Prince Emny Basketball Lifestyle

Throwback

A throwback with a mentor and the MLS African Greatest All-time Goal Scorer, the Legendary Kei Kamara

Welcome back, guys!

You did us proud 👏

TEAM SIERRA LEONE BOWED TO TEAM SENEGAL FOR THE SECOND TIME IN THE JUST CONCLUDED U-16 FIBA BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT, THAT WAS HELD IN SENEGAL, ON THE 29TH DECEMBER, 2024.

The Sierra Leone Under-16 Male Basketball Team made a historic debut in the FIBA Africa Zone 2 Tournament held in Dakar, Senegal, from December 27 to 29, 2024. Despite a valiant effort, they were defeated by the host nation, Senegal, in the final, with a score of 57-31.

The team's journey began with an initial loss to Senegal, 65-44, on the opening day. Demonstrating remarkable improvement, they secured a 47-24 victory over Guinea Bissau, advancing to the semifinals. In a closely contested semifinal match, Sierra Leone triumphed over neighbouring Guinea with a 39-37 win, marking a significant achievement in the nation's international basketball endeavours.

The team's commendable performance earned them the runner-up position, with standout player Augustine Kpaka being named among the tournament's best five players.

Bravo to the boys for securing the runner-up medals, as well as adding a feather to the cap of our sweet Mama Salone.

In due time we will get there. All we need is to focus on building the capacity of our boys, focus on grassroots basketball, and we are also making a clarion call on Papa Government to pay attention to the basketball sporting discipline in Sierra Leone 🇸🇱 as we are determined and committed to represent Sierra Leone 🇸🇱 proudly 👏 and put her on the map for good.

Photo Credit: SLBA MEDIA

NBA
Sierra Leone Basketball Federation
Ministry of sports of Sierra Leone

The Under-16 boys' basketball team from Sierra Leone has concluded their preparations for the much-awaited final against Senegal in the FIBA Africa Zone 2 tournament. The match will take place today at 6:00 PM at the Stada Lat Dior Arena in Dakar, Senegal.

The players had the privilege of meeting Dr. Henrietta Diouf, a distinguished former Senegalese basketball player, coach, referee, and now a sports psychologist.

Coaches Issa Fofana and Reginald Bert Williams have voiced their confidence and determination to bring pride to the Sierra Leone basketball community. Their focus on the nation’s success has guided the team to this critical point, with the camp maintaining a calm and positive atmosphere.

To understand the level of competition, you might consider watching a recent game between Mali and Senegal in the FIBA U18 AfroBasket 2024.

Photo Credit: SLBA MEDIA

Confirmed.
From the horses mouth.

Congratulations 🎊 to the boys, and best of luck to them in advance.

Source: Sierra Leone Basketball Federation

OUR U16 BOYS SMASH GUINEA TO HISTORIC FIBA AFRICA ZONE 2 TOURNAMENT FINAL

In a decisive showpiece, the Sierra Leone Under 16 basketball team against its counterpart neighbouring Guinea at the semi-final at the ongoing FIBA Africa Zone 2 tournament, in Senegal, was a masterpiece and an extraordinary exhibition of what they have to offer at the big stage as our U16 side smashed Guinea in a highly heated game but circumvented by 39-37 points.

The win is not just a symbol of hoping for silverware but a historic jiffy and a landmark in the country's basketball history to reach that height at any international competition of all levels.

The Sierra Leone Basketball Federation's President Ali Hajizi's solemn statement after the game steamed from unity and dedication of the players, technical and everyone making this milestone a reality.

"The journey to the final is not just about winning games but about breaking barriers, inspiring the next generation, and showcasing the passion and potential of Sierra Leone basketball on a grand stage," President Ali opined

The head coach, Issa Fofana, viewed the game as "selfless and hard work" as that is the springboard to reach the final, and such energy can not be watered down anymore but belief for the crown stating "We're where we're at the final because of selfless and hard work of the lads. First, I was dreaming of the final, but now the trophy is our aim and target, " he asserted

He further called on all Sierra Leoneans to rally behind the team and pray, as this is just the start of something great for Sierra Leone Basketball.

The boys now have a second bite to show what they get against the host and defending champion Senegal at the final today, the 29th of December, 2024, at the Lat Dior Arena, at 6:00pm

Let us go Sierra Leone 🇸🇱

🔘 SLBF MEDIA

Good morning, my people. I pray for God's protection and guidance upon us are we go about our businesses 🙏 🙌 ✨️

A strong rumour has dropped in that Sierra Leone's U16 basketball team has made history by reaching the FIBA Africa Zone II tournament final with a 39-37 victory over Guinea, their first international final in over 20 years. A 47-24 semi-final win over Guinea Bissau showcased their determination, with standout contributions from Muctarr Fofana, Musa Alhaji Bangura, and Spencer's game-winning three-pointer.

This achievement marks a revival for Sierra Leonean basketball, highlighting the players' dedication and the Federation's efforts to promote the sport. Their success has inspired national pride and excitement as they prepare for the final, with hopes high for continued success.

Congratulations 🎊 to the boys! We are so proud 👏 of you all. Go and bring the trophy 🏆 home.

Photo Credit: SLBA MEDIA

Updates From the FIBA Africa Zone 2 Tournament in Dakar, Senegal.

THE SIERRA LEONE U-16 BASKETBALL TEAM HAS QUALIFIED FOR THE SEMI-FINAL OF THE FIBA AFRICA ZONE 2 TOURNAMENT IN DAKAR, SENEGAL

After their defeat to Senegal, the defending champions, the lads, and their Coach, Issa, went back to the drawing board, rectified their lapses, and came stronger than ever before to defeat Guinea Bissau 47-24 point win for the Sierra Leonean team with a massive gap of 23-point margin.

This win has qualified the team to the semi-final. It is a historic winning for the boys as this is the first time our U-16 has reached such level.
As it stands, our U16 sit behind host Senegal in second after winning one and losing one.

Sierra Leone is now playing neighbouring Guinea in the semi-final.

Best wishes to the boys.

Photo credit: SLBA MEDIA

Prince Emny Basketball Lifestyle

Latest Updates

As previously reported, Sierra Leone's under-16 team was scheduled to face Gambia and Guinea today. However, the FIBA Africa Zone 2 Tournament organizers have revised the fixture, and the team will now play against Guinea Bissau at 11:30 am this morning.

In response to this adjustment, the coach organized a warm-up session earlier today to ensure the players are prepared for the challenge ahead. The team is highly motivated and fully focused on securing a victory, as a win would guarantee their automatic qualification for the semifinals.

The Technical Team, led by Head Coach Issa Fofana, remains dedicated to achieving this goal, aiming to make Sierra Leone proud and create greater opportunities for the players in this exciting sport.

The Sierra Leone Basketball Federation will continue to provide updates as the tournament progresses.

Prince Emny Basketball Lifestyle