Ben Mbala and Cameroon closed the second window of the 2023 FIBA World Cup African Qualifiers with a loss, suffering a 68-74 defeat at the hands of South Sudan, Monday at Dakar Arena in Diamniadio, Senegal.
South Sudan, ranked no. 82 in the world but has its program rejigged by Luol Deng, had a strong start, leading by as much as 19 points in the first three quarters.
The Indomitable Lions though roared back in the final frame.
Down 69-53, Philippe Jordan Bayehe and Aristide Mouaha Tcheussi provided the spark for Cameroon, cutting the lead down to 72-68 with 58 seconds left.
Cameroon though could not sustain its rally while free throws from Nuni Omot and Deng Acuoth sealed South Sudan’s third win in as many games in Group B.
Anyiarbany Makoi closed out his spectacular window with 25 points on 10-of-12 shooting from the field with seven rebounds and three assists while Omot added 20 points and seven rebounds.
Bayehe paced Cameroon with 21 points.
Two-time UAAP Most Valuable Player Mbala chipped in eight points as Cameroon ended the window with a 1-2 slate.
Placing second in the group is Tunisia, who kept Rwanda winless after a 65-51 win later in the day.
The next window for the group happens from July 1-4.
