FAP Edge CNSS in Thrilling 71–70 Victory as Damaris Emédie Shines Again

FAP edged CNSS 71–70 in a nail-biting thriller, led by Damaris Emédie’s 18 points and 21 rebounds. Emédie’s late-game heroics sealed back-to-back wins, keeping FAP’s WBLA 2025 Finals hopes alive after another dominant all-around performance in Cairo qualification.

Just 24 hours after a dominant double-double performance against AS Makomeno, Damaris Emédie once again rose to the occasion, delivering another masterclass to propel FAP Women to a dramatic 71–70 win over CNSS. Her all-around brilliance and late-game heroics not only secured back-to-back victories for the Cameroonian side but also kept their hopes alive for a spot in the upcoming WBLA 2025 Finals in Cairo.

Emédie was the heartbeat of the team, finishing with 18 points and an astonishing 21 rebounds, 16 of them on the defensive end. Her relentless energy, versatility, and leadership proved decisive, especially when it mattered most. With the game hanging in the balance, she drove to the basket and scored with just 22 seconds remaining, sealing a one-point victory for FAP.

The game began with FAP firing on all cylinders. Their Central African trio of Emédie, Chinelo Lucy Ibeh, and Nkem Akaraiwe combined effectively to establish an early 6–0 run. Their crisp ball movement and defensive intensity quickly stretched the lead to 8–2. CNSS, however, refused to be overwhelmed. They clawed their way back through composed play and timely scoring, narrowing the deficit to five points (21–16) by the end of the first quarter.

In the second period, FAP reasserted their dominance. Their defensive rotations tightened, and their rebounding edge,  spearheaded by Emédie,  prevented CNSS from finding second-chance opportunities. Outscoring their opponents 14–9, FAP entered halftime with a comfortable 35–25 lead.

But CNSS were far from done. After the break, the Congolese side came out rejuvenated and aggressive, driven by Djelika Tounkara's energetic play. She tallied 10 points in the third quarter, cutting through the FAP defence with ease. CNSS recorded their best stretch of the game, winning the quarter 25–22 and closing the gap to 57–50 heading into the final frame.

The fourth quarter was nothing short of electrifying. CNSS found their rhythm offensively, as Ketia Mbelu, Sarwan Berthé, and Gracia Nguz joined Tounkara in orchestrating a fierce comeback. Within minutes, the hosts seized momentum and turned the game on its head, taking a 65–62 lead with 4:04 to play. A few moments later, they pushed the advantage to seven, and the crowd erupted, sensing a famous victory in the making.

But FAP refused to fold. Veteran guard Josiane Tientcheu buried a clutch three-pointer that reignited the team’s fighting spirit. Moments later, Idubamo Beggi capitalised on a fast-break opportunity to bring FAP within two. With under a minute left, Tientcheu struck again, cutting the deficit to one and setting the stage for a nerve-wracking finish.

Then came the moment of truth. With the shot clock winding down, Emédie took matters into her own hands, driving past her defender and laying the ball in to put FAP ahead 71–70. CNSS had one final possession, but FAP’s defence stood tall, forcing a contested shot that rimmed out as the buzzer sounded.

The narrow win not only underscored FAP’s resilience but also highlighted Emédie’s growing reputation as one of the most impactful players in the tournament. Her back-to-back double-doubles have positioned FAP Women on the brink of qualification for the WBLA 2025 Finals in Cairo this December.

For CNSS, the loss was heartbreaking yet not definitive. Their qualification hopes remain alive, but they must now defeat ASB Makomeno in Tuesday’s all-Congolese clash to keep their campaign alive.
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In a game that showcased heart, grit, and championship mentality, it was Damaris Emédie’s poise under pressure that made all the difference.

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[Photography Courtesy of FIBA/WBLA Qualifiers]