Zone 5 nations converge on Egypt for FIBA AfroBasket 2017 Qualifiers showdown

CAIRO (FIBA AfroBasket 2017) - Seven national teams from Africa Zone 5 will do battle from March 12-18 for the two available slots for the Final Round of the FIBA AfroBasket 2017 in the Republic of Congo (August 19-30). 

"We want to show the region and the world that something good can come out of South Sudan." - Maloc

Following Saturday's technical committee meeting, teams were divided into two groups.

In Group A, the so-called Group of Death, hosts Egypt will up against South Sudan, Kenya and Rwanda.

Meanwhile, Uganda, who finished runners-up in the regional qualifier three years ago in Kampala, have been drawn in Group B along with Somalia and Burundi.

Newcomers South Sudan are excited about their debut appearance at the regional tournament and a chance to make history as they eye the ultimate prize of making it to the continental tournament.

South Sudan’s Simon Mayen Malok told FIBA.com that, “We are very excited and privileged to be the first bunch to represent the young nation. Our aim is to hopefully change the scope of how South Sudan has been viewed recently by the world.”

"We want to show the region and the world that something good can come out of South Sudan. We know it is going to be hard against seasoned teams but the challenge excites us and we accept it."

“We plan to go hard and compete at the high level. We are positive that we will do our best and God will do the rest.”

Uganda come into this tournament as a respected side having assembled a solid team but will face a tough challenge against Somalia who have been impressive over the past two editions of the qualifiers as well as a decent Burundi outfit. 

Rwanda who want to make a return to the big stage know that they must tip off the tournament on a high note if they are to progress from Group A. 

The opening ceremony will take place on Sunday at 17:30 local time (GMT +2) before hosts Egypt take on South Sudan at 18:00 in the only game of the day. 

Egypt are favourites to book one of the two tickets on offer to Congo-Brazzaville based on their experience as well as playing in front of their home crowd. 

FIBA