Much needed experience on world stage
In a significant step for South African women’s wheelchair basketball, the U25 national team recently participated in the 2023 U-25 World Championship held in Bangkok, Thailand from October 3rd to October 9th. This event marked a pivotal moment for these talented athletes, providing them with a valuable opportunity to gain international experience on the grand stage of global competition.
South Africa was placed in Group B, where they faced formidable opponents such as the host nation, Thailand, as well as Japan, Germany, and Canada. Group A featured defending champions and tournament favorites, the United States, alongside Great Britain, China, Spain, and Australia.
Talented AmaWheelaGirls faced tough opposition
The South African U25 women’s wheelchair basketball team, affectionately known as the “AmaWheelaGirls,” showcased their dedication and passion with a roster of ten talented players: Aphilile Xhalisile, Palesa Moeng, Lizayo Gwadana, Samkelisiwe Mbhata, Zukiswa Gansa, Londeka Mthembu, Nolitha Kibido, Michelle Moganedi, Ongezwa Hagu, and Asive Gilifile.
Best wishes to the wheelchair basketball women's teams in their match against the host Thailand in the IWBF Women's U25 World Championships. The game starts at 15:30.
— kznsportconfederation (@kznsportconfed1) October 5, 2023
Catch the LIVE STREAM here https://t.co/eWT626zCoC
📷 @amawheelaBBall @SportArtsKZN pic.twitter.com/ayE6Q4L6LV
While the team displayed tremendous resilience and determination, they faced tough competition in the group stage and the subsequent 9th and 10th place playoff match. Unfortunately, South Africa did not secure a victory in any of their group matches, which included matches against Canada (resulting in a 24-50 loss), Germany (ending 31-46), Thailand (concluding 34-60), and Japan (finishing 24-52). The playoff game against Australia also proved challenging, with the final score favoring the Australian team, 37-57.
Recap of our busy Game Day 2 yesterday where we faced both Germany and Thailand here at the IWBF U25 Women's World Champs.#LiveTheImpossible#TrustTheProcess pic.twitter.com/sTTwzjNfQG
— wheelchairbasketball (@amawheelaBBall) October 6, 2023
Nevertheless, the South African ladies exhibited unwavering commitment and fought valiantly throughout the tournament. The experience gained at this prestigious event holds immense value for the team, as it contributes to the development of South African wheelchair basketball, raising the bar in terms of skills and standards. It is an essential step toward building a stronger South African wheelchair basketball brand and attracting the support and sponsorship needed to foster growth in the sport. Notably, major brand SASOL has already expressed its support as an official sponsor for the national women’s team at the championship.
When you have a sponsor that understands the mandate...dankie @SasolSA.#LiveTheImpossible pic.twitter.com/WcyRxFg3ob
— wheelchairbasketball (@amawheelaBBall) October 10, 2023
Proudly representing the Africa continent after qualifiers
South Africa secured their place in this competition by winning the qualifying event in December 2022, where they triumphed over DR Congo in a thrilling final playoff game. Ethiopia secured the bronze medal in the competition, further highlighting the strength of African teams on the global stage.
In the face of these challenges, South Africa’s AmaWheelaGirls have shown determination, spirit, and a commitment to the growth of wheelchair basketball in their country. Their journey continues, with the knowledge and experience gained from this international championship serving as a stepping stone to even greater accomplishments in the future.
United States defends their title
The pre-tournament favourites and reigning champions, the United States, once more asserted their dominance in the championship arena. The star-studded American team secured the coveted gold medal, besting Great Britain in a resounding final showdown with a commanding score of 72-49. Team China showcased their mettle by clinching the bronze medal, emerging victorious with a convincing 47-29 triumph.
🌟 Celebrating the U25 World Championship Podium 🏆🌍✨
— IWBF ➡ #WheelchairBasketball (@_IWBF) October 9, 2023
🥇🇺🇸 The USA claims Gold! 🇺🇸🥇
🥈🇬🇧 Great Britain shines with Silver! 🇬🇧🥈
🥉🇨🇳 China secures the Bronze! 🇨🇳🥉
Congratulations to the medallists and to all who took part!🙌🥳#wheelchairbassketball #u25wbw #2023u25wbwc pic.twitter.com/OvEFUo1t1j
For more South African sport news: Sport South Africa Home Page
Well done ladies!