Senegal Sports Press Unveils 2014 Awards Finalists
The National Sports Press Association of Senegal (ANPS) has announced the finalists for its prestigious annual sports awards, ahead of the official ceremony scheduled for November 26. The awards, which honor the best in Senegalese sport, will include categories such as Best Sportsman, Best Local Footballer, Senegal Golden Ball (Ballon d’Or Sénégal), Best Wrestler, and a special Excellence Award.
🏅 Best Senegalese Sportsman
Three high-performing athletes are in the running:
Gorgui Sy Dieng (Basketball – Minnesota Timberwolves): Seen as the frontrunner, thanks to his strong NBA season and growing international profile.
Isabelle Sambou (Wrestling): African champion in the 59 kg category and a consistent figure in Senegalese wrestling.
Karateka (name not specified): African champion in the -60 kg category at the Dakar championships.
⚽ Senegal Golden Ball (BOS) – Best Footballer Abroad
A tight race among top national talents:
Sadio Mané (Southampton): Considered the favorite after a standout season and CAF Ballon d’Or nomination.
Dame Ndoye (Lions teammate): Also CAF-nominated, known for his contributions on the international scene.
Demba Ba (Besiktas): The experienced forward remains a strong contender with solid performances in Turkey.
🏆 Best Local Footballer
Recognizing standout players from the domestic league:
Ibrahima Diop (Jaraaf Dakar): Top scorer in the national league with 16 goals.
Pape Sangoné Sarr (AS Pikine): Key midfielder behind AS Pikine’s league and cup double.
Adama Mbaye (AS Pikine): Second-highest scorer in the league and an influential figure in Pikine’s attack.
🤼 Best Wrestler
Senegal’s traditional wrestling gets its spotlight with three leading names:
Modou Lô
Bombardier
Ama Baldé
🎖 Excellence Award
This year’s honor goes to the Men’s National Basketball Team, celebrating their remarkable journey to the Round of 16 at the 2014 FIBA World Cup in Spain — a historic achievement for Senegalese basketball.
With the votes cast by sports journalists across Senegal, anticipation builds as the nation awaits the official verdict on November 26.
