Senegal wins African Championship title in
Madagascar - Oct. 19, 2009 Africa
top-seeded women basketball team, Senegal Sunday proved book makers right with a
five-star performance in the final of the 21st FIBA Africa Championship for
Women at the Palais Des Sport in Antananarivo, Madagascar.
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Aya Traore (186-F-83, college:
Purdue) the Senegalese took the second quarter by 19-14 points for a
half-time break of 47-23 points taking a big 24 points lead.
The Malian not wanting to give easily tries to fight back their effort was
simply not enough, though they won in the third quarter by 14-09 points and also
took the fourth quarter by 20-16 points but the damage has already being done as
the Senegalese frustrated all attempt by the Malian to come back into the game
as time thick away.
Senegal eventually won the battle of the champions by 72-57 points to be crowned
Africa champion for the tenth time. Aya Traore led the floor with 19 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists,
Fatou Dieng (170-G-85) added 17 points while the duo of
Mame Diouf (170-G-84) and
Marie Sy (185-F-85) contributed 11 and 10 points respectively.
Mali and former Africa most valuable player,
Hamchetou Maiga (184-G/F-78, college:
ODU) led her team with 17 points and 6 rebounds,
Djene Diawara (192-C-88) had a double double figure of 13 points and 12
rebounds just as
Djenebou Sissoko (190-F/C-82, college:
Union (TN)) added 11 points.
Both finalists will represent Africa at the 2010 FIBA Championship in Czech
Republic.
Courtesy of FIBA Africa
Semifinals in Madagascar - Oct. 18, 2009 SEMIFINALS
Senegal - Cote
d'Ivoire 75:54
Senegal advanced to the 2009 AfroBasket Final. They held off Cote d'Ivoire in
the first semifinal clash yesterday. The victory meant Senegal had ensured the
2010 World Championship birth. Young and ambitious Cote d'Ivoire stopped just
one step away from their dream goal. They will now play for the spot on the
podium against Angola. Senegal will face the defending champions Mali in the
remake of the 2007 Final.
The teams looked equally matched in the first half. Senegal took a narrow
2-point lead at the first break but could not clear off further. Cote d'Ivoire
stayed within striking distance and trailed by just 2 points at halftime 26:28.
However Senegal capitalized on turnovers from their opponents to surge in front
in the third stanza. They grabbed a 13-point lead into the fourth term. Cote
dIvoire could not recover in the fourth period and had to deal with a sour loss
at the end. Aya Traore (186-F-83, college:
Purdue) (186-F-83, college:
Purdue)
came up with 26 points to pace Senegal.
Miriam Sy
(193-C-79, college:
Oklahoma City)
added 15 points for the winners.
Kani Kouyate
(90) responded with 22 points for Cote d'Ivoire.
Mariama Kouyate
(88) finished with 13 points in defeat.
The AfroBasket defending champions Mali made it to the championship of the
current tournament. They rallied past Angola in overtime to set up an exciting
clash with Senegal in the title decider. Moreover the victory ensured Mali birth
at the 2010 World Championship. Angola will fight for the Bronze medals against
Cote dIvoire.
Hamchetou Maiga
(184-G/F-78, college:
ODU)
scored 18 points to lead the way for Mali.
Mali got to the better start. They secured a 3-point lead at the first
intermission. The reigning champions stayed dominant in the second frame. Mali
arrived at the main break ahead by 5 points. But Angola turned things around in
the third period. Led by
Nassecela Mauricio
(181-F-80) Angola spurred in front to take a 6-point lead with ten minutes to
go. Mali refused to bow and drew things level late in regulation forcing
overtime. Mali seemed to have left with more energy for the extra five minutes
as they eased to the win in the final minutes.
Djene Diawara
(192-C-88) produced 16 points and 10 boards for the winners.
Djenebou Sissoko
(190-F/C-82, college:
Union (TN))
added 12 points and 8 rebounds for Mali.
Nassecela Mauricio
responded with game-high 19 points.
Irene Guerreiro
(170-F-70) finished with 16 points in defeat.
Madagascar
- Mozambique 66:73
Mozambique will for the fifth overall position at 2009 AfroBasket. They edged
hosting Madagascar yesterday. Mozambique will now face Nigeria. Madagascar will
be opposed by Cameroon for the 7th spot.
Mozambique looked solid in the first half. They fired 25 points in the opening
stanza worth a 6-point lead after ten minutes of action. Mozambique continued to
dominate in the second frame. They ensured a 46:30 advantage at halftime.
Madagascar failed to get any closer in the third term. Mozambique wisely kept
their opponents at bay and entered the fourth quarter up by as many as 18
points. Madagascar finally broke the silence unloading 23 points in the fourth
frame but it was too late to save the encounter. Mozambique rolled to the win at
the end.
Catia Halar
came up with 18 points to lead the charge. Dongue added 15 points and 10
rebounds for the winners.
Belinda M'Boma
(175-F-82),,
Agne Rasoambolanoro
(F) and
Prisca Razananirina
(F) replied with 14 points each in defeat.
Nigeria claimed a comfortable win over Cameroon in the classification round
of 2009 AfroBasket. They will now play against Mozambique for the fifth
overall place. Cameroon will clash with Madagascar for the 7th position.
