Morocco Makes Waves: A Fresh Africa Crown and the World Cup 2026 Bid

Morocco clinches Africa's basketball crown and books a 2026 World Cup ticket

Morocco's national basketball team added another glittering chapter to its history by defending the Africa Championship title with a 59-42 win over South Africa. The final echoed their 2017 triumph and kept the trophy on Maghreb soil.

Morocco had earlier advanced to the final by defeating Senegal 55-47 in a tournament hosted by Angola.

Assistant coach Abdelhak Haddouai credited the team's fighting spirit, discipline and commitment, saying the victory also secured a World Cup berth in Ottawa 2026.

Morocco's journey to the title also included wins over Egypt, Kenya and Senegal. On the sidelines, Haddouai praised the players' energy and teamwork, noting the scoreline as proof that Morocco's defense is not to be trifled with. Punchline 1: if defense wins games, Morocco just rented a human wall. Punchline 2: rivals, bring snacks—the breaks are longer when defending this well.