COTONOU(Benin) - Nigerian side Civil Defenders on Sunday secured the last spot for the Elite 8 of the FIBA ABL 2019 thanks to a 62-58 hard fought victory over a rejuvenated Elan Sportif of Benin Republic.

In the day's first game continental powerhouse Etoile Sportive de Rades make it a clean sweep as they defeated BC Terreur 68-52.

FIBA.basketball has selected five players who were outstanding for their teams

Victor Okpe (Civil Defenders)
The 1.93m (6ft4in) was exceptional on the night for the Defenders who held their own from the first quarter to the buzzer. Okpe's effort was landmark in Defenders snatching the last spot for the Elite 8 as he landed a double double of 16 points, 16 rebounds and 4 assists.

The 25-year-old made 7 of his 12 field goal attempts and converted 6 of his 11 free throws for his side deserved victory with an efficiency rating of 27.

Elhadji Amadou Mbodji (ES Rades)
The firmer Senegal international was outstanding for his team as he poured in 17 points, 9 rebounds making five of his 7 field goal attempts. Mbodji had an efficiency rating of 21.

Nicholas Simon West (ES Rades)
West made his impact felt once again for the Tunisian giant as he contributed 14 points, 9 rebounds in his side third straight win in Group B of the FIBA ABL 2019.

The 24-year-old American made 3 of his 6 field goal attempt and converted 8 of 12 shots from the charity line with an efficiency rating of 20.

Umar Garba (Civil Defenders)
The youthful lad knocked down few long range shots enroute for his side 62-58 win over Elan Sportif. He recorded 14 points and 5 rebounds with an efficiency rating of 8.

Vivien Tossou (Elan Sportif)
Though Tossou effort was not enough to save Elan Sportif from a second defeat, but the 25-year-old guard proved to be a vital addition on his team roster with 11 points and 3 rebounds.

FIBA