Cameroon entered the game without Amina Njonkou who suffered a kneel injury
in the previous game. She is expected to be sidelined for several months
now. However Cameroon were quick to jump off the blocks. They outscored
Nigeria 15:10 in the starting quarter. Nigeria adjusted in the second period
and poured in 24 points. Nigeria earned a 3-point lead at halftime.
Funmilayo Ojelabi
(G) paced Nigeria as they stretched the gap to as many as 9 points at the
final break. The teams teamed up for only 14 points in the fourth term as
Nigeria coasted to the win.
Funmilayo Ojelabi
knocked down 18 points to lead the charge.
Erdoo Angwe
(178-G-87) had 11 points, while
Rashidat Sadiq
(188-F-81) contributed 10 points and 7 boards for the winners.
Astride Gano
(88) and Nyatcho produced 10 points each for Cameroon.
Belle Alvine Mendeng
(81) accounted for 8 points in the loss.
Rwanda clinched the 9th spot at the 21st FIBA Africa Championship for Women in
Antananarivo. In their last game of the tournament the team overcame Tunisia
70:65 as Tatum was too good for the opponents.
Both teams played already with each other in Day 4 of the 21st FIBA Africa
Championship for Women in Antananarivo. That time Tunisia won 59:53.
Last night Tunisia also was better in the beginning of the game and opened the
game with 18-15. Rwanda responded with 22-13 for 37:31 halftime advantage. The
latter pushed the tempo in the third period and enjoyed 19-15 in the frame.
Tunisia won however the last period 19-14 but lost the last game.
Rwanda dominated the boards of the game and made
less turnovers. Tunisia however made more steals than the opponents.
Tatum exploded with 25 points and 17 rebounds. Ayebare nailed 13, while
Jamel Grandberry
(183-F/C) posted 12.
Selma M'Nasria
(190-86) collected 23 points and 11 rebounds in defeat as Tunisia clinched the
10th spot.
Thouraya Adsi
(82) added 14 and
Fatma Zagrouba
(F-82) poured in 12 points.
South Africa clinched 11th place at the 21st FIBA Africa Championship for Women.
In their last game the team beat Mauritius 60:36 in Madagascar.
This was the second appearance for both teams at the tournament as in Round 2
South Africa and Mauritius battled for the first victory at the FIBA Africa
Championship for Women in Day 2. South Africa looked much better in the court to
smash the opponents 70:29 for 1-1 record.
Last night South Africa started with 16-6 in the opening quarter and never
looked behind after. South Africa allowed the opponents to score another 6
points in the second frame, while they increased to 33:12 at the halftime. In
the third period the favorites produced 16-8 that gave them 49:20 after 30
minutes of the game. Mauritius however managed to win the last quarter 16-11 at
the end of the campaign.
South Africa made
12 steals in the game, while Mauritius had 9. The latter however comminted less
turnovers in the game 18 versus 20. Blessed Mtsweni
top-scored for the winners with 13 points to finish at the 11th spot with her
team.
Itumeleng Khoabane
(87) and
Nosipho Njokweni
followed her with 10 points apiece.
Vanessa Speville
ended up with 15 points in the losing effort.
Corinne Somauroo
produced 13 points for Mauritus that finished on the 12th position.
Cote d'Ivoire proved their highest ambitions at the 2009 AfroBasket. They held
off Cameroon in the first quarterfinal yesterday. Cote d'Ivoire will now have to
pass the test of the 2007 vice-champions Senegal in the semifinal tonight to
reach the World Championship. Cameroon will play against Nigeria for the 5th-8th
place.
Cote d'Ivoire switched on to a stifling defense right from the starting minutes.
They held Cameroon to 9 points in the first quarter to lead by 4 at the break.
Cote d'Ivoire continued to maintain the pressure throughout the second quarter.
They once again limited Cameroon to 9 points taking a comfortable 11-point
advantage at halftime. Cameroon struggled to find offensive rhythm in the third
term. They lagged behind to enter the fourth stanza down by 15 points. Cameroon
won the fourth quarter but it was too late to hope for any positive outcome.
Kani Kouyate
(90) stepped up with 15 points for Cote d'Ivoire.
Salimata Berte
(89) nailed 12 points and collected 8 rebounds in the win.
Babette Noah
(191-C-81) replied with 13 points and 13 boards for Cameroon.
Siloise Gano
had 11 points in the losing effort.
Angola paved their way into the AfroBasket semifinal. They fired past Mozambique
in a quite one-sided encounter yesterday. Angola will now face the defending
champions Mali for the 2010 World Championship ticket. Mozambique will play
against Madagascar for the 5th-8th place.
Angola looked overwhelming in this one. They limited Mozambique to 5 points in
the starting frame taking an 11-point lead. Angola stayed aggressive defensively
bruising Mozambique for a 16-point halftime advantage. Mozambique could not pick
up the slack and faced a massive 24-point deficit into the fourth quarter.
Angola stayed merciless in the final term. They outgunned Mozambique 14:6 in the
fourth quarter posting a comprehensive victory at the end. Nassecela Mauricio (181-F-80)
(181-F-80) was responsible for 17 points and 9 rebounds for Angola.
Luisa Tomas
(83) and
Ernestina Rodrigues
(79) had 10 points each in the win.
Catia Halar
answered with 8 points and 8 rebounds for Mozambique. Dongue produced 7 points
and 8 rebounds in the loss.
