Mali Claims Ninth FIBA U18 Women’s AfroBasket Title

Mali’s junior female basketballers made history, claiming their ninth FIBA U18 Women’s AfroBasket championship title. Facing a determined Nigerian side, Mali showcased their prowess with a convincing 76-56 victory, reaffirming their status as continental powerhouses in the under-18 category.

Oummou Koumare stole the spotlight, scoring 31 crucial points to propel Mali to victory. Rokiatou Berthe and Oummou Dabo chipped in with 14 and 10 points, respectively.

Nigeria initially took control, racing to a 5-0 lead and extending it to 7-2. However, Koumare sparked Mali’s resurgence, narrowing the gap to 7-5, while Dabo’s layup leveled the score. Koumare’s back-to-back baskets gave Mali an 11-7 lead.

In the second quarter, Nigeria’s Patience John reduced the deficit to 11-10, but Koumare’s 6-point run propelled Mali to 18-10. Mali extended their lead to 23-12, but Nigeria fought back to trail 29-23 at halftime.

The intense battle continued in the third quarter, with Koumare pushing Mali ahead 36-28, prompting Nigeria to call a timeout with 7 minutes left. Mali’s 24-19 quarter advantage stretched their lead to 53-42 entering the final quarter.

Berthe opened the fourth quarter with a three-pointer, followed by Koumare’s own triple, increasing Mali’s cushion to 59-42. Captain Mama Sidiki Doumbia and Koumare then delivered consecutive three-pointers and a layup, respectively, breaking Nigeria’s spirit and establishing a commanding 65-42 lead.

Idubamo Beggi briefly halted Mali’s momentum with a score, making it 65-44 with five minutes remaining. As the clock ticked down, Mali’s supporters erupted into jubilant chants, cheering on their team as they closed in on their record-extending ninth title.

Despite Nigeria’s late surge, led by Beggi and John, Mali’s overall dominance proved too much. The reigning champions secured their ninth title, reaffirming their status as the team to beat in the U18 Women’s AfroBasket. Nigeria’s bench outscored Mali’s 24-12, but the champions dominated other key aspects of the game.

Congratulations to Mali on their historic win!