KIBAHA, Tanzania – The Eastern Division Group D preliminaries begin in Kibaha, Tanzania, with five teams competing from October 16-20.
The top two teams from each group qualify for the Elite 16, but what are the players saying as Group D approaches?
“We have more teams to face this time, but we are ready. We have reshuffled the team in preparation for this competition and we hope to make a positive start in the race for qualification. We will take every match seriously “, said Timmy Adam, captain of the Beau Vallon Heat.
For his part, Taylor Ongwaethe NCT captain, echoed his Seychellois counterpart regarding his team’s readiness for their debut, adding that they would take things as they come, looking to remain undefeated in order to qualify for Johannesburg.
At the same time, JKT was drawn against Burundi champions Urunani in the second match of the first day. The captain of the latter, Landry I’ll meet youbelieves his team will go all the way, given the recruitment they have made.
Landry Ndikumana – Urunani
“We’ve been there before and we know what’s expected of us. The competition is tough, but we’re confident we can qualify not only for the Elite 16, but also for the BAL. We’ve added a few talents to the team to help us in our quest and they complement the others well,” said Ndikumana
The host team will be led by Baraka Sadikithe star of Tanzanian team Pazi, who qualified for the Elite 16 in 2023. He is one of the team’s most experienced players and believes she can make a good impression despite the fact that It relies on players based in Tanzania.
Baraa Sadiki participated in the Road to BAL 2024 under the colors of Pazi
“We need to bring energy and a fighting spirit while relying on our fans to succeed. Some players are making their debut in continental competition, so those with experience at this level will be called upon to step up and to help others integrate and work well,” explains Sadiki.
For its part, GNBC, champion of Madagascar under the leadership of Lova Raharidera, intends to follow in the footsteps of its compatriots from COSPN, who competed last year in the Elite 16 of the Eastern Division.
“We are well prepared and ready to go. We have just finished our local championship and we will continue this momentum in these qualifiers,” said the tactician.
All matches are available on the FIBA Youtube channel.
The competition begins on Wednesday, October 16 with a clash between debutant Nairobi City Thunder and twice-participant Beau Vallon Heat from 4 p.m. (EAT), a match that both captains believe will give the tone for the rest of the competition.
FIBA