Mali - Madagascar 80:46
The AfroBasket defending champions Mali reached the semifinal stage of the
tournament. They held off hosting Madagascar in the quarterfinal yesterday. Mali
will now take on ambitious Angola with the World Championship birth on the
stake. Madagascar will now take on Mozambique in the game for the 5th-8th spot.
Mali stormed into the game. They scored eagerly and earned an 18-point lead at
the first break. Madagascar stopped the bleeding in the second stanza but could
not seriously threaten the margin. They cut the deficit by just one point to
trail 27:44 at halftime. The third frame brought little change in the game. The
teams traded baskets and Mali entered the fourth quarter up by 17. Madagascar
simply ran out of gas in the fourth term as Mali cruised to the win in the final
minutes. Nassira Traore (185-F/C-91)
(185-F/C-91) came up with 14 points for Mali.
Miriam Sy (193-C-79, college:
Oklahoma City) (193-C-79, college:
Oklahoma City)
added 12 points and 12 boards, while
Naignouma Coulibaly
(192-C-89) knocked down 11 points in the win.
Nahirae Solinasoa
(C) responded with 11 points for Madagascar.
Agne Rasoambolanoro
(F) netted 8 points in defeat.
Senegal reached the Semifinal of the Afrobasket 2009 as the team overcame
Nigeria last night. The favorites produced 89:45 in the last quarterfinal.
Senegal opened the game with 25-11 in the opening quarter and added massive
24-10 in the second. It gave them 49:21 advantage at the halftime as they never
looked behind after. Moreover Senegal won the third period 19-14 and added 21-10
in the last. The victories in all the period made the final score, 89:45.
Senegal made more Rebounds than the opponent as they had 30 over 19 Defensive
and 12 over 10 Offensive Rebounds. Senegal made also more steals in the game, 15
versus 7. Fatou Dieng
(170-G-85) top-scored for the winners with 16 points. Diouf netted 13, while
Sene and
Awa Gueye
(182-F-78) notched 12 each.
Funmi Ojelabi
(170-G-85) ended up with 15 points in the losing effort, while
Rashidat Sadiq (188-F-81)
posted 8.
In the Semifinal Senegal will face Cote d'Ivoire that proved their highest
ambitions at the 2009 AfroBasket. They held off Cameroon 55:44 in the first
quarterfinal yesterday. Cameroon will play against Nigeria for the 5th-8th
places.
Rwanda posted the second win at the AfroBasket tournament in Madagascar. They
prevailed against South Africa in the classification games. Rwanda will now face
Tunisia for the 10th place at the tournament. South Africa will wrap up their
campaign against Mauritius.
Rwanda grabbed the lead from the early stages of the encounter. They went for 26
points in the starting stanza enjoying an 8-point lead at the first break. South
Africa seemed to level things up in the second period. They limited Rwanda to
just 11 points and got within 7 at halftime. But Rwanda quickly regained
control. They came off the dressing room firing from all guns and earned an
18-point advantage with ten minutes to go. South Africa won the final period but
could not seriously threaten the margin at the end. Tatum Brown
(193-C-78, college:
Arizona)
knocked down 22 points to lead Rwanda. Honoree Ayebare added 20 points and 6
assists for the winners.
Blessed Mtsweni
and
Ellen Moutlwatse
(86) fired 13 points each in defeat.
Tunisia celebrated the second victory at the AfroBasket 2009. They coasted
past Mauritius in the classification round. Tunisia therefore will take on
Rwanda for the 10th overall position at the tournament. Mauritius will
search for the initial win when they take on South Africa later tonight.
Tunisia did not waste too much time to stamp the authority. They won the
opening stanza 21:12 and continued to mount the pressure in the second
quarter. They avalanched on their opponents with a 33:7 run in the frame
establishing a 54:19 lead at halftime. Mauritius managed to score miserable
1 point in the third quarter to trail by massive 56 points heading into the
fourth term. Tunisia cruised to the victory in the dying moments.
Lilia Inoubli
(G-92) delivered 17 points and 9 boards for Tunisia.
Thouraya Adsi
(82) contributed 12 points and 9 rebounds in the winning effort.
Isabelle Nemorin
responded with 11 points for Mauritius.
Vanessa Speville
finished with 7 points in the heavy loss. Mauritius committed 36 turnovers
and shot just 19% from the field.
The End of the Preliminary Round - Oct.
15, 2009 GROUP A
South Africa-Cameroon 50:64
Cameroon advanced to the Quarterfinals after the victory over South Africa in
the last game of the group. Cameroon needed 64:50 to finish Group A with 3-2
record of the
21st FIBA Africa Championship for Women.
Cameroon started the game with 21-19 and later pushed the tempo for good. Due to
the great defense the team ended up the half with 36:25. In the third period the
teams were tied at 12-12 that still remained Cameroon on top. The latter added
16-13 in the last frame for the total success.
Solange Ebondji led the way with 15 points for 3-2 record. Astride Gano-Njiogap
added 14 points, while Ngamou notched 9. Emmerentina
Emmerentia Ledwaba (183-F-79) was outstanding in her side lose with 12
points, 7 rebounds in the losing effort.
In the Quarterfinal Cameroon will face Ivory Coast. South Africa will play
against Rwanda for the 9-12 places on October 16th.
