Defeated by Ivory Coast in their opening match (90-80), Senegal found themselves with their backs against the wall during this Basketball World Cup qualifying window. Needing to win their last two games to maintain their qualification hopes, the Lions were able to count on the return of their captain, Oumar Brancou Badio, a true metronome and the team's technical leader.

Absent during the first match, the native of Rufisque was decisive in the resurgence of pride of Ngagne DeSagana Diop's men against Madagascar and then against DR Congo.

A decisive comeback against Madagascar

In his first game of this window against Madagascar, Brancou Badio set the tone. Despite a long journey to reach the Lions' training camp, the Lions' captain delivered a stellar performance in Senegal's resounding 99-66 victory.

In just 24 minutes on the court, he scored 21 points, including three three-pointers, while also grabbing 3 rebounds and dishing out 4 assists. Beyond the statistics, it was his impact on the game, his control of the tempo, and his ability to galvanize his teammates that truly stood out.

An outstanding performance against DR Congo

In the third game against DR Congo, the Lions' point guard confirmed his status as a key player. Scoring 20 points, grabbing 9 rebounds, and dishing out 8 assists, he came very close to a triple-double. This complete performance contributed significantly to the Lions' decisive victory (75-56).

Former FC Barcelona and Frankfurt Skyliners player Brancou Badio used his experience at the highest European level to guide his team through a crucial moment.

The Lions' technical director

Having been part of the national team since 2019, E Hadji Oumar Brancou Badio is establishing himself, year after year, as the true technical leader of the selection.

Third at Afrobasket 2025, where he finished as the tournament's top scorer and made the starting five, the former player from Saltigués de Rufisque remains an essential element.

Talent, charisma, leadership: the Lions' captain embodies the soul of this team today.

As the third World Cup qualifying window approaches, his role will once again be crucial in leading Senegal to the World Cup.