SA U23 Wheelchair Basketball on track to defend African title

This marks Mmitlwe’s first tournament as head coach, having stepped up from his assistant role following the late withdrawal of full-time head coach Siphamandla Gumbi following a car accident prior to the tournament.

“I am quite happy that we’ve made it to the final—it’s an incredible feeling. Since it’s my first time as head coach, representing the country, I’m very proud and excited, but at the same time, staying calm,” Mmitlwe said after SA’s emphatic 68-24 semi-final win over Kenya.

South Africa will now face Libya this afternoon (Wednesday, 12 February) in the championship decider, after they secured their spot in dramatic fashion, coming from behind to edge Egypt 35-33 in a thrilling North African derby on Tuesday evening.

The two finalists met earlier in the tournament, with South Africa claiming a tense 47-34 victory in the round-robin stage, and Mmitlwe is expecting another fierce battle.

“I expect Libya to come out with guns blazing, and we’re ready for them. I’m confident when I say the team is well-prepared to go all the way,” he added.

By reaching the final, Sasol AmaWheelies has kept alive their hopes of defending the title and securing a spot at the prestigious 2025 IWBF U23 Men’s World Championships in São Paulo, Brazil, this June. 

The winner between SA and Libya will represent the continent on the global stage, and Mmitlwe admits he feels the pressure.

“Pressure will always be there. I want to do well as a coach and lead the team as best as I can. This is a big moment for the boys, and I know they want to bring it home. 

"I believe that, together, we can see it through and win this tournament. With our management team backing us, we already have an edge,” he concluded.

The final tips off at 5 PM this afternoon, preceded by two matches: the battle for fifth and sixth place and a bronze medal shootout.