final quarter by five points (28-23).
However, Guinea had built a solid lead and managed to contain their opponents to only 10 points. As the minutes ticked down, Guinea sealed the victory 101-92. Arafan Diane finished as the team's top scorer with 31 points, just behind China's Sinan Huan, who scored 32.
The young Guinean played 35 minutes and led his team to victory. Looking ahead to tomorrow's game against the USA, they will need to improve their perimeter shooting and not rely solely on their inside game. Nonetheless, victory is sweet and well-deserved, a moment to savour for the team.
[Photography / Imagery Courtesy of FIBA]
