Cameroon’s national basketball team, ranked 69th in the world, defeated 12th-ranked Brazil 77-74 on July 4, 2024.
“We came here to make history, and that’s what we’re doing,” said Jeremiah Hill, who led the way for Cameroon with 22 points.
The closely contested match saw Cameroon open the second quarter with a impressive 16-0 run, setting the tone for the rest of the game. “We started slow, but we picked up the pace and played our game,” said Hill.
Despite Brazil’s valiant comeback attempt in the second half, Cameroon held on for the win.
“We knew they would fight back, but we stayed focused and closed out the game,” said Cameroon’s coach, Michel Pascal.
Leo Meindl scored 19 points for Brazil, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the determined Cameroonian team. “We gave it our all, but Cameroon played a great game,” said Meindl.
The victory marks a significant milestone for Cameroon, and both teams will now advance to the semifinals in the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament, where they will compete for a chance to qualify for the 2024 Olympics.
“We’re one step closer to our dream, and we won’t let up now,” said Hill.