Final Day with stats: Tunisia wins the Gold
- Aug 28,
2011
FINAL
Angola - Tunisia
56-67
Tunisia make good its desire to be at the London 2012 Olympic Games when
it dethrone perennial champion Angola in a tension soaked grand finale
of the 26th edition of the FIBA Africa Championship for Men Sunday night
at the Palais des Sports Antananarivo, Madagascar. The Tunisia out
played the former champion in a department of the game with clinical
finishes that made the Angolan to make several mistakes causing them to
trail at the end of first by 11 points of 09-21, effort to mount
pressure on the Tunisia in the second quarter could only yeild them a
point gain of 20-19. The new champion roar back in the third quarter as
the most decorated African team lost in the third quarter agains by
12-14 points to go into last quarter with a 13 points deficit of 41-54
Angola however manage to snatch the last quarter by 15-13 points but the
rally was too late to save them from defeat as they drop the Africa
title after six unbroken run since 1999 when they reclaim the title on
home court after losing out in 1997 edition in Dakar, Senegal. Tunisia
Marouana Kechrid (178-PG-81) led his challenge for glory with 21
points, 7 rebounds and 2 assist,
Mohamed Hadidane (206-F-86) poured in 19 points, grabbed 7 rebounds
and 2 steals while
Amine Rzig (199-G-80) added 14 points, 3 rebounds and 2 steals with
the new lord of rim
Salah Mejri (216-C-86) grabbing 15 rebounds to give the FIBA Africa
Zone-1 side a well deserve victory. *By Olusegun Ikuesan
Third place
Nigeria - Ivory Coast
77-67
Nigeria senior national team, DTigers Sunday defeated 2009 runner-up
Cote DIvoire by 77-67 to finish third and a slot for London 2012 Olympic
Games playoffs. The Nigerian side who put behind the semi-final lose to
Angola Saturday rose to the challenge with a 20-17 and 20-10 points win
in the first and second quarters to take a 13 points lead going into the
break. Nigeria was however, slowed down in the third quarter by the
Ivoriens who back to pick the quarter by 18-23 but it was the Coach Ayo
Bakare tutored Nigerian side that carried the day as the romp on to a
19-17 points win in the fourt quarter to emd the series with bronze
medal after two championship misses in 2007 and 2009 where Nigeria best
was 5th placement. With the third place finish in the 26th edition in
Antananarivo, Madagascar Nigeria has earned for itself a Pre-Olympic
Games ticket in a yet to be named venue. Nigeria
Derrick Obasohan (199-F-81, agency:
Beo Basket, college:
Texas Arlington) led his team quest for honours with 19 points, 5
rebounds and 5 assists,
Michael Umeh (188-G-84, agency:
Pro One Sports, college:
UNLV)
had 14 points, 8 rebounds, 3 steals and 2 assists while the duo pf
Ikechukwu Ofoegbu (205-F-85, agency:
Paris Global Sports, college:
SMU)
and Ejike Ugboaja added 13 points, 5 rebounds and 11 points, 10
rebounds. *By Olusegun Ikuesan
Semifinals with stats - Aug 27, 2011
SEMIFINALS
Ivory Coast - Tunisia
57-60
The dream of Cote dIvoire of making championship second straight grand
finale was dashed Saturday by Tunisia in the first semi-finals of the
26th FIBA Africa Championship for Men at the Palais des Sports
Antananarivo, Madagascar by 57-60 points. Cote d'ivoire opened a six
points deficits in the first quarter by 16-22 but recover three in the
second and gained one more in the third quarter before slumping to a
point lose in the final quarter by 14-11, 16-15 and 11-12 for a final
score-line of 57-60 points. The Ivoriens were subdued by the Tunisian in
all department of the high profile game as it recorded 33 rebounds to 45
for Tunisia, 8 assists to 10 for Tunisia beat Tunisia in steal with 8
steal to Tunisia 5 but recorded just one block in the forty minute
duration of the game to Tunisia 5 blocks. Tunisia dependable forward
Macram Romdhane (198-F-89) led his side quest for a grand finale
ticket with a double double effort of 15 points, 10 rebounds, 2 steal
and one block-shot, centre
Salah Mejri (216-C-86) also had a double double of 14 points 12
rebounds and 3 block-shot with Marouan contributing 11 points, 5 assists
and 4 rebounds. The FIBA Africa Zone-1 power house and 2009 edition
third place side will keep a date against the second semi-final winner
between Nigeria and defending champion, Angola in the grand finale on
Sunday. *By Olusegun Ikuesan
Nigeria - Angola
68-76
Nigeria gave up a first quarter lead of 23-15 points to go down against
ten-time champion of FIBA Africa Championship for Men, Angola who
replied the first quarter eight points deficit to even score at
half-time winning the second quarter by 14-22. Nigeria again took the
initiative in the third quarter of the explosive semi-finals game to
gain a two points lead of 19-17 going into the fourth quarter with a
56-54 points advantage but it was the defending champion who had a last
laugh winning the last quarter by 12-22 points for a final scores of
68-76 points. Reigning most valuable player of the Afrobasket
Joaquim Gomes (200-C/F-80, college:
Valparaiso) led his team challenge for the continent sole London
2012 Olympic ticket with 15 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals and
one block-shot, veteran forward
Eduardo Mingas (200-F-79) had 15 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists
while the duo of Leonel Paulo and Felizardo Ambrosio had 14 points, 6
rebounds and 11 points, 3 rebounds respectively. With the win over
Nigeria in the second semi-finals Angola will now confront Tunisia in
the grand finale Sunday while Nigeria and Cote dIvoire battle for the
third place game also on Sunday. Winner of the 26th Afrobasket gain
automatic ticket to the basketball event of the London 2012 Olympic
Games while the second and third place side will compete against teams
from Europe, Americas, Asia and Oceania for the three extra slot
available. *By Olusegun Ikuesan
Places 5-6
Central Africa - Senegal
71-93
Senegal won the fifth place in Antananarivo. They outplayed Central
Africa 93-71 to take this spot. Central Africa finished as No.6.
Mouhammad Faye (208-F-85, college:
SMU)
was the leading player in victory once again. He scored 29 points for
his country.