Mozambique rolls over Madagascar as both teams advance to 1/4 Finals of the 21st
FIBA Africa Championship for Women. Mozambique beat the hosts 71:59 for 4-1
record. Madagascar advanced to the Quarterfinals with 2-3 record from the fourth
spot of the group.
It was Madagascar that opened the game with 19-7 and won the opening quarter.
Mozambique replied with a 26-15 points win in the second quarter to narrow the
gap to just one point of 34:33 at half-time in favour of the host. In the third
period the guests were too good in the court and nailed 30 points in 10 minutes.
It gave them 63:47 advantage after 30 minutes. Madagascar won the last quarter
12-8 but could only reduce to 59:71.
Leia Dongue led the way with a double double of 16 points and 10 rebounds. Aleia
Rachide also had double double of 12 rebounds, 10 points, while Catia Halar and
Ana Azindeira combined 24 points.
In the Quarterfinals Mozambique will face Angola that finished another group on
the third spot. Madagascar will take on the leader of Group B Mali.
Mauritius-Senegal 19:107
Senegal won group A of the 21st FIBA Africa Championship for Women reaching the
fifth straight victory last night. The favorites thrashed Mauritius 107:19 for
5-0 record.
Senegal started with 26-2 in the opening quarter and did not allow the opponent
to show at least what they could in the court. The favorites easily reached 54
points at the halftime after 28-6 in the second stanza. In the third period
Senegal produced 27-3 and looked forward to reach three digits in the end of the
game. With 26-6 in the last quarter Senegal finished the game with 107:19. Ndeye Sene (167-G/F-88) again top-scored for the winners with 20 points.
Diango notched 18, while Thiam posted 16.
Karina Venketasawmy collected 7 points and 12 rebounds in defeat.
Senegal will face now the fourth team of Group B in the Quarterfinals. On
October 16th the team will play Nigeria that finished Group B with 2-3 record.
The latter lost the last game to Angola 45:60.
GROUP B
Mali -Tunisia 66:38
Mali clinched the top spot in Group B at the preliminary round of AfroBasket
2009 in Madagascar. They wrapped up the action in the pool with the victory over
Tunisia. The defending champions improved at 4-1 record and would face
Madagascar at the quarterfinal stage. Tunisia finished the round with a single
victory and occupied the fifth place in the group. They are scheduled to meet
with Mauritius in the classification round.
Mali dominated the game from start to finish. They piled up a 12-point lead at
halftime and were not about to slow down after the main break. The reigning
champions cruised to a 19-point lead after three quarters of action. Tunisia
were able to account for just 8 points in the fourth frame and had to surrender
at the end. Djenebou Sissoko (190-F/C-82, college:
Union (TN)) tallied 17 points and 11 boards for Mali. Diawara added 15
points and 16 boards for the winners. Zagrouba,
Hedi Hamrouni (202-F) and Chelly responded with 6 points each. Mali enjoyed
an overwhelming advantage on the boards 62:17. They also managed to overcome 22
turnovers and 34% accuracy from the field.
Angola - Nigeria 60:45
Angola claimed the fourth win at the AfroBasket 2009 preliminary round. They
toppled Nigeria to improve at 4-1 record and clinched the third spot in Group B.
Angola will now face Mozambique at the quarterfinal stage. Nigeria slipped at
2-3 record and occupied the fourth position in the pool. They will take on
Senegal in the playoffs.
Angola looked too good for Nigeria in the first half. Defense work smoothly for
Angolan team as they held their opponents to just 8 points in the first quarter.
Angola entered the second period up by 6 points and continued to dominate
throughout the reminder of the half. The scoreboard read 30:18 at the interval.
However Nigeria came up with a decent answer in the third term. They sparked a
massive rally that resulted in a 39:37 lead for Nigeria with quarter remaining.
But Angola quickly came back to life and stormed to the win at the end. Luisa Tomas (83) netted 14 points for Angola.
Nassecela Mauricio (181-F-80) contributed 11
points and 8 rebounds in the victory.
Rashidat Sadiq (188-F-81) answered with 11
points and 6 boards for Nigeria.
Funmilayo Ojelabi (G) netted 10 points in the
loss.
Rwanda threw all they had before finally surrendering against Cote dIvoire in
the final game of the preliminary round of Afrobasket 2009. Cote d'Ivoire posted
the fourth win and clinched the second spot in Group B. They will now take on
Cameroon in the quarterfinal. Rwanda remained undefeated and would look for the
first win in the classification game against South Africa on Saturday.
Cote d'Ivoire raced to a good start. They were up by 8 after ten minutes of
action. But Rwanda slowed down their opponents. They limited Cote d'Ivoire to
just 12 points in the second frame and trailed by 9 at halftime. Cote dIvoire
continued to maintain the cushion heading into the fourth stanza up by 11
points. But Rwanda reeled off to a 23:16 fourth quarter nearly stunning their
counterparts. Salimata Berte (89) finished with 17 points and
8 boards for Cote d'Ivoire.
Kani Kouyate (90) added 17 points, 6 boards and
5 assists in the victory. Tatum responded with 21 points and 13 boards for
Rwanda. Grandberry netted 18 points in defeat.
Day 4 in Madagascar - Oct.
