"Basketball player's costly mix-up: Own-net dunk leads to double-OT loss"

Australia’s Rising Basketball Stars Secure Thrilling Double-Overtime Win at U19 World Cup

Australia’s top young basketball talents, including the sibling of an NBA player, battled through a double-overtime clash to claim a 101-96 victory at the FIBA Under-19 World Cup in Switzerland. The match, however, will be remembered for an unexpected play that shifted the momentum.

Cameroonian center Amadou Seini, who dominated with 15 points and 24 rebounds, received a pass off an inbound under his own basket while his team led by six with under a minute left. Instead of advancing the ball, he jumped and scored in his own net.

The moment stunned players and officials alike. A Cameroonian teammate held his head in disbelief, while the passer pointed frantically to the other end. Referees gathered to discuss the unusual play.

“That’s two points for Australia—something I’ve never seen before in all my years covering basketball,” remarked the commentator.

The bizarre sequence followed a timeout, where the play seemed designed to free Seini near the basket after setting a screen. The mistake gave Australia a lifeline, allowing them to rally and win in double overtime.

Dash Daniels, brother of NBA guard Dyson Daniels, led the Emus with 22 points. “We struggled early, but the fight we showed was great. It’s a lesson to start stronger next time,” he said. Roman Siulepa also scored 22, while Jacob Furphy added 18. Alex Dickeson contributed 12 points, including two crucial late three-pointers—one tying the game with four seconds left in regulation.

After an opening loss to the USA, Australia now faces France in their final group match before the knockout stage begins later this week.

Seini’s 24 rebounds fell just one short of Andrew Bogut’s 2003 tournament record, though his error overshadowed the achievement. He will have a chance to bounce back when Cameroon meets the unbeaten Americans in their last group game.