The Ivory Coast basketball team has reached a new milestone. According to the latest FIBA Africa Power Ranking published on March 4, 2026, Ivory Coast has officially entered the continental Top 3. Thanks to a meteoric rise of four places, the national team has climbed to third place, now close behind Guinea and Mali, the new leader of the ranking.

The Miguel Hoyo effect: A historic flawless performance

This spectacular rise is no accident. It rewards the winning momentum instilled by Spanish coach Miguel Hoyo . During the first round of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, held in Senegal from February 26 to March 1, the Ivorians delivered a masterful performance.

1. Account summary: 3 matches, 3 wins.
2. Domination: Undisputed leaders of Group B with 6 points.
3. Performance: They finished ahead of Senegal (who were playing at home), DR Congo and Madagascar.

A new landscape for African basketball

The current rankings reflect a real upheaval in the hierarchy. While Mali (+5) takes the lead on the continent, Ivory Coast, through its consistent performance, confirms its ambition to reclaim its position as the dominant force in African basketball. Conversely, historically dominant nations like Angola and Senegal have lost ground, dropping two places each.

🏀 Top 10 FIBA Africa Power Rankings (March 2026)

Rank	Nation	Evolution
1	Mali	+5
2	Guinea	-1
3	Ivory Coast	+4
4	Angola	-2
5	Senegal	-2
6	Cameroon	-2
7	South Sudan	+1
8	Cape Verde	+1
9	Tunisia	+1
10	Egypt	-2

Editor's note: With this new status, the Elephants are sending a strong message to their global competitors. The road to the 2026 World Cup seems clearer than ever.