14, 2009 GROUP A
Cameroon-Mauritius 108:36
Cameroon smashed Mauritius 108:36 to improve to 2-2 record in Group A. The
fourth day of the 21st FIBA Africa Championship for Women in Antananarivo,
Madagascar remained the latter winless. Cameroon started to ruin the opponents
in the beginning of the game and did not slow down later in the game. The
advantage was enormous as the teams even left the court for the break. Cameroon
came back to the court and was a decent dominant in the court. Now in Day 5 the
team will face South Africa that lost to Mozambique last night. Mauritius will
play against Senegal that Senegal remains the only undefeated team at the 21st
FIBA Africa Championship for Women. In Day 4 the team overcame the hosts 90:39
for 4-0 record.
South Africa-Mozambique 47:54
Mozambique improved to 3-1 record in Group A after the victory over South Africa
in Day 4 of the 21st FIBA Africa Championship for Women. Antananarivo,
Madagascar saw 54:47 victory for Mozambique that is second in the group. South
Africa dropped at 1-3 and now is fifth in the group.
South Africa opened the game with 16-11 as both sides looked well in the
beginning of the game. Mozambique started to reduce the gap and produced 15-9 in
the second period for the halftime advantage. In the third period the latter
grabbed the lead after 19-13 in it. Effort made to come back into the game could
only yield a 12-09 points win in the last quarter as the Mozambique held their
ground.
Leia Dongue paced all the winners with 19 points and 7 rebounds. Lebwaba
finished the game with 18 points and 8 rebounds in the losing effort.
Mozambique will play next with Madagascar on Wednesday while South Africa will
engage Cameroon.
Madagascar-Senegal 39:90
Senegal remains the only undefeated team at the 21st FIBA Africa Championship
for Women. In Day 4 the team overcame the hosts 90:39 for 4-0 record.
Senegal opened the game with 15-7 in the opening quarter and never looked behind
after. The favorites added 26-9 in the second frame for 41:16 at the halftime.
The picture remained the same when the teams came back from the lockers as
Senegal controlled the entire game. With 28-12 they finished the third stanza
and closed the game with 21-11 in the last quarter.
Sene top-scored for the winners with 18 points to keep the perfect record with
her team.
Aya Traore (186-F-83, college:
Purdue) and Aminata Diop ended up with 13 points each in a win. Madagascars
Nahirae Solinasoa (C) 23 points the highest by any player on court could not
save her side from defeat.
In Day 5 Senegal will face Mauritius and will definitely win that game.
Madagascar will take on Mozambique.
GROUP B
Rwanda-Tunisia 53:59
Tunisia beat Rwanda 59:53 in Day 4 of the 21st FIBA Africa Championship for
Women in Antananarivo. The team improved to 1-3 in Group B. Rwanda meanwhile
remained winless in the tournament.
In the last day of the Preliminary Round Rwanda will face Ivory Coast that
Nigeria in a real thriller of Day 4 at the 21st FIBA Africa Championship for
Women in Antananarivo, Madagascar. In the game for the third victory Cote
d'Ivoire produced 44:41 victory to take 3-1 record on top. Tunisia will face
Mali that rolled over Angola in the top game of Day 4 as the team produced 63:51
and tied Angola at 3-1 record.
Cote d'Ivoire-Nigeria 44:41
Cote d'Ivoire beat Nigeria in a real thriller of Day 4 at the 21st FIBA Africa
Championship for Women in Antananarivo, Madagascar. In the game for the third
victory Cote d'Ivoire produced 44:41 victory to take 3-1 record on top. Nigeria
dropped to 2-2 in Group B.
That was the game with great defensive and offensive skills from both teams,
while Cote d'Ivoire grabbed the victory at the end. In Day 5 the team will face
Rwanda that lost to Tunisia in Day 4. Nigeria will play against Angola that was
beaten by Mali in the top game of the group. Day 5 will be the last day of the
Preliminary Round.
Mali-Angola 63:51
Mali rolled over Angola in the top game of Day 4 at the 21st FIBA Africa
Championship for Women in Antananarivo, Madagascar. The team produced 63:51 and
tied Angola at 3-1 record. Both teams together with Ivory Coast are the leaders
of the group and will take three top positions in the last day of the
Preliminary Round tomorrow. Nigeria however has 2-2 record and in case of the
win over Angola will take a higher spot.
Angola started with 20-9 after the opening quarter, but could not win any of the
other quarters. Mali responded with 14-9 in the second frame to trail 23:29 at
the halftime. In the third period Mali smashed the opponents 17-5 due to the
great defensive skills. The team reached the lead and did not lose it in the
rest of the game. Mali added 23-17 in the final stanza for the total success.
Naignouma Coulibaly (192-C-89) top-scored for the winners with 16 points and
7 rebounds. Maiga nailed 12, while
Djenebou Sissoko (190-F/C-82, college:
Union (TN)) posted 10. Mauricio finished the night with 20 points, while
Tomas collected 15 points and 8 rebounds.
In Day 5 Mali will play against Tunisia. The latter won over Rwanda 59:53 in Day
4. Angola will play against Nigeria in the top game of the last day in the
Preliminary Round.
Day 3 in Madagascar
- Oct. 12, 2009 Group A
Senegal - Cameroon 68:39 Senegal ensured the third straight win at the start of the 2009
AfroBasket. They topped Cameroon to remain on top of preliminary Group A.
