The stage is set in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, as 12 of Africa’s top national teams converge for the 2025 FIBA Women’s Afrobasket. Kicking off on Saturday, July 26th, and culminating with the final on Sunday, August 3rd, this tournament promises fierce competition, not just for continental bragging rights, but also for a coveted direct qualification spot for the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup. The teams finishing second, third, and fourth will also earn berths in the World Cup Qualifying Tournaments in March 2026, adding an extra layer of intensity to every game.
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Côte d’Ivoire is making history by hosting the Women’s Afrobasket for the first time, with all games to be played at the Palais des Sports de Treichville in Abidjan.
The Reigning Champions and Contenders
All eyes will undoubtedly be on Nigeria, the undisputed queens of African basketball. Having won the last four editions (2017, 2019, 2021, 2023), D’Tigress are chasing an unprecedented fifth consecutive title. Led by their dynamic captain and three-time AfroBasket champion, Ezinne Kalu, Nigeria enters the tournament as the heavy favorites. Kalu, a seasoned veteran who played in both the Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Olympics, will be crucial in dictating the pace and driving Nigeria’s offensive charge.
However, the path to a fifth straight title is far from guaranteed. Several strong contenders are eager to dethrone Nigeria:
Senegal: The Lionesses, runners-up in the last edition, boast a formidable squad. With a record eleven AfroBasket titles to their name, Senegal is always a threat. Keep an eye on Ndioma Kané, the reigning Women’s Basketball League Africa (WBLA) MVP, whose versatile play could be key to Senegal reclaiming the crown they last won in 2015.
Mali: With eight AfroBasket medals, including a gold in 2007, Mali consistently fields competitive teams. Their squad is expected to feature a blend of experienced players and exciting young talent, a testament to their prolific youth development system.
Angola: Two-time champions (2011, 2013), Angola is in a rebuilding phase but will be looking to make a statement under coach Paulo Macedo.
Cameroon: Runners-up in 2015, Cameroon will be aiming for their first-ever gold medal and are always a physically imposing team.
Teams to Watch and Potential Spoilers
Beyond the traditional powerhouses, several nations could spring surprises:
Rwanda: They shocked many with their fourth-place finish in 2023 and will be looking to build on that momentum. They are in a tough Group D with Nigeria and Mozambique.
Uganda: The Gazelles return for their second consecutive appearance, a first for their nation. They pulled off a significant upset against Senegal in the 2023 edition and are led by the impressive Jane Asinde, MVP of the Zone Five Qualifiers.
Mozambique: A consistent presence near the top of African women’s basketball, Mozambique received a wildcard entry. With the return of cornerstone player Leia Dongue, they could prove to be a dark horse in Group D.
Host Nation Côte d’Ivoire: While this is their first time hosting the Women’s AfroBasket, the Ivorian team will be eager to perform in front of their home crowd. The potential inclusion of dual-national center Kariata Diaby could provide a significant boost.
South Sudan: Making their Women’s AfroBasket debut, the Bright Starlets received a wildcard and will be looking to make an impact on the continental stage.
The Road Ahead
The format sees 12 teams divided into four pools of three. The top team from each group automatically qualifies for the quarterfinals. The second and third-placed teams will then play classification games for the remaining four quarterfinal spots, adding an exciting do-or-die element before the knockout phase truly begins on July 30th.
With World Cup qualification on the line and national pride at stake, the 2025 Women’s Afrobasket promises to be a thrilling showcase of African basketball talent. Get ready for a week of electrifying action in Abidjan!
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