Nathan Djako named MVP, headlines 2026 U18 AfroBasket All-Star Team

ABIDJAN (Cote d’Ivoire) – Nathan Djako played a huge role in Côte d’Ivoire’s victory in the 2026 FIBA U18 AfroBasket, which took place in Abidjan.

Before being named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player, Djako scored 22 points to help Côte d’Ivoire beat Senegal 73–51 in the most important game of the 16-nation tournament.

Over the course of the six-game tournament, the 15-year-old averaged 17.5 points per game, and the Ivorians closed their campaign with a perfect 6–0 record.

Joining Djako in the All-Tournament Team were Harinosy Rasetriarivony of Madagascar, Chad’s Ngaba Yaya, Cameroon’s James Minlend, and Code Mbengue of Senegal.

Yaya helped his country achieve an eighth-place finish, averaging 17.3 points and 13.2 rebounds per game.

Rasetriarivony was sensational for Madagascar, contributing 18 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 7.2 assists per game, and the islanders finished seventh.

Cameroon claimed third place with a 5–1 record, with James Minlend emerging as his country’s go-to guy thanks to his 14.8 points and 5.5 rebounds per game.

Meanwhile, Senegal reached the championship game thanks to Code Mbengue’s impressive contribution.

Although he was limited to just two points, his average of 11.3 points and 10 rebounds proved vital for the Teranga Lions.

Madagascar, who were making their first appearance in the tournament since finishing second on home soil in 2022, won the Fair Play Award.…Read more by