Rwanda U18 defeated Gabon U18 88–83 in the 9th–12th places classification phase of the FIBA U18 AfroBasket 2026 on 13 August 2026 in Treichville, Côte d’Ivoire.
Gabon started competitively, trailing Rwanda 20–19 after the opening quarter. Rwanda then extended its advantage in the second period, outscoring Gabon 19–14 to lead 39–33 at halftime.
Rwanda produced the decisive third-quarter performance, scoring 22 points while limiting Gabon to just 9. That gave Rwanda a 61–42 advantage heading into the final period.
Gabon mounted a strong comeback in the fourth quarter, scoring 41 points, the highest single-quarter total recorded at the tournament at that point. However, Rwanda had built enough of a cushion to withstand the late surge and secured the 88–83 victory.
Standout Performances
- Rwanda U18: Defeated Gabon U18 88–83.
- Victor Nzgabonziza: 21 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists.
- Plamedie Bizimana: 19 points and 11 rebounds.
- Joshwa Muhirwa: 12 points and 14 rebounds.
- Gabon: Daryll Georges Mbiguis scored 24 points, while Junior Aboubacar Garba Nangha-Ngoualh added 20 points and 15 rebounds.
Turning Point
The third quarter proved decisive. Rwanda outscored Gabon 22–9, turning a six-point halftime lead into a 19-point advantage heading into the final quarter. Gabon’s 41-point fourth quarter narrowed the margin but was not enough to complete the comeback.
Match Statistics
- Tournament: FIBA U18 AfroBasket 2026
- Category: Men’s U18 Basketball
- Stage: 9th–12th Places Classification
- Date: 13 August 2026
- Venue: Salle Polyvalente, Treichville, Côte d’Ivoire
- Winner: Rwanda U18
- Runner-up: Gabon U18
- Final Score: 88–83
- Quarter Scores: 20–19, 19–14, 22–9, 27–41
- Winning Margin: 5 points