Mokongo sparks Central African Republic in opener of FIBA AfroBasket 2017 additional Qualifiers

BAMAKO (FIBA AfroBasket 2017) - Michael Mokongo-led Central African Republic (CAF) outscored Zimbabwe 79-55 in Friday's FIBA AfroBasket 2017 additional qualifier in Bamako.

Although Zimbabwe enjoyed a 10-point lead early in the contest, CAF kept their best for last to secure an encouraging 24-point victory. 

Makongo, a two-time FIBA AfroBasket participant, led the way with game-highs 17 points and seven assists while Everist Pasipamire sparked with Zimbabwe with 11 points and six rebounds. 

The three-team qualifier resume on Saturday with Zimbabwe taking on Chad, while CAF return to action on Sunday.

The winner of this qualifier will complete the 16-team FIBA AfroBasket line-up.

So far, teams qualified for the FIBA AfroBasket 2017 include the continental champions Nigeria, Angola, Morocco, Tunisia, Senegal, Mali, Cote d’Ivoire, Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Egypt, Uganda, Mozambique and South Africa.

Both Guinea and Rwanda have been awarded wild cards to compete in the FIBA African basketball showpiece.

FIBA