Giants of Africa Make International Debut at Adidas x Alba Next Up Women's Tournament in Berlin

Eight young women from five African countries represented Giants of Africa on an international basketball stage in Berlin, marking the organization's first appearance in Europe. The team competed at the adidas x ALBA Next Up Women's Basketball Tournament from September 3 to 6.

The players came from Ethiopia, Gabon, Nigeria, Senegal and Tanzania, and all were alumni of the Giants of Africa Festival. The delegation included head coach Melissa Diawakana of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, assistant coach Adetokunbo Ijomah of Nigeria, coach Geraldine Robert of Gabon and other staff.

For Giants of Africa, the tournament represented a major step for its Women's Empowerment Programme. Founded by Masai Ujiri, the nonprofit uses basketball to empower young people and create opportunities across Africa. Its programmes ensure that girls make up at least half of the participants in camps, clinics and outreach events.

The eight-team tournament brought together teams from Australia, Hungary, Indonesia, Spain, Germany, Sweden and the Czech Republic. The first three days featured group-stage games, followed by cross games, an awards ceremony and a trophy presentation.

The trip extended beyond competition. The players attended matches at the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup, also taking place in Berlin, giving them the chance to watch elite women's basketball in person. For several participants, it was their first trip outside Africa. Giants of Africa also runs coaching clinics for women across the continent, offering mentorship, practical training and tools they can use in their communities.