AfroBasket U18 2026 Qualification Highlights Gabon Bonus Dispute and Madagascar's Dominance

In the run‑up to the 2026 AfroBasket U18 tournament in Abidjan, parents of Gabon's under‑18 basketball team gathered at the federation headquarters to protest the non‑payment of match bonuses earned during the June qualifiers in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea. They urged President Ali Bongo Ondimba to intervene, citing concerns over the players’ morale and preparation for the upcoming competition. Fédération gabonaise de basketball president Willy‑Conrad Asseko acknowledged the issue and called for recognition of all parties that supported the team.

Meanwhile, Madagascar's U18 side, nicknamed the Ankoay, continued their strong qualifying campaign by routing Namibia 111‑33 in Harare, Zimbabwe. The victory, highlighted by 21‑point performances from Harinosy A’Ranty Rasetriarivony and Tsiory Ulrick Rakotozafy, left Madagascar just one win away from securing a place in the final tournament. The team now faces host Zimbabwe in its last qualifying match, seeking to maintain its unbeaten run.