National basketball team head coach Cheikh Sarr has said that he is aware of the challenge facing his charges at FIBA Women’s AfroBasket 2025 after Rwanda was placed in the same group as Nigeria and Mozambique. The continental tournament is slated for July 26 to August 3 in Côte d'Ivoire. Its groups were confirmed during a draw ceremony that took place in Abidjan on Wednesday, April 23. ALSO READ: Women’s Afrobasket 2025: Rwanda placed in same group as Nigeria, Mozambique Nigeria, the defending champions of the most recent edition (2023) pose the most serious threat for Cheikh Sarr’s team, as they are currently the best team on the continent. In an interview with Times Sport, Sarr said: “We are aware of the challenge that Group D presents. Nigeria is indeed a very strong team, with a rich history of success and impressive performances at the Olympics. We respect their talent and experience, and we know we have to bring our best game to have a chance against them,” he noted. Regarding Mozambique, he referred to them as a talented team with strong players and a lot of heart. ALSO READ: Nate Ament: Rwandan-American basketball prodigy explains story behind signature sneaker “I wouldn’t necessarily consider them underdogs; every team in the tournament has earned their spot and brings their own strengths. We recognize their potential and will prepare diligently to face them, just as we will with Nigeria and any other team,” he said. He noted that Rwanda’s preparations will focus on both physical conditioning and tactical drills, and analysing the opponents’ game footage in addition to working on team chemistry. “Our goal is to represent Rwanda with pride, play with passion, and continue to grow as a team. We look forward to the challenges ahead and will do everything possible to make our country proud,” he pointed out. Rwanda finished in fourth place at the Women’s Afrobasket after losing 89-51 to Mali in the third-place game.