Elhadji Ndiaye (199-F-86) had 17 points and 5 assists, while Babacar
Toure added 15 points and 8 boards. In defeat, Regis Koundjia-Sindo
collected 22 points and 7 rebounds. Maxime Zianveni was their second
scorer with 12 points. Quarters: 16-18, 12-26, 22-27, 21-22. Tunisia won
the Gold in Antananarivo. They dethroned Angola in the Finals.
Places 7-8
Cameroon - Morocco
69-67
Cameroon ended as seventh ranked team of AfroBasket 2011. They grabbed
69-67 thriller win against Morocco to take this spot. Morocco finished
as No.8. Gaston Essengue led the winners with 14 points. Alfred Aboye (9
rebs) and Christian Bayang (7 rebs) helped with 11 points each. In the
loosing squad,
Abderrahim Najah (198-F/C-84) responded with 19 points and 5
rebounds in loss.
Soufiane Kourodu (211-C-85) (6 rebs) and Hicham Amrallah scored 11
pts each. Quarters: 12-14, 19-16, 19-17, 19-20. Tunisia is the winner of
AfroBasket 2011. They dethroned Angola in the Finals.
Quarterfinals review with stats - Aug 26, 2011
QUARTERFINALS
Senegal - Ivory Coast 59-75
Over confidence was Senegal greatest undoing on Thursday in the second
quarter final of the 26th edition FIBA Africa Championship for Men
Madagascar 2011 Afrobasket as they loses to the fighting spirit and
determined Ivorian side by 59-75 points. It was the Senegalese first
lose in five games but a costly one at that as the are now confine to
play in the classification ranking 5-8 while Cote dIvoire progresses to
the semi-finals. Senegal who won the first quarter by 22-11 points soon
became a shadow of itself as it could not contain the energetis Ivorian
who has had not too impressive run from the group stage of the
championship forcing pundits to give the quarter final duel to Senegal
before the jump-ball. The determine Cote dIvoire side coached by Coach
Natxo Lezcano tutored side won the second, third and last quarters by
06-21, 16-20 and 15-23 points to land a semi final ticket. Cote d'Ivoire
Mamadi Diane (196-G/F-86, college:
Virginia) led his team in scoring with 17 points and 4 rebounds,
Guy Edi (196-G/F-88) added 12 points 5 rebounds and 2 assists while
Jonathan Kale (203-F-85, college:
Providence) had his best game so far in the championship grabbing a
double double of 12 rebounds, 11 poinst and 2 steals to seal victory for
the 2009 runner-up. *By Olusegun Ikuesan
Tunisia - Morocco
86-67
Tunisia Thursday book its semi-finals ticket with an 86-67 points
victory over Morocco in the third quarter finals of the 26th FIBA Africa
Championship for Men at the Palais des Sports Antananarivo, Madagascar.
The Tunisian were superb from the begining of the game to the buzzer
winning the first three quarters by 17-11, 22-13 and 22-18 points and
drew levels with their North African neighbour in the last quarter by 25
points apiece to move into the semi finals. Five Tunisian players
recorded a double figure on the score sheet with
Amine Rzig (199-G-80) leading his side with 16 points and 4
rebounds,
Radhouane Slimane (205-C-80) had 14 points and 8 rebounds
Salah Mejri (216-C-86) recorded a double double figure of 13 points,
11 rebounds and 2 block-shots. The duo of Marourad El-Mabrouk and
Mohamed Ghyaza added 12 points and 10 points, 6 rebounds to give their
side victory. *By Olusegun Ikuesan
Cameroon - Angola
83-84 OT
With less than twenty seconds left on the clock Cameroon came near to
picking a semi finals ticket but blew the chance when it matter most
giving the defending the opportunity to even scores forcing the game to
into over-time. Both side shared the first quarter with 24 points apiece
but Cameroon took the initiative in the second through free scoring
Chritian Bayang whose 28 points became worthless at the end of the game
losing the third, fourth and the resultant over-time by 13-19, 17-21 and
07-08 points for a final score-line of 83-84 points. Both sides share
the board with 51 rebounds each, while Cameroon gave 13 assists Angola
was two better with 15 assists, both sides again had 10 steals and 2
block-shots but its was the ten-time champion who carry the day winning
by just one point of 83-84 points at over-time. Angola hit-man
Carlos Morais (190-G-85) led his side with 23 points, 6 rebounds, 3
steals and 2 assists,
Armando Costa (192-G-83) had 19 points 7 rebounds, 4 assists and 3
steals with the duo of
Eduardo Mingas (200-F-79) and Felizardo Ambrosio contributing 14
points, 6 rebounds and 10 points 5 rebounds respectively. With the win
Angola will keep a semi-finals date against Nigeria on Saturday at 16H00
at the Palais des Sports Antananarivo Madagascar. *By Olusegun
Ikuesan
Nigeria - Central Africa
94-86
Nigeria DTigers Thursday survive the stiff challenge posed by its
quarter final foe Central Africa Republic winning by 94-86 points to
book a semi-final ticket in the 26th FIBA Africa Championship for Men at
the Palais des Sports Antananarivo, Madagascar. The Nigeria blew a 20
points way into the half minutes of the fourth quarter thus allowing the
Central Africa side to rally back and take the lead with 4.47 munites
left on the clock through Maxime Zianveni executed a lay-up to bring
score to 73-74 but the Nigerian side fought back like a wounded tigers
to take the sail beyond the determined Central Africa side in the last
munite of the tension soaked game to win at 94-86. Nigeria won the first
three quarters by 28-19, 20-18, 25-20 but lost the last quarter by 21-29
to set up a semi final duel against the winner of the quarter final game
between Cameroon and Angola. Nigeria
Derrick Obasohan (199-F-81, agency:
Beo Basket, college:
Texas Arlington) led the floor with 24 points, 3 rebounds and 3
assists dependable guard/forward
Ime Udoka (196-F/G-77, agency:
Priority Sports, college:
Portland St.) had 20 points 8 assists, 7 rebounds and 5 steals
points guard
Michael Umeh (188-G-84, agency:
Pro One Sports, college:
UNLV)
poured in 19 points while forward Ejike Ugboaja added 10 points and 7
rebounds for the hard earned victory for Nigeria. Nigeria Head Coach Ayo
Bakare praised his players fighting spirit and promised that the
Nigerian side will approach it semi-final game with utmost seriousness.
