The 31st edition of the FIBA AfroBasket Championship tips off today in Angola, running from 12 to 24 August 2025, with 16 national teams competing for continental glory. The qualifiers saw early exits for the Central African Republic, Gabon, Kenya, and Morocco.
This marks the fourth time Angola has hosted Africa’s premier basketball tournament — and the first since 2007. Games will be held in the capital, Luanda, and the coastal city of Namibe. Luanda’s Kilamba Arena will stage matches from Groups B and D, while Namibe’s Pavilhão Welwitschia Mirabilis will host Groups A and C.
Tournament Format
The group stage runs from 12–15 August. The second- and third-placed teams from each group will advance to the Round of 16, joining the group winners in the knockout phase. Winners will progress through the quarterfinals and semifinals, culminating in the championship game.
Tunisia Targets Third Consecutive Title
Defending champions Tunisia, winners in 2017 and 2021, are aiming for a historic third straight AfroBasket crown. They face stiff competition from Côte d’Ivoire, who went undefeated in qualifying, and perennial powerhouse Senegal. South Sudan, an emerging force in African basketball, is also tipped to make a strong showing.
Nigeria returns to the tournament led by Houston Rockets guard Josh Okogie. Despite 19 previous appearances, Nigeria has lifted the trophy only once — in 2015, when they defeated Angola in the final. This year’s edition also marks the return of Libya to AfroBasket after a 16-year absence, adding further intrigue to the competition.
Group Breakdown
In Namibe, Group A features Côte d’Ivoire, Cape Verde, DR Congo, and Rwanda, while Group C includes hosts Angola, South Sudan, Guinea, and Libya.
In Luanda, Group B pits defending champions Tunisia against Nigeria, Cameroon, and Madagascar. Group D sees Senegal, Egypt, Mali, and Uganda vying for a place in the knockout stages in a mix of contrasting basketball styles from across the continent.
