RWANDA CLAIMS THIRD PLACE AT THE FIBA U18 WOMEN'S AFROBASKET QUALIFIERS

Rwanda's U18 Women's National Basketball Team concluded the FIBA U18 Women's AfroBasket 2026 Qualifiers by securing third place after defeating Tanzania 64-60 in the third-place playoff.

The victory came after Rwanda narrowly missed out on a place in the final, following a heartbreaking 78-74 defeat to Kenya in the semi-finals. The closely contested match went down to the final seconds, with Kenya edging out Rwanda to deny them a place in the final and qualification for the FIBA U18 Women's AfroBasket 2026 tournament.

Despite the disappointment, the Rwandan players showed great resilience and determination. They entered the third-place match against Tanzania with one clear objective—to finish the tournament on a positive note and secure a podium finish for their country.

The match was highly competitive, with both teams battling hard throughout. However, Rwanda maintained the upper hand for most of the game through disciplined defense and effective offense. In the closing minutes, Tanzania attempted a comeback, but Rwanda held firm, displaying composure and teamwork to secure a 64-60 victory and claim third place.

Although Rwanda fell short of its primary goal of reaching the final and qualifying for the continental championship, the team's campaign highlighted the promising future of women's basketball in the country. The young players demonstrated talent, commitment, and the ability to compete at a high level, giving hope for even greater success in future competitions.

Their third-place finish is a testament to their fighting spirit and determination, leaving fans optimistic about the continued growth of Rwanda's U18 women's basketball program.

Written by Igiraneza Migisha Janviére