Africa-Press – Rwanda. Canada-based Rwandan basketball prospect Dylan Lebson Kayijuka was Friday, August 1, named Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the 2025 Giants of Africa basketball tournament, after he powered Rwanda past Senegal to a 27–24 victory in the boys’ final to claim the trophy.
The finals, played at Zaria Court concluded a week-long tournament that brought together 320 participants from 20 African countries as part of the annual Giants of Africa festival.
The final was a tight contest, with Rwanda and Senegal going toe-to-toe in the opening quarter. Senegal, the 2023 title holders, managed to finish the quarter with a two-point gap ahead of the hosts led by coach Bienvenu Ngandu.
NBA star Kawhi Leonard was in attendance for the Giants of Africa All-Star game
In the second and final quarter, Kayijuka took command, scoring 10 points, while teammate Williams Sean Mwesigwa added eight. Their exploits turned the tide in favor of the hosts, beating a Senegalese side which won the previous edition.
“Shoutout to my teammates, we achieved what once seemed impossible,” said Kayijuka after receiving the MVP trophy from Toronto Raptors assistant coach Jama Mahlalela.
“We came into the tournament with the goal of winning every game, no matter the opponent. Winning this title in front of my people makes it even more special.”
In the girls’ final, Mali stunned defending champions Senegal with 20–16 win in the final. The day also featured an exciting All-Star game that combined top-performing boys and girls from different countries, adding more flair to the tournament’s closing ceremony. Two-time NBA champion Kawhi Leonard was sitting courtside alongside Giants of Africa boss Masai Ujiri for the All-Star game.
The final day was not just about basketball. Fans were treated to a high-energy halftime performance by award-winning choreographer Sherrie Silver.
Individual prizes
Girls’ Category:
Most Improved Player: Aarab Chaimaa (Morocco)
Best Defensive Player: Aminata Ndong (Senegal)
Most Valuable Player: Oummou Koumare (Mali)
Boys’ Category:
Most Improved Player: Amos Mugisha (Uganda)
Best Defensive Player: Pape Moussa Diallo (Senegal)
Most Valuable Player: Dylan Lebson Kayijuka (Rwanda)
Best Coaches:
Sofia Bey (Morocco)
Lebesa Selepe (South Africa)
Best Team of the Tournament: DR Congo (Girls’ Category)
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