The male and female teams of Cote d’Ivoire and Benin Republic have qualified for the FIBA Africa Under 18 men championship in Rwanda from July 22 to 31 and women in Egypt in August.

The teams booked their places at the FIBA Zone 3 championship in Cotonou, which also served as qualifiers for the African Championship. Cote d’Ivoire emerged the champions in male category, while Benin Republic finished second. Burkina Faso finished third and failed to qualify for the finals. Nigeria did not attend.

In the female category, it was a straight fight between Cote d’Ivoire and Benin Republic, the only two teams in attendance. But Cote d’Ivoire was the dominant side as they won both games the team played. Benin Republic also booked their place in the African Championship, but they would have to step up their game if they hope to do well in Egypt.

President of FIBA Africa Zone Three, Col Sam Ahmedu (rtd) commended the teams for their performance and the host country for ensuring a hitch-free tournament.

He also called on more country’s to avail themselves of the opportunity and register their teams for youth championships, noting that youth championship are important to hone the skills of the players as well as harness their (the players) potentials.