Junior Silverbacks secure first win at FIBA U16 Afrobasket

Monday 8th

FIBA U16 AfroBasket

Uganda 73 Guinea 53

Uganda’s Junior Silverbacks claimed their first victory at the FIBA U16 Afrobasket, defeating Guinea 73–53 in a commanding performance that keeps their quarterfinal ambitions alive.

Head coach Seger expressed pride in his team’s resilience and depth. “I’m very proud of the boys’ effort. The bench contributed 25 points,” he said.

“We improved in the second quarter. It’s about time someone in this tournament knows who we are.”

Uganda started slowly, trailing 18–11 after the first quarter. However, a stronger second quarter saw them close the gap to 29–25 by halftime. The momentum shifted decisively in the third quarter, with bench players stepping up. Jordan Kayizzi and Shyaka Evans scored key baskets, and Shane Kwizera nailed a buzzer-beating three-pointer to give Uganda the lead.

After missing their first 22 three-point attempts, the Silverbacks found their rhythm in the third, converting 3 of 6 from beyond the arc. The final quarter was explosive, with Uganda unleashing a 17–0 run that stretched the lead to 19 points and sealed the win.

Standout performances included Pierre Laurent Rwuhiriro with 13 points and 19 rebounds, Shammah Kwizera who tallied 14 assists and 10 rebounds, and Lucas Ssenyonjo who added 13 points and 6 rebounds. Uganda dominated the glass, pulling down 31 offensive rebounds and converting them into 21 second-chance points—a decisive factor in the game.

With this win, Uganda finishes third in their group. Their quarterfinal fate now hinges on other results. If Rwanda loses to Côte d’Ivoire, Uganda advances. If Rwanda wins, Uganda can still qualify—provided the winner between Morocco and Liberia does not win by more than 32 points.

Only the top two teams will earn a spot at the 2026 FIBA U17 World Cup in Turkey, making every point and play count as the tournament progresses.