Team Profile: Madagascar's basketball journey persists as they aim to qualify for the 2025 FIBA AfroBasket tournament. Despite missing the 2021 event, their global success in 3x3 basketball and at the youth level ignites their ambition to strive for more. Madagascar seeks to make its mark among Africa's elite.
Last Updated on
February 18, 2024
Jonathan Oriant
Staff Writer
Madagascar's basketball trajectory is marked by resilience and ambition as they set their sights on earning a berth in the upcoming 2025 FIBA AfroBasket tournament. While they could not participate in the 2021 edition, the nation's basketball prowess has been showcased globally through remarkable achievements in 3x3 basketball and youth competitions. These successes have demonstrated Madagascar's talent and fueled their determination to reach greater heights in the sport.
Their last attempt resulted in a hugely disappointing performance during the 2021 AfroBasket qualifiers in Kigali and Monastir, where the Malagasy experienced a challenging run, ending with a 0-6 record.
Undeterred by this setback, the team returned home with a renewed determination to secure their place at the 2025 edition of FIBA's AfroBasket. Recognising the need for a different outcome this time, the Ankoay wasted no time as the national's team's technical staff initiated early preparations for an intensive pre-qualifying campaign.
However, the withdrawal of Tanzania from the qualifying rounds presented an unexpected hurdle, depriving Madagascar of precious game time. In response, the team engaged in a series of friendly matches to maintain their competitive edge and make up for the lost opportunities.
As the anticipation builds, the spotlight turns to key players Elly Randriamampionona, Livio Ratianarivo, and Rija Lahontan. The trio, along with the entire team, carries the hopes of the nation as they prepare to face tough opponents in Cairo, Egypt – the Egyptians, Ivorians, and Central Africans. However, the question looms large: What is the ceiling for the Malagasy?
Exploring the basketball scene in Madagascar reveals the country's status as a thriving hub for the sport in Zone 7, which spans the Indian Ocean islands. Having hosted FIBA Africa events like the 2011 AfroBasket and other competitions like the Road to BAL and the AfroBasket's U16 and U18 competitions, Madagascar showcases a deep-rooted passion for basketball. Evidently, after the success of hosting the 2011 event, they aspire to participate in the next one.
Currently ranked 120th in the world and 22nd in Africa, Madagascar aspires to climb the rankings ladder, understanding that success in Egypt is pivotal for securing a spot in FIBA Africa's flagship event. The nation's AfroBasket history traces back to 1972, marking their first appearance where they finished 9th. Subsequent participations in 2003 (12th place) and hosting in 2011 (13th place) showcase the nation's enduring commitment to the sport on the continental stage.
Looking back on AfroBasket 2021, Madagascar notably missed out on qualification after losing all six of their games in Monastir and Kigali. However, a sense of optimism has recently brewed with the involvement of young Malagasy players in the U19 World Cup. Their participation will inject fresh energy and revitalise hopes of making an impact at the continental showdown.
Guiding the team with strategic expertise is Coach Ndranto Rakotonanahary, who assumed the helm last year during Madagascar's hosting of the Island Games. Under his leadership, the team secured victory in the basketball tournament, further solidifying their regional standing and instilling confidence as they face the upcoming challenges.
Notable players emerge as standout talents, including star Kiady Razanamahenina from Lyonso in France's esteemed NM1 league and COSPN standout Elly Randriamampionona.
Razanamahenina, renowned for his memorable long-range shot that garnered attention during Madagascar's match against the Central African Republic, is expected to showcase his shooting prowess again. Meanwhile, Elly Randriamampionona, another highly effective long-range specialist, possesses the potential to guide the team to success.
In the upcoming qualifiers, Madagascar is slated to face formidable opponents in Egypt, Cote d'Ivoire, and the Central African Republic. This ultimately presents an opportunity for the Ankoay to seek redemption against the Central Africans, who emerged victorious in their previous encounters in 2020 (95-79) and 2021 (79-74). Simultaneously, they will face Egypt and the African runners-up Cote d'Ivoire for the first time, adding an additional layer of tension to the proceedings.
Madagascar enters the forthcoming qualifiers with a heightened sense of determination. The team understands that the path to success requires not only talent but a meticulous approach and unwavering focus. With the right strategy, preparation, and execution, Madagascar aims to leave an indelible mark on the AfroBasket stage.
[Photo Credit: FIBA]
