The stage is set for an electrifying showdown as Uganda’s Silverbacks gear up to battle Nigeria this evening in a high-stakes clash at the Grand Hall Tripoli in Libya.
Tip-off is locked in for 7 PM, and the stakes couldn’t be higher with victory guaranteeing Uganda a coveted spot in the 2025 FIBA Afrobasket finals set for Angola later this year.
Fresh from their nail-biting 63-60 triumph over Cape Verde, the Silverbacks are riding a wave of confidence and determination. The dynamic duo of Robinson Opong and Ishmail Wainwright led the charge in that stunning victory.
Opong delivered a masterclass performance, racking up 22 points, two rebounds, two steals, and one assist. Wainwright was equally impactful, contributing 16 points, seven rebounds, and two steals the only Ugandan players to break into double digits on the scoreboard.
This crucial win marks Uganda’s second triumph in the ongoing Qualifiers, keeping them firmly in third place in Group E and within striking distance of qualification glory.
Head coach Mandy Juruni is brimming with optimism ahead of the pivotal encounter. Drawing from past victories over Nigeria, Juruni believes the Silverbacks have both the strategy and the spirit to rise to the challenge.
“We’ve faced Nigeria multiple times, just as we did Cape Verde. The key is our approach,” Juruni remarked confidently. “We’ll remind the team of our past successes against them. If we stay united, execute our game plan, and compete with heart, we’ll be in a strong position. Our focus is clear—win the game in front of us.”
A victory tonight wouldn’t just be another win it would cement Uganda’s place in the 2025 FIBA Afrobasket tournament, marking their third qualification for the prestigious competition. The Silverbacks stand on the brink of history, with the hopes of a nation resting on their shoulders.
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