Johannesburg – South Africa’s U23 Men’s Wheelchair Basketball team, the Sasol AmaWheelies, cemented their place as the kings of the continent with a commanding 51-38 victory over Libya in the IWBF Africa U23 Men’s Championship final at the Mandeville Indoor Sports Arena. With this triumph, South Africa not only claimed the prestigious African title but also punched their ticket to the U23 Men’s World Championship in São Paulo, Brazil, later this year.
A packed and electrified Mandeville crowd witnessed a pulsating final that saw South Africa rise to the occasion in a match that tested their resilience, tactical discipline, and championship mentality. Despite entering the contest as pre-match favourites, the Sasol AmaWheelies had to overcome a well-drilled Libyan side that had clearly studied their earlier pool-stage defeat and devised a strategy to neutralize South Africa’s attacking talisman, Ntando Nokama.
Hard-Fought First Half
From the outset, Libya’s defensive game plan was evident—they focused on shutting down Nokama, South Africa’s primary offensive weapon. Their aggressive press restricted his space, forcing the South Africans to work harder for their scoring opportunities. However, despite Libya’s efforts, South Africa edged the first period 12-8, setting the stage for a fiercely contested showdown.
As the second period unfolded, South Africa found their rhythm, stretching their lead to 22-12 midway through the quarter. But Libya refused to relent, clawing their way back into contention to close the half at 26-20, ensuring the contest remained delicately poised heading into the final two quarters.
A Defensive Masterclass in the Second Half
The third period saw both teams intensify their physicality, with full-court defensive pressure leading to heated moments on the court. The officials, however, maintained control, ensuring the game remained competitive and fair. While both teams created equal scoring opportunities, South Africa proved to be more clinical, outscoring Libya 11-7 in the quarter to widen the gap to 37-27.
With just ten minutes remaining, Libya faced an uphill battle. Sensing the moment, the Sasol AmaWheelies elevated their game to a level not yet seen in the final. The South African supporters erupted in unison, chanting “Defence!” with every Libyan possession, creating an electric atmosphere that further fueled the home side’s defensive intensity.
That energy translated onto the court, as South Africa’s defense held firm, restricting Libya to just seven points in the first five minutes of the final quarter. A late flurry of baskets from both sides saw the game open up, but by then, the damage had been done. The South Africans maintained their dominance, taking the fourth quarter 14-11 and sealing an emphatic 51-38 victory.
A Moment of Glory for South Africa
As the final buzzer sounded, emotions overflowed. Players embraced, some overcome with tears of joy, while the coaching staff and supporters erupted in celebration. The national anthem echoed proudly through the arena, marking a historic moment in the careers of these young athletes.
The victory not only secures South Africa’s place at the U23 Men’s Wheelchair Basketball World Championship in Brazil but also underscores the country’s growing stature in the sport on the global stage. With this momentum, the Sasol AmaWheelies will now shift their focus to preparing for an even bigger challenge—representing Africa at the world’s premier U23 wheelchair basketball event.
For South African wheelchair basketball, this triumph is more than just a championship—it is a statement of intent. The road to São Paulo is set, and the Sasol AmaWheelies are ready to take on the world.
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For More South African Basketball news:
South Africa Storms into IWBF Africa U23 Semi-Finals
South Africa Strengthens Title Bid at IWBF Africa U23 Men’s Championship
South Africa’s U23 Wheelchair Basketball Team Powers Past Libya to Secure Second Victory
