Olympic Qualifying Tournament: Inside Angola's Training Camp

Olympic Qualifying Tournament: Angola Training Camp Insider

Can Angola Make a Return to the Olympics?

As the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament (OQT) in Spain draws near, the Angola squad hopes to be a beacon of hope, evoking a sense of nostalgia and pride. Led by the experienced Josep Claros, the team's roster is a testament to its past glory. Some members were crowned U18 African Champions less than a decade ago, a memory that still resonates with many of its fans back in the Southern African nation.

The preliminary squad includes at least five members of the 2016 Kigali squad. As part of a rebuilding process, Angola has entrusted the national team to a group of players poised to make a significant impact, starting with the uniquely talented Childe Dundao.

Dundao possesses exceptional vision, is a reliable scorer when needed, and is efficient at both ends of the floor. The 1.67-meter-tall (5'6") point guard has cemented his spot on Angola's roster. Remarkably, he has achieved all this while still only 26.

Additionally, Angola has called up Bruno Fernando, the Atlanta Hawks' big man, a 2.06 m (6'9")powerhouse capable of making a difference at both court ends. Alongside these two standouts, a talented group features Milton Valente, Jonatao Ndjungu, and Silvio de Sousa.

With a team that already possesses some established chemistry, Angola is on a determined path of transition. The 11-time AfroBasket winners are not just aiming to prove their mettle on the Olympic stage, but also to demonstrate to the world that they haven't lost their touch. Their journey begins on July 3, as they face the host nation, Spain, followed by a battle against Lebanon the next day in their second Group A matchup. Every game is a step closer to their ultimate goal.

Should they secure two wins, Angola could face Poland, Finland, or the Bahamas from Group B in the semi-finals. The tournament setup is such that only the winner will earn a ticket to Paris. Angola will need every ounce of skill to overcome Spain and Lebanon. However, a significant challenge looms: they are the only team entering the Spanish OQT without having played at least one friendly game. Will this disadvantage them?

We all know that Angola is chasing past glory, but there's much more at stake. They aim to end a 16-year Olympic drought. Will they be able to achieve it? Only time, hard work, and victories will tell.

Preliminary Roster: ‍

Childe Dundao, Elcane Paca, Eduardo Simao, Tedoyame Simao, Dimitri Maconda, Aginaldo Neto, German-Ali Obama, Gerson Goncalves, Selton Miguel, Eduardo Francisco, Jeronimo Luis, Milton Valente, Wilson Ambrosio, Paulo Bala, Jonatao Ndjungu, Wheza Panzo, Joao Fernandes, Bruno Fernando, Silvio Sousa, Aboubakar Gakou, Jilson Bango, Kevin Kokila, Teotonio Do, Macaxi Braz