FIBA World Cup 2027 Qualifiers: DR Congo's Leopards begin preparations for crucial Dakar window

The Democratic Republic of Congo men's national basketball team has officially started preparations for the third African qualifying window of the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup. The first training sessions began on June 4 in Kinshasa with a group of domestic league players under the supervision of national technical director and assistant coaches Pierrot Ilunga and Elise Kalenda.

This initial training camp is focused on evaluating local talent and introducing players to the tactical demands of the national team. According to assistant coach Pierrot Ilunga, the selection process remains open to any player capable of proving his value and adapting to the team's system.

The Leopards enter the upcoming qualifying window with their World Cup hopes still alive. DR Congo currently sits third in Group B with one win and two losses, trailing Côte d'Ivoire and Senegal. The Congolese squad will face Madagascar, Côte d'Ivoire, and Senegal during the decisive tournament scheduled from July 2 to July 5 in Dakar, Senegal. The top three teams will advance to the next qualifying round.

Despite ongoing logistical and financial challenges surrounding the national team, the Leopards remain focused on securing a place in the next stage of qualification. The coaching staff is expected to gradually welcome overseas-based players in the coming weeks as preparations intensify ahead of the Dakar showdown.

Current Group B Standings

• Côte d'Ivoire
• Senegal
• Democratic Republic of the Congo
• Madagascar