The 2025 edition of FIBA’s AfroBasket began Tuesday, and two active NBA players wasted no time making an impact. New Orleans Pelicans center Yves Missi suited up for Cameroon, while Houston Rockets wing Josh Okogie took the floor for Nigeria during Wednesday’s opening round of group play.
Missi delivered 12 points, four rebounds and three assists in 24 minutes, helping Cameroon roll past Tunisia, 86–65. Okogie logged 27 minutes for Nigeria, recording five points, five assists, four rebounds and a plus-12 on/off rating as the Nigerians defeated Madagascar, 77–59.
Golden State Warriors restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga had been listed on the Democratic Republic of Congo’s preliminary roster but is not participating while his contract negotiations continue.
Former NBA Talent on the Floor—and the Bench
Several other familiar names are competing in the 16-team tournament. Bruno Fernando (Angola), Edy Tavares (Cape Verde), Matt Costello (Côte d’Ivoire), Christian Eyenga (Democratic Republic of Congo), Mamadi Diakite (Guinea), Ibou Badji (Senegal), Karim Mané (Senegal) and Wenyen Gabriel (South Sudan) headline the list of former NBA players in uniform.
Tavares opened group play with 14 points and 19 rebounds in a Cape Verde victory, while Costello posted 12 points, 11 rebounds and six assists to guide Côte d’Ivoire to a win.
The sidelines also feature ex-NBA figures. Luol Deng is coaching South Sudan, DeSagana Diop leads Senegal and Sam Vincent directs Libya.
Tournament Format and Key Dates
AfroBasket’s field is split into four groups of four. Each team plays three preliminary games; group winners advance directly to the quarterfinals. Second- and third-place finishers enter play-in contests for the remaining quarterfinal spots.
Group play runs through Sunday, Aug. 17. Play-in games are scheduled for Monday and Tuesday, Aug. 18–19, followed by quarterfinals on Aug. 20–21, semifinals on Aug. 23 and the championship and third-place games on Aug. 24.
Source: Hoops Rumors
