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The final placements in the 9–12 classification round were confirmed on the penultimate day of the 2025 IWBF Men’s U23 World Championship. Canada and South Africa finished their tournaments with wins, while Israel and Thailand concluded their campaigns with competitive performances and valuable international experience.
South Africa Edge Thailand Again to Secure 11th Place
In a closely contested rematch from the group stage, South Africa once again overcame Thailand, earning a 49–44 victory to place 11th overall.
Thailand entered the game with determination and energy, looking to reverse the result from earlier in the week. Led by Amorntep Kongpakhaw’s impressive 25 points and 16 rebounds, they fought back from a double-digit deficit and pulled within two points in the fourth quarter.
Despite losing talisman Ntando Nokama, who finished with 21 points and 13 rebounds, to fouls in the final period, South Africa held their nerve and managed the closing moments with composure to seal the win.
The result exchanges the 2021 World Championship final standings for both teams, as South Africa climbed ahead of Thailand to finish time to 11th and Thailand 12th.
Canada Take Ninth Place with Win Over Israel
Canada concluded their campaign with a 73–33 win over Israel, securing 9th place, one spot higher than their finish in 2021.
Canada opened the game with a decisive run, building early momentum that allowed them to maintain control. Ibrahim Odza led the team with 22 points and 7 assists, while Brandon Louie added 19 points and 7 assists in a display of team-oriented play.
Israel, who placed 7th in 2021, finish this tournament in 10th. Their tournament included moments of promise, and Ilay Yarhi continued to lead by example with 12 points and 12 rebounds in the classification final.
As the 9–12 bracket concludes, all four teams leave São Paulo having gained experience, tested their development, and laid groundwork for the next U23 cycle.
Photo Credits: X-1/IWBF
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