Cameroon fell at 1-2 record after the loss.
Diodio Diouf (170-G-84) and
Aya Traore (186-F-83, college:
Purdue) paced balanced effort with 15 points each.
Senegal got to a sloppy start to the game. They won it by just two points 13:11
but left no chance for Cameroon in the second stanza. Senegal limited their
opponents to just 3 points in the period and earned a comfortable 35:14 lead at
halftime. Cameroon stopped the bleeding in the third frame but could not match
the 2007 vice-champions. Senegal raced to a 24-point buffer into the fourth
quarter. Senegal never slowed down and marched to the victory in the final
minutes. Fatou Dieng (170-G-85) tallied 12 points, 6 boards and 4 assists for the
winners.
Alvine Mendeng (184-G/F-81, college:
N.Carolina St.) responded with 13 points and 6 boards for Cameroon.
Amina Njonkou (185-F-88, college:
Arizona) had 10 points and 8 boards in defeat. Cameroon will face Mauritus,
while Senegal will take on hosting Madagascar in the next round.
Mozambique - Mauritius 121:31
Mozambique claimed the second win at the AfroBasket 2009. They coasted past
Mauritius to improve at 2-1 record in Group A. Mauritius are still looking for
the initial win at the inaugural African championship. Mozambique dominated
every aspect of the encounter as four players scored in double figures.
Filomena Micato (86) finished with 25 points to pace the winners.
Mozambique held their opponents to just 7 points in the starting frame to build
a 10-point lead at the first break. The second quarter turned into a one-way
traffic. Mozambique accounted for improbable 47 points to enjoy a massive
51-point lead at halftime. Things hardly changed after the main break.
Mozambique kept on dominating as they headed into the fourth stanza up by
unassailable 68 points. They just sealed the win in the fourth quarter.
Ana Azinheira (156-G-80) delivered 19 points in the win.
Ana Branquinho (185-C-77) contributed 18 points for Mozambique.
Isabelle Nemorin answered with 9 points and 8 rebounds for Mauritius.
Corinne Somauroo had 6 points and 6 rebounds in defeat.
Madagascar - South Africa 101:73
Madagaskar grabbed the second win at the home AfroBasket. They held off South
Africa in the third round of action in preliminary Group A. South Africa in the
meantime slipped at 1-2 record.
Agne Rasoambolanoro (F) came up with impressive 32 points, 8 assists and 4
boards to pace the hosts.
South Africa got to the better start. They consistently delivered in offense and
enjoyed a 25:22 lead at the first break. But Madagascar managed to level things
up in the second frame. The home team capitalized on the numerous turnovers from
South Africa to draw things level at 40. The third frame decided on the winner.
Madagascar shifted the gear and unleashed 35 points to build a comfortable
22-point lead. South Africa could not respond and had to bow at the end. Maiwenn Andriamilandy (G) knocked down 25 points for the winners. Prisca
Razananirina had 16 points for Madagascar.
Emmerentia Ledwaba (183-F-79) notched 13 points for South Africa. Blessed
Mtsweni delivered 11 points in the loss.
Group B
Mali - Rwanda 72:48 Mali regained the speed as they fired past Rwanda in the third round of
action at the AfroBasket. The reigning champions entered the game after a
shocking setback from Cote dIvoire in the second round. But Mali managed to get
back to life to take care of Rwanda. Mali improved at 2-1 record, while Rwanda
at 0-3 in Group B.
The defending champions could not clear off substantially in the opening frame.
Rwanda kept it close as they trailed by just 3 points at the first break. But
Mali stepped on the gas in the second quarter and left their opponents behind.
Naignouma Coulibaly (192-C-89) paced Mali as they ensured a 14-point lead at
halftime. Rwanda could not change the complexion of the battle after the main
break. They accounted for just 9 points in the third quarter to face a 23-point
deficit heading into the final stanza. Mali slowed down but still cruised to the
victory at the end. Naignouma Coulibaly produced 17 points and 9 rebounds for Mali.
Hamchetou Maiga (184-G/F-78, college:
ODU) added 14 points and 6 steals, while Djenebou Sissoko had 11 points and
9 rebounds in the win. Angellica Williams answered with 19 points. Ayebare had
12 points for Rwanda.
Angola - Cote d'Ivoire 66:55
Angola kept on posting wins at the 21st AfroBasket in Madagascar. This time they
dealt with Cote d'Ivoire to improve at 3-0 record on top of Group B.
Nassecela Mauricio (181-F-80) came up with 22 points and 7 boards in the
victory.
Cote d'Ivoire entered the game after a surprising rout of the defending
champions Mali in the second round. But their hopes to extend the winning streak
went astray against a well-organized Angolan team. Angola quickly posted a 22:13
lead at the end of the first frame. They maintained the advantage throughout the
second period and ensured a 35:26 lead into the halftime break. Cote d'Ivoire
revived the intrigue winning the third quarter by three points. But they ran out
of steam in the fourth period and had to digest the first loss at the tournament
at the end. Irene Guerreiro (170-F-70) knocked down 16 points in the victory.
Mariama Kouyate (88) produced 16 points in the losing case.
Nigeria - Tunisia 65:49 Nigeria recorded the second win in Group B. They toppled Tunisia to
take the second spot in the standings.
