Nigeria's Junior D'Tigress suffered another defeat to Mali in the final of the FIBA U18 Women's AfroBasket, losing 77-68 in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, on Sunday. The loss means Nigeria finished as runners-up for the third time in the competition, while Mali secured their second three-peat with a fifth title in six editions.
Mali's Dominance Continues
Mali's victory extended their stranglehold on the age-grade championship, having previously won three consecutive titles in 2014, 2016, and 2018. After Egypt claimed the 2020 title, Mali returned to the top in 2022, 2024, and now 2026, winning five of the last six editions. The defending champions finished the tournament unbeaten in six games, cementing their status as the continent's leading force in this category.
For Nigeria, the defeat was a familiar and heartbreaking outcome. Mali also defeated the Junior D'Tigress 76-56 in the 2024 final, making it two consecutive final losses to the same opponent. Despite Nigeria's efforts, Mali's early momentum proved decisive, as they maintained their lead throughout the game.
Key Performances and Individual Awards
Favour Anari led Nigeria's scoring with 26 points, and her rebounding and scoring contributions kept the Junior D'Tigress within striking distance. However, Mali's Coumba Keita was the game's top scorer with 25 points, supported by Maimouna Traoré's 18 points. Traoré's all-around performance earned her the tournament's Most Valuable Player award.
Despite the team's loss, Anari received individual recognition for her impressive tournament, earning a spot on the All-Star Team. She was joined by Mali's Traoré and Assan Mariko, Egypt's Hania Hassabelnaby, and Cameroon's Eveline Toyounon. Keita finished as the tournament's leading scorer with an average of 20 points per game, also winning the award for best three-point shooter. Toyounon was named the best rebounder, averaging 17 rebounds per game, while Benin received the Fair Play Award.
Impact and Future Prospects
The result means Nigeria have now finished as runners-up at the U18 Women's AfroBasket for the third time, highlighting the gap between them and Mali in this age group. However, the team's performance, particularly Anari's, suggests a promising future for Nigerian women's basketball. The Junior D'Tigress had earlier booked their ticket to the World Cup, and this final experience will be valuable as they prepare for international competition.
