2025 AfroBasket: Mali advanced to the Final in Angola

Mali - Senegal 88-80

Mali defeated Senegal 88–80 in a thrilling encounter decided by a strong second-quarter performance. Senegal opened the game better, edging the first quarter 22–19, but Mali responded with intensity in the second period, outscoring their opponents 24–13 to take control of the contest. After halftime, both teams traded baskets in a balanced third quarter, 24–23 for Mali, keeping the gap intact. Senegal pushed hard in the final stretch, winning the fourth quarter 22–21, but Mali held their ground to secure the victory. The decisive moment came in the second quarter, where Mali’s defensive discipline and efficient scoring created a cushion that proved too difficult for Senegal to overcome.
Mahamane Coulibaly (206-C-2001) top-scored for the winners with 23 points and Oumar Ballo (213-C-2002, college: Indiana) poured in 19. Jean-Jacques Boissy (183-PG-2000) answered with 19 points in a loss and Brancou Badio (191-G-1999) notched 15.