Rashidat Sadiq (188-F-81) came up with 16 points and 9 rebounds for Nigeria.
Tunisia suffered the third straight defeat and remained at the bottom of the
ladder. Nigeria led by just three points after ten minutes of action but they
won the second period 20:8 and never looked back en route to the victory.
Charity Egenti (191-C-85, college:
Stephen F. Austin) had 13 points, 6 boards and 3 assists in the victorious
case.
Day 2 in Madagascar
- Oct. 11, 2009 GROUP A
Cameroon -Madagascar 67:39
Cameroon ties Madagascar at 1-1 record after beating them in Day 2 of FIBA
Africa Championship for Women. Cameroon played better on Saturday with 67:39
victory. The guests opened the game 17-8 and added 19-18 before the halftime.
Cameroon also was better in the third period with 18-13 and 13-5 in the last
stanza.
Amina Njonkou (185-F-88, college:
Arizona) led the way with 20 points while Belle Mendeng added 10 points and
8 rebounds. In Day 3 Madagascar will host South Africa and Cameroon will take on
South Africa.
South Africa -Mauritius 70:29
South Africa and Mauritius battled for the first victory at the FIBA Africa
Championship for Women in Day 2. South Africa looked much better in the court to
smash the opponents 70:29 for 1-1 record. The winners started with 20-6 and then
added 14-10 for 34:16 halftime advantage. South Africa exploded with 17-4 in the
third quarter and had 19-9 to finish the game. Elizabeth Modiselle paced all the
winners with 18 points, while
Ellen Moutlwatse (86) added 14 points, 6 rebounds. Lungile Mtsweni
contributed 10 points to complete the beating of the Mauritius side. South
Africa will face Madagascar in Day 3 and Mauritius will take on Mozambique.
Senegal-Mozambique 73:37
Senegal rolled over Mozambique 73:37 in Day 2 of FIBA Africa Championship for
Women. Senegal became the only undefeated team in the group after two days. The
winners started with 17-7 in the opening quarter and added 17-4 due to the great
defense in the second quarter. They also won the third and the last quarters
respectively. Mame Diouf led the game with 16 points while Fatou Dieng and
Awa Gueye (182-F-78) contributed 12 points each. Mozambique tied their
record at 1-1. Senegal will take on Cameroon while Mozambique will take less
fancy Mauritius in Day 3.
GROUP B
Tunisia-Angola 56:62
Angola remained undefeated in the FIBA Africa Championship for Women after the
second day. The team overcame Tunisia 62:56 for 2-0 record. The latter played
better in the first quarter and grabbed 16-8 at the end of it. They however
faltered in the second quarter scoring only five points to Angola 24 to move
into the break with a 32:21 points deficit. Angola was managed to win the rest
of the game to remain undefeated.
Nassecela Mauricio (181-F-80) had 10 points 9 rebounds and 3 assists while
the duo of
Luisa Tomas (83) and Ngiendula Filipe contributed 10 points each for their
side hard earn victory. Maha Chelly top-scored with 15 points and 7 rebounds in
the losing effort. Tunisia will face Nigeria in Day 3 while Angola battle Cote
dIvoire.
Mali-Cote dIvoire 52:62
Cote dIvoire upset the defending champions of the FIBA Africa Championship for
Women. Mali lost to the opponent 52:62 as the latter grabbed the second straight
win. Mali however won the opening quarter 15-9, but then Cote dIvoire responded
with 21-7 in the second. The latter had 43:34 at the end of the third period and
led the game to the winning end.
Kani Kouyate (90) top-scored for the winners with 20 points and 5 steals.
Denaimou NGarsanet had a double double of 12 points and 12 rebounds. Naignouma
Coulibaly collected 13 points and 8 rebounds in defeat. Cote dIvoire will play
against Angola, while Mali taking on Rwanda.
Nigeria-Rwanda 79:49
Nigeria overcame Rwanda for 1-1 record at the tournament. The latter dropped at
0-2 and will hope for the initial win in the next games.
Day 1 in Madagascar - Oct.
10, 2009
GROUP A
Mauritius-Madagascar 42:86
The hosts of the 2009 AfroBasket Championship for Women overcame
Mauritius in the opener. Madagascar produced 86:42 for the first win at
home.
Madagascar opened the game with 21-7 and never looked behind after. The
hosts added 12-9 in the second frame to take 33:16 at the halftime. In
the third stanza Madagascar exploded with 24-8 and satisfied the
spectators of the Palais Des Sports. Mauritius managed to record 18
points in the last period, but it was not even enough to win the period.
The hosts nailed 29 points in the final period for the total success.
Madagascar made more Offensive and Defensive in the game. The hosts were
also better in steals, and assists stats. The guests made 35 Turnovers
versus 25 from the hosts. Nahirae Solinasoa
(C) led the way with 13 points and 7 rebounds.
Prisca Razananirina
(F) nailed 12, while Papisy and Elina scored 11 each.
Corinne Somauroo
ended up with 10 points in the losing effort and
Vanessa Speville
added 9.
In Day 2 Madagascar will face Cameroon, while Mauritius plays against
South Africa.
Senegal opened FIBA Africa Championship for Women with a thrash over South
Africa in Group A. Palaise Des Sports in Antananarivo, Madagascar saw an
easy 75:34 win for Senegal.