He however, gave kudos to the Central Africa side for giving the Nigeria
side a good fight, adding that the 26th edition of the championship is
indeed tough as most African countries have raised their game.
*By Olusegun Ikuesan
Places 9-10
Mali - Mozambique
61-55
Mali was better than Mozambique 61-55 in their last game at the
AfroBasket 2011. Thanks to this win Mali ended as No.9 at this event. Of
course, Mozambique finished as tenth ranked team.
Cheick Soumaoro (205-F/C-90) shined for Mali with 16 points and 10
rebounds in this meeting. He reached valuation 24.
Mamadou Sy (200-F-85, college:
Cloud County CC) (8 rebs) and
Mamadou Diarra (213-F-88) helped with 9 points each. In the loosing
squad,
Custodio Muchate (200-C-82) was better than the others with 14
points and 7 rebounds.
Augusto Matos (185-G-90) and
Octavio Magolico (200-C-84) had 9 and 8 points respectively.
Quarters: 7-9, 23-14, 17-14, 14-18. Championship in Antananarivo will
last three more days. As mentioned above, Mali and Mozambique ended
their participation.
Places 11-12
Egypt - Rwanda
76-66
Egypt celebrated against Rwanda 76-66 in their last game in
Antananarivo. Thanks to this win Egypt finished as 11th ranked team of
AfroBasket, while Rwanda is No.12. Both countries were eliminated in the
1/8 Finals.
Mohamed El-Kerdany (195-F-77) led Egypt to victory with
double-double of 19 points and 10 rebounds.
Ibrahim El-Gammal (188-G-88) had 12 points and 11 boards, while
Ahmed El-Sabagh (190-G-85) also scored 12 points, but to go with 8
rebounds. In Rwanda,
Kenneth Gasana (197-F-84) shined with 19 points, 5 rebounds and 6
assists.
Kami Kabangu (203-C-84) followed with 16 points and 8 rebs.
Quarters: 19-14, 16-15, 20-11, 21-26. Semifinals will be played tomorrow
and championship ends on Sunday. As mentioned above, Egypt and Rwanda
finished their participation.
Places 13-14
South Africa - Madagascar
61-82
The host of AfroBasket 2011 ended as No.13. They cruised past South
Africa 82-61 to take this spot in Antananarivo. On the other side, South
Africa finished as 14th ranked team.
Charles Ramsdell (208-F/C-85, agency:
Court Side, college:
Tulsa) was a key player for the winners. He spent 37 minutes on the
court collecting 22 points and 17 rebounds. Ramsdell reached valuation
35 and was the MVP of this meeting.
Romule Razafimahasahy (188-F/G-88) (6 rebs) and
Rovanantenaina Andrianjafy (173-F/G-89) (6 as) helped with 16 and 12
points respectively. In the loosing squad,
Brendan Mettler (190-G-82) led the scorers with 18 points (6 rebs).
Neo Mothiba (199-G/F-82) had double-double of 16 points and 15 rebs,
while
Shane Marhanele (198-G/F-82) added 13 pts. Quarters: 18-13, 14-23,
12-21, 17-25. Semifinals of AfroBasket are scheduled for tomorrow and
Big Final for Sunday.
Places 15-16
Togo - Chad
62-63
Chad finished as 15th ranked team of AfroBasket 2011 in Antananarivo.
They grabbed 63-62 victory against Togo yesterday to avoid the last
place at this event. Togo is No.16 with the worst score.
Richard Moguena (200-F-86) delivered 14 points for the winners.
Abderamane Mbaindiguim (195-F/G-82) had 12 points and 10 rebounds,
while
Djimtoide Ngarasde (199-F-87) helped his country with 12 points and
7 boards.
Mario Ngadi (200-F-86) was fourth scorer in victory with 11 points
(5 rebs). On the other side, Togo got 21 points from
Jimmy Williams (196-G-86, college:
Alders.-Broad.).
Mouctar Diaby (206-C-85) was their best player with 20 points and 16
rebounds. He reached valuation 25. Quarters: 19-22, 8-15, 20-19, 15-7.
1/8 Finals review with stats - Aug 25, 2011
Angola - Mozambique 82-71
Defending champion of the FIBA Africa Championship for Men Angola
Tuesday were made to sweat by fellow FIBA Africa Zone-6 side Mozambique
in the days last second round game winning to win the game by 82-71
points. The champion picked the first three quarters by 21-15, 18-17,
25-20 but lost the last quarter by 18-19 points to the determined
Mozambican side who finished third from group-A in a pairing many gave
the Coach Joseba Garcia no chance. Angola guard
Carlos Morais (190-G-85) led the floor with 25 points, 4 rebounds
and 3 assists with reigning championship most valuable player,
Joaquim Gomes (200-C/F-80, college:
Valparaiso) posted his best game since the championship began with
17 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists and 2 blocks. Angola will now keep a
quarter-final date with Cameroon on Thursday in what promise to be an
explosive game giving the pedegree of the Lions who yet to drop a game
in the championship. *By Olusegun Ikuesan
Ivory Coast - Rwanda
80-72
Coming from two quarters down in the eight final round of the 26th FIBA
Africa Championship for Men Cote dIvoire powered by
Guy Edi (196-G/F-88) who netted championship high of 34 points as
the 2009 runner-up roam into the quarter final with 80-72 points over
Rwanda. Taking a 33-44 points deficit into the break Cote dIvoire roar
back like a wounded Elephant to raid the offense area of Rwanda
resulting in the Ivorians winning the third and fourth quarters by 25-18
and 22-10 points respectively. Edi was joined on the scorer chart by
guard
Mouloukou Diabate (180-G-87) who poured in 16 points gave 5 assists
grabbed 4 rebounds and stole the ball from Rwanda players four times
with centre
Mohamed Kone (211-C-81, college:
Valparaiso) scoring 15 points and 7 rebounds. Cote dIvoire will
battle the winner of the eight final round between Senegal and host
Moadagascar in the quarter-finla on Wednesday at the Palais des Sports,
Antananarivo. *By Olusegun Ikuesan
Tunisia - South Africa
94-50
Tunisia lived up to its rating as one of the top favourites for the 26th
edition of FIBA Africa Championship title when it over-run South Africa
by 94-50 points in the round of eight finals. The FIBA Africa Zone-1
power-house and third in the 2009 beat South Africa to the four quarters
by 17-13, 24-13, 27-10 and 26-15 points to set up a quarter finals clash
with the winner of the eight round final game between Mali and Morocco.
