On Thursday, September 18, 2025, an official ceremony was held at the Prime Minister’s Office to celebrate the U16 national basketball teams of Côte d’Ivoire girls and boy who were crowned vice-champions and champions of the 2025 Afrobasket U16 tournament held in Kigali, Rwanda.

The athletes were received by the Minister of State, Minister of Public Service and Administrative Modernisation, Anne Désirée Ouloto, and the Deputy Minister of Sports, Adje Metch Silas. On behalf of the President of the Republic, His Excellency Alassane Ouattara, the government awarded a total amount of 200 million CFA francs to the players and technical staff in recognition of their outstanding performance.

Each player on the boys’ team, who won the championship title, received five million CFA francs. Each player on the girls’ team, who finished as runners-up, received four million CFA francs. The head coaches of both teams also received five million CFA francs each. The assistant coaches were awarded four million CFA francs, and the remaining staff members each received three million CFA francs.

In addition to the financial rewards, several honorary distinctions were granted. The national team manager, Mr Carlo Vieira, was named Commander of the Order of Sporting Merit. The President of the Ivorian Basketball Federation, Mr Moussa Diarra, was made Officer of the Order of Sporting Merit. All players and staff members were named Knights of the Order of Sporting Merit.

This official ceremony reflected the government's commitment to valuing youth and promoting excellence in Ivorian sports. Through their achievement, the Elephanteaux have made history and inspired an entire generation.