The host nation of Angola triumphed at the FIBA AfroBasket 2025, securing a historic 12th continental title with a commanding victory over Mali in the final match. The victory, their first since 2013, cemented Angola's status as the most decorated nation in the history of the competition. Playing before a sold-out crowd at the Kilamba Arena on Sunday, August 24, Angola defeated Mali 70-43, completing a perfect 6-0 run through the tournament.
The Angolan side, often referred to as the "Palancas Negras," led the match from start to finish, leaving no room for a Malian comeback. The Angolan crowd was jubilant, even starting a Mexican wave in the third quarter as their team's lead grew to more than 20 points. This win brings an end to a 12-year championship drought for the team, which had been uncharacteristically eliminated before the final four in the previous two editions of the tournament.
The star of the final, and the tournament as a whole, was Angola's point guard, Childe Dundao. He led all scorers in the final with 16 points and was later named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the tournament, earning loud chants of "MVP" from the home crowd. Dundao's outstanding performance was recognized with a spot on the AfroBasket All-Tournament Team. He was joined by teammate Bruno Fernando, who brought star quality to the tournament as a former NBA player now with Real Madrid.
Mali, who were competing in their first-ever men's AfroBasket final, finished as the tournament's runner-up. Despite the disappointing result in the final, the team's journey was a success, and two of their players were recognized for their strong performances. Siriman Kanoute was Mali's leading scorer in the final with 14 points, while Aliou Diarra, who also won the tournament's leading rebounder award, was named to the All-Tournament Team alongside Mahamane Coulibaly.
In the third-place game, Senegal defeated Cameroon 98-72 to earn their third consecutive bronze medal. Senegal's Brancou Badio was another standout player of the tournament, leading the competition in both scoring and three-point shooting.
Angola's victory on home soil signaled a return to form for a team that has been a powerhouse of African basketball for decades. The flawless campaign and a dominant final performance against a spirited young Malian team will be a source of national pride and a testament to their enduring legacy.

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