Senegal won the opening quarter 15-8 and never looked back after that. They
added 20-9 in the second period for 35-17 points advantage at the halftime.
In the third period South African team started to play better and lost only
2 points in 10 minutes. After 15-13 Senegal had 50:30 lead after three
quarters and even erupted in the last. Senegal destroyed South Africa 25-4
in the final stanza for the total success.
Senegal made 13 steals in comparison with 5 from South Africa. They were
much better in the Offensive Rebounds stats, however South Africa rebounded
on the Defensive for 26/25. Aya Traore
(186-F-83, college:
Purdue)
led the way for the winners with 17 points and 7 rebounds.
Awa Gueye
(182-F-78) followed her with 13, while
Aminata Diop
(196-C-82, college:
Georgetown)
netted 10 points.
Tuki Modiselle
(G) scored 7 points in the losing effort, while three other players posted 6
each.
In Day 2 Senegal will play against Mozambique, while South Africa will take
on Mauritius.
Mozambique-Cameroon 55:48
Mozambique won the opener of the AfroBasket Women 2009 in Antananarivo after
the win over Cameroon. The team beat the opponents 55:48 due to the
successful end.
Cameroon started the game offensively and won the opening quarter 16:12.
Cameroon maintained the same rhythm of game in the second frame and
increased to 33:26 at the halftime. The third quarter was decisive in the
game as Mozambique bounced back for 46:43 lead after three quarters.
Cameroon took the lead back at 49:46, however Mozambique stand up for the
lead and won the opener.
Mozambique made 14 steals versus 7 from the opponents. The team also had
more Offensive Rebounds, while Cameroon had 37 versus 26 Defensive Rebounds.
The latter fouled more and had more turnovers. Ana Azinheira (156-G-80) (156-G-80)
top-scored for the winners with 17 points for 1-0 record.
Filomena Micato
(86) nailed 8, while
Catia Halar
posted 7 points.
Alvine Mendeng
(184-G/F-81, college:
N.Carolina St.)
collected 15 points and 11 rebounds in defeat, while
Amina Njonkou
(185-F-88, college:
Arizona)
had 11 points and 10 boards. Ebonji and Djanjo added 5 points in the losing
effort.
In Day 2 Mozambique will face Senegal, while
Camerron will play with Madagascar.
Angola claimed the first win at the 2009
AfroBasket. They toppled Rwanda in Group B action.
Luisa Tomas
(83) scored 14 points and pulled down 8 rebounds to lead the charge.
The teams kept it very close in the opening frame. Angola earned just a
one-point lead at the first break 17:16. But they managed to clear off in the
second stanza.
Luisa Tomas
and
Nassecela Mauricio
(181-F-80) helped the Angolan team gain a 33:26 advantage at halftime. Defense
remained the key force for Angola. They limited Rwanda to 10 points in the third
stanza to enjoy an 8-point buffer heading into the fourth stanza. Rwanda never
recovered and had to surrender at the end. Nassecela Mauricio
produced 13 points and 7 rebounds for Angola.
Felizarda Jorge
(87) added 10 points in the win.
Mireille Karangwa
(C-79) responded with 15 points and 8 rebounds for Rwanda. Williams had 11
points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists in defeat.
Mali posted the initial win at the 2009 AfroBasket in Madagascar. They
toppled Nigeria in a highly intense game to close Day 1. The teams stressed
defense in this one. Nigeria grabbed a narrow 13:11 lead after the starting
quarter. Mali managed to impose their rhythm in the second frame. They won
it by 4 points 14:10 and grabbed a 25:23 lead at halftime. The third period
turned into a real anthem for the defensive style of game. The teams teamed
up for 15 points as Mali stretched the margin at 5 points heading into the
final quarter. Nigeria won the fourth period 8:7 but it was not enough to
succeed. Mali improved at 1-0 record in Group B. Hamchetou Maiga
(184-G/F-78, college:
ODU)
finished with 11 points for the reigning champions.
Rashidat Sadiq
(188-F-81) answered with 13 points and 10 boards for Nigeria in the loss.
Cote d'Ivoire - Tunisia 62:50
Cote d'Ivoire got to the winning start of the AfroBasket campaign in
Antananarivo. They toppled Tunisia in preliminary Group B.
Kani Kouyate
(90) came up with 18 points to pace Cote dIvoire to the victory.
The teams met just less than two weeks ago at the Francophone Games in Lebanon.
Tunisia was victorious that time but Cote dIvoire managed to avenge the loss.
Having an overwhelming dominance under the boards Cote d'Ivoire came from behind
in the second half to upset Tunisia.
Cote d'Ivoire enjoyed a narrow 16:14 lead at the first break. But Tunisia
returned into the game. They outgunned Cote d'Ivoire 15:9 in the second frame to
take a 4-point advantage at halftime. Cote d'Ivoire drew things level in the
third quarter. They pushed harder in the fourth stanza and their athletic style
of play paid off. Cote d'Ivoire raced to a comfortable victory in the final
stanza. Minata Fofana
(C-86) came up with 14 points and 7 boards for the winners.
Fatma Zagrouba
(F-82) replied with 12 points.
Rim Gannar
finished with 11 points and 7 rebounds in defeat.
