Tojo Rasamoelina, coach of the U18 Ankoay and a respected figure in Malagasy basketball, will lead the national team to the qualifying tournament for the U18 Afrobasket. He discusses Madagascar’s opponents, the contribution of a new player from the United States, and his team’s ambitions.
Madagascar will face host country Zimbabwe and then Namibia. Regarding these opponents, Rasamoelina noted that while they have previously defeated Zimbabwe at the senior level, Namibia is a new challenge. He emphasized that African basketball has progressed significantly, and with only one ticket to the Dakar U18 Afrobasket available, the team cannot afford any mistakes.
The team has been bolstered by the arrival of Tesbon Matazaky Raolompanantena from the United States. The coach praised his physical impact, quick adaptation to the team’s new system, and his valuable skills in free throws and rebounding.
Rasamoelina expressed confidence in his squad, stating that his mission is to instill a winning culture in these young players, many of whom proved their potential during the CJSOI Games. He concluded by calling for the support and prayers of the Malagasy people, hoping this generation can continue the legacy established in 2022.
Captured & Published at: 2026-07-18 06:12:28 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/07/basketball-3×3-tojo-rasamoelina-les.html