In a message shared on the social network X, the head of state highlighted the commitment and determination of the Angolan team, congratulating the athletes and coaching staff, and stating that Angola has once again confirmed its tradition and importance in the sport on a continental level.
"For another convincing victory, I congratulate the young players and coaching staff of the National Basketball Team. The team and the Angolan public have risen to the challenge of winning the trophy at stake in this Afrobasket 2025," wrote João Lourenço.
The President noted that this triumph comes in a very symbolic year for the country, highlighting the 50th anniversary of National Independence and stating that "Angolans deserve to win the African Basketball Championship for the 12th time."
The Minister of Youth and Sports, Rui Falcão, stated that Angola still has "a lot to contribute" to the competition, expressing complete confidence in a victory against Cameroon.
Speaking to the press at Kilamba Arena after the match against Cape Verde, the Sports Minister encouraged the team to win for the fans: "This crowd is wonderful. You don't have to ask, but a team with this level of support has to leave everything on the field and honor what's asked of them," he said.
Angola has been continental champion 11 times, having last won the competition in 2013.
On the way to their 12th title is Cameroon, the team they will play in the semifinals of the competition next Saturday. The other match in the next stage of Afrobasket will pit Mali against Senegal.
