AfroBasket 2017 - The Quarter Finals
Four games taking place over the course of one exciting day, the result of which being that four teams edged closer to the title of AfroBasket 2017 Champions.
Morocco continued their undefeated streak at AfroBasket with a key victory over Egypt. Amr Abdelhalim had the best moves of the game for Egypt, but continued long-range success from Morocco, both in and outside the arc, gave them the edge they needed to see themselves through to the semi finals for the first time in more than thirty years.
An improved Cameroon kept the tempo up against Nigeria. Benoit Mbala put up a superb double-double for Cameroon of 32 points and 10 rebounds, but greater speed and vision from Nigeria, and well-orchestrated plays throughout, kept them the advantage throughout the game. Nigeria take one step closer to a title defence with this 106-91 win over Cameroon.
There was little between Tunisia and Democratic Republic of Congo, with the DRC's bulldozer offence evenly matched by Tunisia's long-range shooting and team play, but the turning point turned out to be a big third quarter for Tunisia. Evariste Shonganya was one rebound short of a double-double, while Tunisia's ever-dependable Makram Ben Rondhane notched up 22 points and 14 rebounds as Tunisia won over the DRC 80-61, much to the delight of the home crowds.
There was almost nothing between Senegal and Angola, with both teams executing the same plays to perfection. It was in the third quarter, though, when Senegal sank the dagger, with their offence going on the warpath. Despite the best efforts of Angola's top scorer Leonel Paulo (who had 17 on the night), Angola could not overcome Senegal and the African giants were dispatched uncharacteristically early - 1981 was the last time they finished outside of the top three. Senegal celebrated a famous win here, 66-57 over Angola.
In the semi finals, Morocco face hosts Tunisia and defending champions Nigeria take on emerging favourites Senegal in what looks to be a no-holds barred battle for glory.
For more on the forthcoming semi finals, and more on all the goings on in the competition, have a look at the tournament's official website.
