Senegal eyes Afrobasket 2025 glory with potential naturalized star

Senegal’s national basketball team, having comfortably qualified for Afrobasket 2025, is setting its sights on ending a 28-year title drought. Despite finishing third in the last two editions, the Lions are determined to reclaim the championship they last won in 1997.

To bolster their chances, the Senegalese Basketball Federation (FSBB) is reportedly in the process of naturalizing an American player, whose identity remains undisclosed.

FSBB President Babacar Ndiaye confirmed the move, stating that the federation is following regulations to strengthen the squad.

 “The coach has identified a player for naturalization, and the process is underway. He is American—that’s all I can say. We will use the rules to ensure we have the best team possible,” Ndiaye told local media.

The addition of a naturalized player could provide the edge Senegal needs to compete for the title when the tournament tips off in Angola from August 12 to 24, 2025.

With a focus on assembling the strongest squad, the federation is leaving no stone unturned in its quest to bring home the championship. As preparations intensify, all eyes will be on Senegal’s next steps in their pursuit of continental glory.