Tunisia
Lassaad Chouaya (190-G-89) led his side macth to glory with 16
points, 2 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 steals,
Macram Romdhane (198-F-89) had 14 points, 8 rebounds and 3 steals.
Other Tunisian players who recorded double score figure against the
South Africans included Marouan Kechrid who scored 12 points with the
duo of Radhouane Slimane and Mohamed Ghyaza contributinf 10 points each.
*By Olusegun Ikuesan
Senegal - Madagascar
92-75
Senegal picked the seventh quarter final ticket with a 92-75 points
victory over host Madagascar on Wednesday at the Palais des Sports of
the 26th FIBA Africa Championship for Men. The bigger and stronger
Senegalese took the first three quarters by 26-13, 21-19 and 25-20
points to take a 20 points advanteg of 72-52 going into the last quarter
as the Madagascan mounted pressure on the Senegalese side in the fourth
quarter culminating in them losing the quarter by 20-23 points for a
final score-line of 92-75 points. Senegal
Mouhammad Faye (208-F-85, college:
SMU)
led his team in scoring with 19 points and 5 rebounds big centre
Papa Diasse (212-F-87, college:
SMU)
had a double double effort of 16 points, 11 rebounds, 3 assists and 2
blocks, Boubacar Goly and Mamadou Ndoye added 12 points, 8 rebounds and
11 points respectively. Senegal will keep a date with Cote dIvoire in
the second quarter-final on Thursday. *By Olusegun Ikuesan
Mali - Morocco
59-80
After securing an early lead of 20-11 points in the first quarter of the
last eight final round against Morocco Mali failed to lift its game thus
allowing the Moroccan to over-run it from the second quarter losing by
08-22, 20-24 and 11-23 points for a cumulative scores of 59-80 points.
Morocco forward
Abderrahim Najah (198-F/C-84) led his side quest for victory with a
double double effort of 15 points, 10 rebounds.
Abdelhakim Zouita (201-F-86) had 15 points, 4 rebounds, Sophain
Rafai and Kamal Hachid added 14 points, 4 rebounds and 13 points, 4
rebounds respectively. Morocco now has a date against fellow FIBA Africa
Zone-1 side and second runner-up in the 2009 edition of the Afrobasket,
Tunisia on Thursday at the Palais des Sports Antananarivo, Madagascar.
*By Olusegun Ikuesan
Nigeria - Chad
84-46
Nigeria became the first country to reach the final eight of the 26th
FIBA Africa Championship for Men with an 84-46 points victory over Chad
in the round of eight final Tuesday afternoon at the Palais des Sports
Antananarivo, Madagascar. The Coach Ayo Bakare tutored Nigerian side had
adopted a moderate approach to the game winning the first two quarters
by 23-09 and 22-04 for a half-time scores of 45-13 points but decide to
slow down thus allowing the Chadian to pick the third quarter by 12-16
points but rally back to take the fourth and final quarter by 27-17
points for a final scores of 84-46 points. Nigeria
Ime Udoka (196-F/G-77, agency:
Priority Sports, college:
Portland St.) led the Nigerian side with 14 points, 4 rebounds and 4
assists,
Derrick Obasohan (199-F-81, college:
Texas Arlington) added 12 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists while
forward
Ejike Ugboaja (204-F/C-85) had a double double figure of 10 points,
10 rebounds and 2 assists to earn Nigeria a quarter-final ticket.
Nigeria will battle the winner of the eight final round game between
Central Africa Republic and Egypt in the quarter-final on Thursday.
*By Olusegun Ikuesan
Cameroon - Togo
85-52
Cameroon Tuesday joined Nigeria in the quarter-final of the 26th FIBA
Africa Championship for Men after seeing off Togo by 85-52 points in the
second eight final round at the Palais des Sports, Antananarivo,
Madagascar. The Lions picked the first three quarters by 22-13, 16-08
and 34-16 points losing the last quarter by 13-15 points.
Parfait Bitee (188-G-85) led other players on the court with 16
points and 7 assists, forward
Gaston Essengue (203-F-83, college:
UNLV)
and Franck Ndongo added 13 points and 4 rebounds each. *By
Olusegun Ikuesan
Central Africa - Egypt
71-66
Central Africa Republic Tuesday join the likes of Nigeria and Cameroon
in the quarter-final of the 26th FIBA Africa Championship for Men with a
71-66 points victory over Egypt. Central Africa powered on by guard
Michael Mokongo (180-PG-86) who netted 15 points, 4 assist and 3
rebounds won the first and third quarters by 18-12 and 19-13 points but
gave up the second and fourth quarters by 16-17 and 18-24 points to put
paid to the ambition of the Egyptian from advancing to the
quarter-finals. Mokongo was joined on the score sheet by the duo of
Lionel Bomayako (196-G-78, agency:
Court Side, college:
Fairleigh Dickinson) and Guy Kodjo-Sitchi with 12 points each with
Regis Kounjia grabbing 17 rebounds for the FIBA Africa Zone-4 side.
