Team SA basketball celebrates four medals and a place at AfroBasket after an impressive showing at the Region 5 Youth Games in Namibia. Image:Frennie Shivambu.
(The Post News)– Team South Africa’s basketball squads closed out a strong campaign at the Region 5 Youth Games in Windhoek, bagging four medals across both the boys’ and girls’ competitions and booking their tickets to AfroBasket later this year.
The girls’ team delivered a standout comeback performance to win bronze on Saturday, defeating Malawi 72-57 at The Windhoek Showgrounds. Down by 15 points with just 10 minutes left, the team dug deep to turn the game around and secure a spot on the podium. This medal added to their earlier gold in the 3×3 format.
Team captain Tintswalo Siwele, newly appointed just two days before, praised her teammates’ fight and hinted at bigger things ahead. “We gave it everything, and I’m proud of the team. We believe we’ve qualified for AfroBasket, which would be an amazing opportunity.”
On the boys’ side, South Africa faced off against powerhouse Angola in the final. Despite a strong showing, they fell short, losing 70-50, but still came away with silver. They were also upgraded to silver in the 3×3 event after the disqualification of Angola and Zambia.
Head coach Sbusiso Williams commended the players for their talent and commitment, saying they’ll now shift focus to AfroBasket preparations in Rwanda this September.
It’s been a rewarding tournament for South African basketball, with both teams showing they belong among the continent’s best.
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