ALEXANDRIA/DAKAR (Egypt/Senegal) - Some of the players have barely passed their teenage years, but they have made such a big impact that their potential seems limitless.
Here, we highlight ten rising stars to watch in the second window of the World Cup African qualifiers.
Bamba Cisse - ANGOLA
DOB: April 28, 2002 Position: Guard Height: 199cm (6'6")
In Angolan basketball circles, Bamba is held in high regard due to his athleticism and enormous potential to achieve great things in his basketball career.
The Primeiro de Agosto player has previously represented his country in the 2023 FIBA AfroCan on home soil, as well as making a brief appearance in the 2023 World Cup Qualifiers. Since then, he has reinvented his game, particularly in terms of how he defends and attacks the basket ferociously.
Joel Rugette - UGANDA
DOB: October 16, 2007 Position: Point Guard Height: 191cm (6'3")
In recent times, any conversation about the future of Ugandan basketball has irremediably involved the name of the Rugette.
The 18-year-old point guard firmly established himself on the Ugandan basketball scene with his performance at the 2023 U16 AfroBasket tournament.
Although Uganda finished the tournament with a disappointing 1–4 record, Rugette's tournament-high 27 points per game spoke volumes about his talent.
So it came as no surprise when he was selected for the 2025 AfroBasket tournament. Six months on, the 1.91 m (6 ft 3 in) guard is poised to seize the opportunity and enhance Uganda's prospects in the 2027 World Cup qualifiers.
Oumar Ballo - MALI
DOB: July 13, 2002 Position: Center Height: 213cm (7'0")
Almost seven years have passed since Ballo grabbed the headlines with his dominant performances, which proved vital in helping Mali reach the 2019 FIBA U19 World Basketball Cup final.
The seven-foot center, who had a five-year US collegiate career, remains a dominant force in the paint area and is set to be one of Mali's key players in their World Cup qualifiers.
Ballo excels in all areas of the court, and Mali can only thank him for his commitment to the national team.
Assemian Moulare - COTE D'IVOIRE
DOB: January 21, 2003 Position: Point Guard Height: 187cm (6'2')
In a team that includes some veterans, Moulare brings a breath of fresh air with speedy style of play that has caused all sorts of troubles.
Ever since he debuted for the Elephants in the 2023 World Cup Qualifiers, he automatically became a hit.
He currently plays for JL Bourg in France's LNB. According to the club, Moulare is described as "possessing qualities of agility and an ability to defend all-around, it is this particular athletic profile, combined with his scoring ability, that makes him a potential for the highest level."
Mervedi Miteo - DR CONGO
DOB: July 25, 2008 Position: Center Height: 208cm (6"10')
The 16-year-old centre has provided DR Congo with valuable support in the painted area, primarily due to his physical and aggressive playing style.
He made his debut for the Leopards at the 2025 AfroBasket tournament, winning the hearts of Central Africans in the process.
Mathias M'Madi - MADAGASCAR
DOB: June 6, 2005 Position: Point Guard Height: 194 cm / 6'4"
Since making his international basketball debut at the 2022 U18 AfroBasket, M'Madi has exuded confidence. He is always ready to play, regardless of the opposition.
He has become one of the best point guards in African basketball, and Madagascar will rely on him to distribute the ball and score in their World Cup Qualifiers debut.
In his first senior AfroBasket appearance, he was one of Madagascar's standout performers, using his deft and crafty moves to create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates.
Franck Nyembo - DR CONGO
DOB: May 29, 2006 Position: Forward Height: 200 cm / 6'7"
Aged 19, Nyembo is eager for an opportunity to prove why he is considered one of his country's up-and-coming stars.
His strongest assets are his athleticism and his huge margin for improvement.
He impressed in the 2024 Road to BAL qualifiers while playing for the local team Chaux Sport, averaging 13 points and 10 rebounds over five games.
Ousmane Ndiaye (SENEGAL)
DOB: March 19, 2004 Position: Forward Height: 209 cm / 6'10"
Ousmane Ndiaye did not reach his full potential at the 2025 FIBA AfroBasket tournament. Playing on home soil could be just the boost he needs to reaffirm his ability as a shooter.
Ndiaye is versatile, able to play both inside and outside, and he brings the physicality needed for this level of competition.
Babacar Sane - SENEGAL
DOB: September 19, 2006 Position: Forward Height: 202 cm / 6'8"
Babacar Sane was left out of the 2025 AfroBasket squad, a decision that sparked heated debate. He is now set to show why he would have been a valuable addition to the Senegalese team, who finished third for the third consecutive season.
A dunking machine like no other, Sane will bring energy and aggression to a Senegalese squad filled with shooters, shot blockers, and exceptional playmakers.
Mike Yayo - COTE D'IVOIRE
DOB: April 17, 2003 Position: Power Forward Height: 202 cm / 6'8"
If Yayo's performance in the 2025 Road to BAL is anything to go by, the Ivorians have reason to celebrate.
The 22-year-old, who represented his country in 3x3 basketball, gave his all, contributing 11 points and 8 rebounds to help Jeunesse Club d'Abidjan secure their place in the 2026 BAL season.
FIBA