*By Olusegun Ikuesan
Preliminary Round is over, Day Six review with stats - Aug 23,
2011
Group B
Senegal - Chad
92-54 Papa Diasse (212-F-87, college:
SMU)
was at his best Monday as he led Senegal offense against Chad in their
last group-B game of the 26th FIBA Africa Championship for Men at the
Palais des Sports Antananarivo, Madagascar. The 2.12 metre tall centre
notch up a double double figure of 31 points, 10 rebounds and 3 assists
to give Senegal a 92-54 points victory to maintain a clean slate. Dia
was joined by the duo of
Mouhammad Faye (208-F-85, college:
SMU)
and
Mohamed Diop (198-F-81) on the scorer sheet with 16 points, 4
rebounds, 4 assists and 11 points, 4 rebounds and 3 steals. Senegal will
take on host Madagascar in the next round of the championship on
Tuesday. *By Olusegun Ikuesan
Morocco - Angola
61-75
Morocco Monday lost to defending champion of the FIBA Africa
Championship for Men by 61-75 points and finished in group-B will
therefore confront Mali in the eight final round on Wednesday. Morocco
took the first quarter by 16-15 points but were beaten to the game in
the remaining three quarters by the ten-time champion of Africa biggest
basketball competition by 16-24, 18-22 and 11-14 points for a final
scores of 61-75 points. Angola guard
Armando Costa (192-G-83) led evry one on court with 21 points, 4
assists and 2 rebound with
Felizardo Ambrosio (201-F-87) adding 16 points, 3 rebounds and 2
assists as Angola finish the preliminary series in second place and will
confront Mozambique Tuesday night. *By Olusegun Ikuesan
Group D
Central Africa - Tunisia
52-65
Central Africa Repulic Monday failed to stop 2009 third place team,
Tunisia in the battle for the top seed of group-D losing by 52-65 points
of the 26th Afrobasket. The FIBA Africa Zone-4 nation lost in the first
and last quarters by 13-22 and 16-23 points but manage to win by a slim
margin in the second and third quarters by 14-12 and 09-08 points in a
keenly contested battle of supremacy. Tunisia veteran Radhouane led his
team with 14 points, 3 rebounds and 2 assists while the duo of Mourad
El-Mabrouk and Marouan Kechrid added 13 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists
and 13 points and 4 assists respectively with Central Africa
Michael Mokongo (180-PG-86) leading the floor with 26 points. Wih
the results Central Africa thus end the first round series in second
position as Tunisia finished first, Central Africa will now keep a date
with Egypt in the eight round finals on Tuesday while Tunisia battle
South Africa on Wednesday. *By Olusegun Ikuesan
Rwanda - Togo
87-67
Rwanda Monday finish third in group-C with an 87-67 points victory over
Togo in both sides last group game at the Palais des Sports,
Antananarivo, Madagascar. Rwanda open the game with a 27-08 and 24-10
points advantage in the first and second quarters but Togo stage a late
come-back from the beginning of the third quarter forcing Rwanda to
commit mistake though the insurgence was late to save them from defeat
but Rwanda lost both quarters by 21-23 and 15-26 points. Herbert Gasana
led the floor with 19 points, 9 assists, 2 rebound and 2 steal, forward
Robert Thomson (208-C-82, college:
Fairfield) contributed 18 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assist and 2 steal
with Bradley Cameron grabbing a double double of 13 points, 10 rebounds,
5 assists and 5 steals to earn Rwanda its first win of the championship.
Rwanda will battle Cote dIvoire Wednesday in the eight final round at
15H00. *By Olusegun Ikuesan
Day Five in Antananarivo (with stats) - Aug 22,
2011
Group A
Nigeria - Madagascar
112-81
Nigeria Sunday night finish top of group-A without dropping a game with
a 112-81 last group game victory over Madagascar to set up Tuesday Eight
Round Final date against Chad who has been confine to the bottom of
group-B. Nigeria opened the exciting game with a 25-19 points first
quarter win it settle for an even score with the host of 30 points
apiece to take a 55-49 points lead into the half-time. DTigers as the
Nigeria senior national team is known took a step further winning the
third and fourth quarters by 20-13 and 37-19 points respectively to end
the game at 112-81 points to lead the group with Mali placing second
while Mozambique finish third. Nigeria
Derrick Obasohan (199-F-81, college:
Texas Arlington) led the floor with 21 points and 2 rebounds, point
guard
Michael Umeh (188-G-84, agency:
Pro One Sports, college:
UNLV)
netted 19 points, 5 assists, 3 rebounds and 2 steals, centre
Oyedeji Olumide (208-C/F-81) had a double double of 17 points, 13
rebounds and one block-shot,
Ime Udoka (196-F/G-77, agency:
Priority Sports, college:
Portland St.) added 10 points, 9 rebounds, 6 assists and 2 steals
with Solomon Tat contributing 10 points and 2 rebounds. *By
Olusegun Ikuesan
Mali - Mozambique
72-69 OT2
Mali edge Mozambique by 72-69 points in a thriller game that provided
double over-time to earn it second win in group-A of the 26th FIBA
Africa Championship for Men in Palais des Sports Antananarivo,
Madagascar. Mali had trailed the Mozambican by 12-14 points in the first
quarter of the game that kept fans cheering ceaselessly but step up it
game to win the second quarter by 17-06 points to take a 29-20 points
lead going into the break but gave up the lead as Mozambique charged
back in the third quarter by 15-27 points to trail by 44-47 points at
the end of the third quarter. The fourth quarter provided Mali another
opportunity as they even scores at 59 points apiece at the end of the
fourth quarter, the first over-time also saw both sides refusing to
give-in as they both scored 6 points each to set the stage for a second
over-time which the Malian eventually won by 07-04 points for a final
score-line of 72-69 points. Mali guard
Waly Coulibaly (190-G-88) led his team with 15 points, 3 rebounds
and 3 assists,
Mohamed Tangara (208-F/C-84, agency:
Dynamics Global Management, college:
Arizona) poured in 14 points grabbed 9 rebounds and had 4 steals
while
Modibo Niakate (185-G-81, college:
Cleveland St.) contributed 12 points and 2 rebounds for their side
strong win. *By Olusegun Ikuesan
Group C
Cameroon - Ivory Coast
76-70
Cameroon won the battle of leading group-C with a 76-70 points victory
over Cote dIvoire thus keeping an hundred percent record after the
preliminary round of its group at the 26th Madagascar 2011 Afrobasket
for Men Sunday night. Cameroon won the first three quarters by 18-11,
24-22 and 20-19 points while it lost the last quarter by 14-18 points.
