Group B Preview: Prepare for the exciting showdown in the Group B qualifiers of the 2025 FIBA Men's AfroBasket! Cape Verde, Nigeria, Uganda, and Libya are all set to battle for a coveted spot in next year's African continental showcase. Don't miss the action as these teams compete for glory on the basketball court.
Last Updated on
February 22, 2024
Elango Mbotona
Staff Writer
The 2025 FIBA AfroBasket qualifiers' initial phase are set to take place in the picturesque Tunisian city of Monastir. While the venue for the main event remains undisclosed, groups B, D, and E are gearing up for action in this opening window. With 20 countries vying for qualification, anticipation is high as teams prepare to battle it out for coveted spots in the tournament.
Group B features a lineup of formidable teams, including the Cape Verde Blue Sharks, the Uganda Silverbacks, the D’Tigers of Nigeria, and Libya. Libya secured their spot in the qualifying tournament by defeating Morocco, in order to secure their return to next year's tournament after a 16-year hiatus.
The Blue Sharks made an impressive run in the 2021 FIBA AfroBasket tournament, clinching fourth place despite a tough 86-73 loss to Senegal in the bronze medal game. Their journey was particularly challenging, battling through pre-qualification with a reduced roster of just seven players. Now, three years later and better prepared, they are poised to demonstrate their readiness for the upcoming qualifying tournament and showcase their strength to the rest of Africa.
"We must support a Cape Verde that is in the process of some renewal, with young people hungry and willing to dignify our basketball and the country's colours, but also counting on the support of some experienced athletes ho will help them grow."
"Therefore, as we always fear no one, we want to continue to show our joy and determination in playing this game, which is our passion."
The Silverbacks are entering the upcoming quest under the leadership of new head coach Mandy Juruni. Despite facing time constraints for preparation, Juruni is determined to secure a fourth consecutive spot for the team. He will rely on the experience of NBA veteran Ish Wainwright from the Portland Trail Blazers and point guard Adam Seiko from the PS Karlsruhe Lions.
Juruni remains optimistic despite having newcomers on his roster, seeing it as an opportunity to groom the future of Ugandan basketball. He acknowledges the challenges ahead but maintains confidence in Uganda's prospects for qualifying for the 2025 AfroBasket tournament.
Despite recent funding challenges, the D’Tigers of Nigeria are gearing up for redemption after missing out on a ticket to the 2024 Paris Olympic via the qualifying tournament which was held on home soil in July 2023. With a strong sense of determination, Team Nigeria is eager to bring joy to the Nigerian population.
The former African champions and four-time silver medalists will face Uganda, Cape Verde, and Libya in the first window of the qualifying tournament. Notable absentees include Euroleague superstar Chima Moneke from Baskonia, Metu Chimezie from the Phoenix Suns, and Uche Ireogbu from AL-Shamal Sports Club in the Qatar Stars League.
After a 16-year absence from the African continental championship scene, Team Libya is poised to make a comeback. Their journey began successfully as they secured the last spot in Group B of the qualifying tournament. In an intense battle against Morocco, Libya managed to win Game Two after drawing in the first game. This victory extends their stay in Tunisia as they prepare for the upcoming qualifying tournament.
Jalal Saeid delivered an exceptional performance for Team Libya, recording 19 points and ten rebounds. Supported by Naseim Badrush, who contributed 16 points and eight assists, they played a crucial role in securing the last Group B spot for their nation.
[Photo Credit: FIBA]
