Magnificent Mali make #FIBAU19 history and secure a first for Africa

BANGKOK (Thailand) – Mali are celebrating a momentous and historic landmark after they lit it up against Latvia to become the first ever African nation to make the Quarter-Finals of the FIBA U19 Women’s Basketball World Cup.

A blistering start against the previously undefeated Latvia paved the way for a famous 67-34 success in the Round of 16 as Sika Kone showed out with a spectacular double-double of 19 points and 22 rebounds.

“In today’s game we decided to play with more intensity. ” stated the forward as Mali collected their first success in the Thai capital.

“It was good, we defended better and we played together, so we won and advanced to the Quarter-Finals for the first time.

“And, we definitely think we can go even further in this tournament. We just have to stick together and keep talking to each other.”

Mali will play in the Quarter-Finals against either Australia or Colombia.

FIBA