Côte d’Ivoire overcame a spirited challenge from Rwanda to claim a 78–70 victory in their Group A opener at AfroBasket 2025, played at Pavilhão Multiusos Welwitschia Mirabilis.
On August 13, Rwanda’s youthful team featuring Trey Twa, Prince Twa, Paul Bizimana, David Mutabazi, and Hason Ward, all making their senior national team debuts, faced a stern test against Africa’s second-ranked team.
Given the disparity in preparation, expectations were modest. Rwanda held a month-long training camp in Kigali and played just two friendlies, while Côte d’Ivoire prepared in Egypt, France, and Spain, testing themselves against top African and European opposition.
Despite this, Rwanda impressed early, battling to a 14–14 first-quarter tie and edging the second period 23–22 for a one-point halftime lead.
However, foul trouble for big man Hason Ward who picked up his third personal early in the third quarter, left Rwanda vulnerable inside, and Matt Costello dominated the paint.
The Elephants capitalized on Rwanda’s errors, winning the last two quarters 21–15 and 21–18.
Rwanda’s 26 turnovers proved costly, as Côte d’Ivoire turned them into 26 points, compared to just 13 off turnovers for the Rwandans.
Costello delivered a stellar all-around performance with 12 points, 11 rebounds, six assists, two steals, and two blocks.
Assemian Moulare led the Ivorians in scoring with 18 points, while Jean Philippe Dally added 12.
For Rwanda, Ntore Habimana matched Moulare’s 18 points, and debutant Ward contributed 13.
Next up, Rwanda face DR Congo in their second group game, while Côte d’Ivoire take on Cape Verde.
