Silverbacks Edge Cape Verde in Thrilling 63-60 Victory at AfroBasket Qualifiers

Uganda’s Men’s National Basketball Team, the Silverbacks, secured a hard-fought 63-60 victory against Cape Verde in the ongoing FIBA Men’s AfroBasket Qualifiers on Friday. The encounter, played at Grand Hall in Libya, saw Uganda withstand a late surge from Cape Verde to start their campaign on a high note.

The Silverbacks began the game with intensity, taking an early 10-point lead at the end of the first quarter. Ishmail Wainright and Robinson Opong spearheaded Uganda’s charge, contributing 12 and seven points, respectively.

Cape Verde, however, responded strongly in the second quarter with a formidable defensive strategy, limiting Uganda to just six points before halftime. Despite this setback, the Silverbacks held onto a narrow 28-24 advantage as both teams headed into the locker rooms.

The second half saw Cape Verde increasing their intensity, narrowing the deficit to just five points. Anim Delgado’s three-pointer and Patrick Spencer’s emphatic dunk within the first 20 seconds of the third quarter set the tone for Cape Verde’s resurgence. Nevertheless, Uganda’s defense held firm, making crucial stops to maintain their lead.

Opong remained instrumental for Uganda, sinking three three-pointers in the third quarter, along with a floating jump shot and a converted free throw. This offensive push helped the Silverbacks sustain a three-point lead going into the final quarter.

In a tense fourth quarter, Mandy Juruni’s squad showcased resilience to fend off Cape Verde’s relentless pursuit. The match remained closely contested until the final whistle, with Uganda sealing the win by a slender three-point margin.

Robinson Opong (22 points) and Ishmail Wainright (16 points) led Uganda’s scoring, being the only Silverbacks players to register double-digit points. On the other hand, Betinho Gomes (17 points) and Kenneti Mendes (12 points) provided crucial contributions for Cape Verde.

With this victory, Uganda aims to build momentum as they prepare to face Nigeria on Saturday, February 22. Meanwhile, Cape Verde will seek redemption in their next fixture against Libya.

A second consecutive win for Uganda would secure their qualification for the final continental tournament in Angola, further solidifying their place among Africa’s top basketball nations.