N'Diaye to headline Mali line-up

BAMAKO (2015 FIBA U19 Women's World Championship) - The prolific Djeneba N'Diaye is to propel Mali when they step out at the forthcoming FIBA U19 Women's World Championship.

The guard was the headline name on the final roster list for Chekhov and Vidnoe as the African nation look to build on their record at the global level.

With the scoring power of N'Diaye in their ranks, anything is possible for Mali and that was evidenced only last year.

She amassed a spectacular 25 points at the FIBA U17 Women's World Championship in Czech Republic to inspire a landmark and memorable 46-44 victory against European opponents in the shape of Italy.

Mariam Coulbaly was also an important factor that day with a near double-double to her name after hauling down 10 rebounds. She is also heading to Russia with the team.

N'Diaye and Coulibaly were the stars of the show at AfroBasket U18 Women last year, when Mali won the crown and the other highly influential player in Mariam Maiga will also suit up later this week.

In terms of prior experience at the FIBA U19 Women's World Championship, she is one of only two players who competed at the 2013 edition of the tournament, with Christinie Dakouo also on the list.

The pair were both on court when Mali beat arch rivals Senegal in what was their sole triumph on Lithuanian soil two years ago.

Mali will play in Group C against Belgium, Canada and France.

Mali final roster for 2015 FIBA U19 Women's World Championship: Aminate Diakite, Astan Soumare, Djeneba N’Diaye, Mariam Maiga, Kani Keita, Hawa Bagayoko, Korotoumou Konare, Kadidia Maiga, Assitan Traore, Mariam Coulibaly, Hawa Keita, Christinie Dakouo.

FIBA