In a stunning upset at the Women's Basketball World Cup, Mali overcame Spain 82-73, capturing its second-ever tournament victory after a previous overtime win over Senegal in 2010.
A Historic Night in the Tournament
Sika Kone was the catalyst of Mali’s surge, delivering 19 points and 10 rebounds while sinking two three-pointers that sparked a decisive 16-4 run in the third quarter.
Veteran Djeneba N’Diaye complemented the effort with 19 points of his own, helping Mali maintain the momentum that had already tilted the tournament ledger in their favor, where they now sit at 2 wins and 10 losses in World Cup history.
Spain’s Iyana Martin answered with 20 points, but the Spanish squad could not counter the relentless Mali attack that sealed the game in the fourth quarter.
The victory represents a watershed moment for African basketball, echoing Senegal’s 2010 overtime triumph and signalling a new era of competitiveness for women’s teams on the continent.