The Tunisian men's national basketball team has become a dominant force in African basketball, showcasing resilience and skill. With multiple championship victories and a historic World Cup qualification, the team strives for excellence and sets its sights on future triumphs.
Last Updated on
February 22, 2025
The Tunisian men's national basketball team has firmly established itself as a dominant force on the African stage, carving out an impressive legacy over the decades. Among its most remarkable achievements, Tunisia clinched the African Championship title in 2011 in Madagascar, a historic victory signalling a new era.
A decade later, the team reaffirmed its prowess by securing another championship win in 2021 in Rwanda. Further cementing its place among Africa's elite, Tunisia had previously earned a bronze medal in 2009 in Libya.
The Carthage Eagles made history on the world stage by qualifying for their first-ever FIBA World Cup in 2019 in China. This milestone was a breakthrough moment for Tunisian basketball, demonstrating the team's rising influence. Yet, Tunisia's ambitions extend far beyond this achievement. Determined to build on its success, the squad remains focused on defending its African title and making further strides in global competitions.
In November 2024, under the leadership of head coach Mehdi Mary, the national team participated in a high-profile friendly tournament in Moscow, facing formidable opponents such as Russia and Libya. This event was crucial in strengthening team chemistry and assessing individual performances under intense competition.
Tunisia’s preparations have been relentless. In February 2024, the team held an intensive training camp in Aïn Draham from February 9 to 15, sharpening its skills ahead of the first window of the Afrobasket 2025 qualifiers. The rigorous training continued with an international tournament in Monastir, where Tunisia battled against strong teams like Uganda and Cape Verde. In August 2024, the squad further tested its mettle in two friendly matches against Senegal in Dakar on August 12 and 14, refining its strategies and reinforcing teamwork.
The national team reinforced its technical staff by welcoming French coach Vincent Hugo in February 2025 to enhance player performance. As a specialist in physical preparation, Hugo brings valuable expertise to maximize the players’ athletic potential and ensure they remain at peak form.
In addition to its continental ambitions, Tunisia is set to host the Arab Nations Championship from July 14 to 22, 2025. This prestigious tournament provides an excellent opportunity for the team to measure itself against top Arab teams ahead of Afrobasket, scheduled for August 2025 in Angola. These preparatory steps underscore the Tunisian Basketball Federation’s unwavering commitment to equipping the national team with the best resources to succeed and retain its African crown.
At the team's heart lies a core group of talented players who blend youth with experience. Omar Obada, Firas Lahyani, Bechir Ben Yahia, Mokhtar Ghayaza, and Oussama Marnaoui bring energy and intensity to every game. Meanwhile, veteran Redouane Slimane remains a stabilizing force, and Makrem Ben Romdhane continues to provide leadership and experience, playing a pivotal role in shaping the team's success.
Since December 2023, French head coach Mehdi Mary, a former Limoges CSP coach, has guided the national team. Under his direction, Tunisia employs a tactical approach centered around a tenacious defense and rapid offensive transitions. This strategy leverages the squad's speed and agility, enabling them to disrupt opponents and control the game's tempo. Additionally, the team prioritizes the development of emerging talent, integrating promising young players into the senior ranks to ensure long-term success.
The Tunisian national team's ambitions remain sky-high for the upcoming competitions. Coach Mehdi Mary recently emphasized: "Our mission is to proudly represent Tunisia and compete at the highest level in every international challenge." This declaration embodies the collective determination of the coaching staff and players to keep Tunisia at the forefront of African basketball and beyond.
[Photography Courtesy of FIBA]
