Men's U17 FIBA World Cup: Joaquim Boumtje Boumtje named Tournament MVP
Following the 2026 FIBA U17 World Cup held in Turkey, Joaquim Boumtje Boumtje, a player of Cameroonian descent representing Team USA, was named the tournament MVP after leading the United States to another gold medal.
The 17-year-old, a future Duke University player and 2.11m (6'11") big man, dominated the competition with his versatility and efficiency. He averaged 19.6 points, 10.9 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 2.1 blocks, and 1.7 steals, while posting impressive shooting splits of 59% from the field, 53% from three-point range, and 88% from the free-throw line.
In the final against Serbia, Boumtje Boumtje stepped up once again, recording 20 points, 15 rebounds, and 3 blocks. His performance played a major role in the United States' commanding 107–81 victory and cemented his status as the tournament's standout player.
The son of former Cameroonian international and NBA player Ruben Boumtje Boumtje, Joaquim is on a meteoric rise. Having developed at FC Barcelona before heading to Duke next season, he is now regarded as one of global basketball's top prospects, with some observers already projecting him as a potential number-one pick in the 2028 NBA Draft.