Cameroon centre
Gaston Essengue (203-F-83, college:
UNLV)
led his side charge for a comfortable first round finish with 19 points,
7 rebounds and 2 steals,
Alfred Aboya (206-F/C-85, college:
UCLA)
had 17 points and 6 rebound with guard Christain Bayang scoring 15
points, 5 rebounds and 2 steals for the Lions victory. *By
Olusegun Ikuesan
Egypt - South Africa
68-71
South Africa won their first game in Antananarivo. It was a 71-68
victory against Egypt. Both teams ended with 1-2 record in Preliminary
Group C and Ivory Coast has the same numbers. In this circle Ivory Coast
is No2, Egypt No.3 and South Africa ended as the last ranked team in
this pool. Cameroon won it with 3-0.
Christopher Gabriel (214-C-88) shined with 14 points and 11 rebounds
in victory.
Neo Mothiba (199-G/F-82) and
Kegorapetse Letsebe (198-G/F-80, college:
Goucher) (6 rebs) helped with 11 and 10 points respectively.
Ramy Gunady (185-G-81) stepped up for Egypt with 21 points and 5
rebounds. Their second scorer was El-Gammal with 9 points. Quarters:
22-11, 17-13, 16-29, 13-18. Championship continues tomorrow.
Day Four in Antananarivo (with stats) - Aug 21,
2011
Group B
Angola - Senegal
78-85
Ten time winner of FIBA Africa Championship for Men Angola Saturday
night suffered its first defeat in the last five editions of Africa
biggest basketball championship The Afrobasket losing by 78-85 points to
the Lions of Senegal. The defending champion opened a 30-18 points lead
in the first quarter but the Lions charged back from th second quarter
and never looked back with Maleye Ndoye putting Senegal ahead for the
first time with one minute ten seconds left in the second quarter with a
perfectly taken three point shot, Angola replied almost immediately
through Lionel Paulo but
Malick Badiane (211-F/C-84) shot Senegal into the lead before the
break with a steeler shot to give Senegal a two points lead og 44-46
going into the break. Efforts by Joaquim Gomes and his teammates to come
back into proceeding was rebuffed by the never-say-die Senegalese who
dominted the game winning the third and fourth quarter by 21-24 and
13-15 points. Senegal guard
Mamadou Ndoye (79) led his team with 22 points, 5 rebounds and 3
assists,
Mouhammad Faye (208-F-85, college:
SMU)
added 18 points, 5 assists, 3 assists and 3 steals with hard working
centre,
Malick Badiane contributing 14 points and 7 rebounds for the Lions
victory. *By Olusegun Ikuesan
Chad - Morocco
57-89
After initial good start in the first quarter against morocco earning a
respectable score-line of 17-20, Chad faded away after ward losing the
three remaining quarter by 13-20, 06-17 and 21-32 points in it second
group-B game Saturday. Both sides lost their opening games with Morocco
being more daring to register a win which they achieved effortlessly
over the new-comer to set up a final group game against defending
champion Angola on Monday while Chad will have its hands full when it
confront five-time champion Senegal. Tunisia
Abdelhakim Zouita (201-F-86) led the floor with 25 points, 5
rebounds,4 assists, 2 steals and 2 block-shots. Zouita who play club
competition for AS Sale basketball club contributed greatly to his side
dominance over Chad he was joined on the scorer sheet
Soufiane Kourodu (211-C-85) who netted 18 points, 9 rebounds, 3
assists and one block shot and Abderrahim Najah with 15 points, 7
rebounds, 3 steals, 2 assists and one block-shot. *By Olusegun
Ikuesan
Group D
Tunisia - Rwanda
69-37
22009 third place finisher Tunisia Saturday evening proved that it
achievement in Libya two years was not a fluke when it put up a great
performance in group-D beating Rwanda by 69-37 points to keep a clean
slate. The strong FIBA Africa Zone-1 power house won in all four
quarters by 10-09, 17-07, 19-09 and 23-13 points to remain top of the
group which comprises Central Africa Republic who also enjoy the
priviledge of remaining unbeaten, Togo and Rwanda. Tunisia key player,
Macram Romdhane (198-F-89) led the floor with 20 points and 6
rebounds, Romdhave was joined his two compatriots
Mohamed Hadidane (206-F-86) and Amine Rzig who both score 10 points
each. A clash between Tunisia and Central Africa Republic on Monday will
determine who lead the group to the round of eight finals. *By
Olusegun Ikuesan
Togo - Central Africa
57-82
The hope of Togo of making any appreciable impact in group-D of the 26th
FIBA Africa Championship for Men was completely shot-down Saturday by
mobile Central Africa Republic side. Togo gave up the first quarter by
12-22 points but showed some promises in the second quarter winning by
19-15 points to cut down the margin between it the FIBA Africa Zone-4
nation to six points going into the break by 31-37 points, it continue
the flare in the third quarter losing by just two points 17-19 points to
enter the last quarter with eight points deficits of 48-56 points. And
when many had thought that the Coach Guy Arneaud tutored Togolese side
they gave in to the superior fire power of the Central Africa side
losing the last quarter by 09-26 points for a final scores of 57-82
points. Central Africa
Max Kouguere (198-F-87) led the floor with 24 points, 4 rebounds, 2
assists and 2 steals,
William Kossangue-Toro (198-F-86) had 14 points, 9 rebounds, 4
assists and 2 steals with Guy Kodio-Sitchi contributing 14 points, 2
rebounds, 2 steals and one assist. *By Olusegun Ikuesan
Day Three in Antananarivo (with stats) - Aug
20,
2011
Group A
Madagascar - Mali
63-74
Not even the presence of over 5,000 fans could save Madagascar from
suffering its second defeat in group-A of the 26th FIBA Africa
Championship for Men as it go down to a rejuvenated Mali by 63-74 points
in Antananarivo. After taking a 23-14 points first quarter advantage
Madagascar failed to maintain the tempo thus allowing the Malian to
fight back in the second quarter forcing Madagascar to make series of
mistakes Madagascar eventually lost the second , third and fourth
quarters by 07-13, 17-23 and 16-24 points respectively. Mali play-maker
and point guard
Modibo Niakate (185-G-81, college:
Cleveland St.) led the floor with 20 points, 5 rebounds, 4 steals
and gave 2 assists for his side hard earn win. Mali reliable forward
Mohamed Tangara (208-F/C-84, agency:
Dynamics Global Management, college:
Arizona) had an excellent game posting a double double figure of 19
points, 10 rebounds and 2 assists while 2006 FIBA Africa Championship
for U18 Men most valuable player
Waly Coulibaly (190-G-88) added 11 points, 3 assists, 2 rebounds and
2 steals to seal victory for their side who now have a 1-1 record.
