Narace’s Double-Double & Cameroon’s Defence Humiliate Rwanda in 70-59 AfroBasket Qualifier Blowout!

Narace’s Double-Double & Cameroon’s Defence Humiliate Rwanda in 70-59 AfroBasket Qualifier Blowout!

Cameroon showcased dominance on both ends of the floor, defeating Rwanda 70-59 in a Group A matchup on Gameday 2 of the 2025 FIBA AfroBasket Qualifiers. Game MVP Williams Narace, coming off the bench, delivered an exceptional double-double performance with 12 points, 13 rebounds, and three assists. Fabien Quentin Philibert Ateba added firepower, finishing with 17 points, five rebounds, and a clutch display from deep.

The Lions roared early, dropping 25 points in the first quarter. Despite conceding 20 points—Cameroon's most porous defensive period—they quickly regrouped. The second quarter was a defensive clinic, with Cameroon holding Rwanda to just eight points. Samir Gbetkom and Brice Eyaga Bidias hit back-to-back threes, part of a quarter where Cameroon tallied 22 points, including deep shots from Ateba, Roland L'Amour Nyama, and Jeremiah Hill.

Cameroon had surged to a commanding 47-28 lead by halftime, controlling the boards and silencing Rwanda's offensive ambitions. Rwanda tried to fight back in the second half, improving their offence with 15 points in the third quarter and holding Cameroon to just 11 points. But the Lions' strong defensive rotations and rebounding ensured the East African side remained at bay.

The final quarter saw Rwanda outscore Cameroon 16-12, continuing their late-game push. However, Cameroon's 25-point largest lead and dominance for nearly 38 minutes proved insurmountable. The West African side's 58 rebounds dwarfed Rwanda's 38, while Cameroon capitalised on their shooting despite 22 turnovers.

Cameroon's consistent early-game dominance and ability to maintain composure under pressure solidified their 2-0 start in Group A. Rwanda, meanwhile, faces a tough climb to keep their qualification hopes alive after the defeat.

‍

[Photography Courtesy of FIBA]