Basketball’s World governing body FIBA has increased the number of slots at the World Cup from 24 to 32 as part of changes announced by the organization.
The increase in slot allows more countries to compete in the competition as a way of increasing the popularity of the game.
Aside that FIBA has introduced a new format where national teams are expected to play more games to qualify for the World Cup.
The 2019 World Cup will be the first to host the expanded field; China will host the 18th edition.
For Africa, the expanded format will see five teams play at the showpiece; hitherto, the continent had three places. Ghana is yet to feature at the World Cup but an increase in slots could benefit the West African country; the country is yet to qualify for an international tournament.
Despite failing to play in such competitions, Ghana has a wealth of young talents including Fort Wayne Mad Ants Forward Ben Bentil and University of Connecticut Center Amida Brimah that could end the country’s drought.