*By Olusegun Ikuesan
Mozambique - Nigeria
63-78
Mozambique was down by Nigeria in both sides second group-A game Friday
at the 26th FIBA Africa Championship for Men Madagascar 2011 Afrobasket.
The Mozambican lost by 63-78 points to a more composed Nigerian side.
The Mozambican lost the first three quarters by 11-20, 21-23, 14-18 and
drew levels in the last quarter by 17 points apiece. Nigeria and San
Antonio Spurs guard, Ime Udoka led the Coach Ayo Bakare tutored Nigerian
side with a treble effort of 13 points, 11 assists, 10 rebounds and 2
steals to give DTigers as the Nigeria senior national team is known a
clean slate. DTigers and former Union Bank basketball club of Lagos
forward
Ejike Ugboaja (204-F/C-85) added 12 points, 7 rebounds and 2
block-shots, shooting sensation
Derrick Obasohan (199-F-81, college:
Texas Arlington) had 11 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists,
Oyedeji Olumide (208-C/F-81) contributed 10 points and 9 rebounds
with Nigeria DStv Premier Basketball League reliable Abubakar Usman
recording seventy-five percent from the three pointer scoring three of
four attempt in the few minutes he stepped on court. *By
Olusegun Ikuesan
Group C
Ivory Coast - Egypt
75-82
Cote dIvoire hope of making it two-on-two was dashed by Egypt in a
group-C tie of the 26th FIBA Africa Championship for Men after taking a
19-13 points lead in the first quarter. The Ivorians bow to the superior
fire power of the Ibrahim El-Gammal in the second quarter losing by
16-27 points for a half-time deficit of 35-40 points. Cote dIvoire tried
to come into the game at the resumption of play in third quarter yielded
a 17-14 points win taking a two points deficit going into the last
quarter but gave up when it matter most losing the fourth and decisive
quarter by 23-28 points for a final score-line of 75-82 points. Gammal
led the floor with 21 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists, Mohamed El-Kerdany
had 11 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists with Amr El-Gendy adding up 11
points, 2 rebounds and 2 steal to restore the hope of the five-time
champion after losing its group-C opener to Cameroon on Wednesday.
*By Olusegun Ikuesan
South Africa - Cameroon
65-87
With better improvement from their Group-C opening game against Cote
dIvoire on Wednesday South Africa Friday loses its second first round
game to Cameroon by 65-87 points. Though South Africa lost the first
three quarters 17-23, 13-17, 11-24 and won the last one by 24-23 points
their fighting spirit was never in doubt as they showed lots of
improvement and promises. Cameroon big forward
Gaston Essengue (203-F-83, college:
UNLV)
led the floor with 18 points, 4 steals and 3 rebounds,
Cyrille Makanda (195-G-80) had 15 points and 3 rebounds,
Parfait Bitee (188-G-85) added 13 points, 3 rebounds, 3 assists and
2 steals with Frank Ndongo posting 12 points, 4 steals and 3 rebounds
for the second win for the Lions. Cameroon coach Lazare Adingono praised
the fighting spirit of the South African. The coach whose side face Cote
dIvoire on Sunday in his team last group-C game said they are not under
any pressure. Coach Adingono also thumm-up effort of FIBA Africa in
raising the stake of Africa basketball but concluded that the continent
can do more. *By Olusegun Ikuesan
Day Two in Antananarivo (with stats) - Aug
19,
2011
Group B
Morocco - Senegal
65-79
With defeat steering them in the face Senegal rose to the challenege to
subdue Morocco in the last quarter of its group-D tie of the 26th FIBA
Africa Championship for Men. The high tempo game began with both side
matching each other wit for wit as the first quarter ended 18 points
apiece but it was Morocco who took the initiative in the second quarter
with a 25-11 points win to go into the break with a 43-29 points lead.
Moroccos effort at sustaining the tempo was meet with stiff opposition
from the Senegalese who knows the importance of winning a first group
game, Morocco lost the quarter by 11-24 points as Senegal narrow the
margin to just one point going into the last quarter. The strong
determination of the Senegalese side coached by Alain Weisz came to the
fore when El-Hadji Ndoye took a three pointer in the opening seconds of
the last quarter to put the Lions ahead for the first time in the game,
the lead was all they needed as motivation as they never looked back
through the buzzer claiming the quarter by 11-26 points for a final
score-line of 65-79 points.
Maleye NDoye (203-F-80, college:
Furman) led the floor with 23 points, 3 rebounds and 2 assists,
Mouhammad Faye (208-F-85, college:
SMU)
added 17 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists with
Malick Badiane (211-F/C-84) grabbing a double double of 14 points
and 11 rebounds. *By Olusegun Ikuesan
Angola - Chad 115-56
Defending champion Angola shined in their first appearance at the
AfroBasket 2011 in Antananarivo. They destroyed Chad 115-56 for 1-0
record in Preliminary Group B.
Carlos Morais (190-G-85) was the leading player in victory with 25
points and 6 rebounds. He reached valuation 24 and was the MVP of this
meeting.
Joaquim Gomes (200-C/F-80, college:
Valparaiso) had 15 points and 7 rebounds, while
Simao Santos (198-F-79) and
Milton Barros (184-G-84) helped with 12 points each. On the other
side, Chad had only one player with double-digits in scoring. It was
Mickael Koibe (198-F/G-92) with 11 pts.
Richard Moguena (200-F-86) (5 rebs) and Mario Ngadi netted 8 points
each. Quarters: 35-17, 33-7, 21-13, 26-19. In the next game, Angola will
play against Senegal. Chad will meet Morocco.
Group D
Tunisia - Togo
103-56
Tunisia make mince meat of Togo in its group-D opening game Thursday at
the Day-2 of the 26th edition of the FIBA Africa Championship for Men
Madagascar 2011 Afrobasket with a 103-56 points victory. The 2009 third
place finisher showed its determination to be counted among Africa
basketball power-house from the jump-ball winning in all four quarters
by 28-11, 30-16, 25-13 and 20-16 to put paid to the ambition of the
Togolese side of creating an upset. Tunisia
Macram Romdhane (198-F-89) led his team with 20 points 8 rebounds, 4
assists, 2 steals and one block-shot,
Mourad El Mabrouk (190-G-86) added 12 points while Salah Mijri
contributed 10 points, 6 rebounds and 4 block. Togo shooting guard,
Jimmy Williams led the floor with 25 points but the effort was not good
enough to see his side go down by 47 points. *ByOlusegun Ikuesan
Central Africa - Rwanda
89-61
Central Africa Republic Thursday handed down an 89-61 points defeat to
Rwanda in a group-D preliminary round of the 26th FIBA Africa
Championship for Men in Antananarivo, Madagascar. The Central African
side who was without Roman Sato won the first three quarters by 26-11,
26-20 and 21-14 points but shared the last quarter by 16 points apiece
with Rwanda controlled the game from the jump-ball to the buzzer thus
opening a group leadership race with Tunisia who earlier in the day
defeated Togo by 103-56 points. Central Africa
James Mays (206-F-86, college:
Clemson) led the floor with 24 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assist,
Regis Koundjia-Sindo (203-F-83, college:
George Washington) recorded 13 points and 5 rebounds while the duo
of
Lionel Bomayako (196-G-78, agency:
Court Side, college:
Fairleigh Dickinson) and Max Martial Kounguere added 12 points and
10 points 5 rebounds and 2 steals for their side victory. *By
Olusegun Ikuesan
Day One in Antananarivo (with stats) - Aug 18,
2011
Group A
Madagascar - Mozambique
67-77
Support by a large turn-out of supporters host of 26th FIBA Afria
Championship for Men Madagascar failed to appreciate its supporters as
it fell to more determined Mozambican side by 67-77 points in a group-A
pairing. The madagascan surrender in the first and second quarters by
12-18 and 14-18 points to trail by ten points at the break 26-36 points.
The Coach Angel Manzano Polo tutored however came into the third quarter
with a mind-set to upturn the table against the Mozambican, their effort
paid off when they won the quarter by 23-18 points to reduce the margin
to just five points going into the last quarter 49-54 but determination
saw the Mozambican side through as they mount ceaseless pressure on the
Madagascar side forcing they to drop the last quarter by 18-23 points.
Mozambique
Stelio Nuaila (196-F-85) led his side with 15 points, 4 steals and 3
rebounds,
David Canivete (193-F-89) and
Fernando Mandlate (191-G-85) added 12 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assists
and 12 points 4 rebounds 4 steals and 2 assists for their side vital win
of the opening day. *By Olusegun Ikuesan
Nigeria - Mali
84-59
Nigeria made a bold statement in group-A of the 26th edition of the FIBA
Africa Championship for Men tagged; Madagascar 2011 Afrobasket with an
84-59 points win over Mali. The Nigerian side coached by Ayo Bakare rose
from a 20-22 points deficit in the first quarter to put paid to the
ambition of the Malian from the second quarter through the last winning
by 18-05, 18-14 and 28-18 points. Nigeria dominated the Malian on the
board with a total of 42 rebounds to Mali 23 while the Malian recorded
22 turn-over with Nigeria 16.
Derrick Obasohan (199-F-81, agency:
Beo Basket, college:
Texas Arlington) led the Nigerian challenge with 15 points and 4
rebounds,
Oyedeji Olumide (208-C/F-81) showed great presence with 11 points
and 8 rebounds, point guard
Michael Umeh (188-G-84, agency:
Pro One Sports, college:
UNLV)
contributed 11 points 5 rebounds and 3 asists just as Ime Udoka added 10
points and 4 rebounds to give Nigeria a well deserved victory.
*By Olusegun Ikuesan
Group C
Ivory Coast - South Africa
105-53
Cote dIvoire open its Madagascar 2011 Afrobasket campaign with a 105-53
points win over South Africa in group-C opener. The 2009 edition
runner-up won three of the four quarters by 27-08, 33-10, 29-19 while it
drew level with the South African in the last quarter by 16 points
apiece for a cumulative scoreline of 105-53 points to send a warning
that its 2009 second placement was not a fluke. Cote dIvoire energetic
shooting guard/small forward
Guy Edi (196-G/F-88) was the star-man of the Ivorian side netting 19
points points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists,
Mamadi Diane (196-G/F-86, college:
Virginia) added 17 points, 4 rebounds amd 2 steal, Didier Eric Tape
had 14 points, 4 assists and 3 rebounds while
Errick Craven (188-G-83, college:
USC)
contributed 10 points and 3 steals for the Mdagascar 2011 Afrobasket
opening game win for Cote dIvoire. *By Olusegun Ikuesan
Cameroon - Egypt
96-81
Indomitable Lions of Cameroon Wednesday night stopped the foray of
five-time African cup of Nations champion, Egypt with a 96-81 points
victory in its group-C opening game. Cameroon took the first two
quarters in grand style by 27-11 and 25-24 points to take a 52-35 points
lead at half-time, though the Lazarus Adingono coached Lions gave up the
third quarter by 24-28 points but rose to the challenge in the last
quarter making a loud statement in a group that conprises 2009 eunner-up,
Cote dIvoire winning by a slim margin of 20-18 points for a final
score-line of 96-81 points. Cameroon
Parfait Bitee (188-G-85) recorded a championship high of 29 points,
7 assists and 3 rebounds, he was joined by teammates
Cyrille Makanda (195-G-80) with 18 points and 4 steals,
Franck Ndongo (198-F-88) 15 points and 3 rebounds and
Gaston Essengue (203-F-83, college:
UNLV)
12 points and 5 rebounds. Lions coach, Adingono declared after the game
that the best is yet to be seen of his side, Yes we won confortably
against Egypt but I want to assure our fans and lovers of the game
across Africa that the best is yet to be seen of the Cameroon side. The
Olympic slot is our target and we are determined to fight for it, the
Cameroon coach concluded. *By Olusegun Ikuesan
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