A decisive week awaits the Ankoay in Botswana, with the goal of qualifying for the U23 World Cup, which will take place in Wuhan, China, from September 15 to 19, 2026.
The Ankoay U23 are preparing to take on a new continental challenge. Madagascar will participate in the FIBA 3×3 Nations League U23, organized in Gaborone from July 20 to 26. Both the men’s and women’s national teams will compete in the Africa South Conference alongside Angola, Botswana, Equatorial Guinea, as well as the U21 selections from Algeria and Egypt.
The women’s squad consists of Mianjasoa Koloina Fiderana Rakotonirina, Chamirah Rodin Raharitiana, Taratriniaina Murielle Erica Ramahatra, Elinah Rafarasoa, and Nirina Annick Karen Razafimahefa. The men’s group includes Kanto Damie Arimanana, Valentin Emamé, Rino Randimbiarivelo, Fera Rafahelito Fanomezantsoa, and Alphe Voahasy Ulrich.
This competition is a crucial step in developing young 3×3 basketball talent. Reserved for players under 23, it allows federations to prepare the next generation while offering athletes high-level international experience.
The FIBA 3×3 Nations League is known for its unique format. Over the course of a week, several “stops” are organized, with each stage resulting in a ranking and point allocation. At the end of all stops, the country with the most points wins the conference and secures a ticket to the world stage.
For this edition, the stakes are high: the winner of the Southern Africa conference will directly qualify for the U23 World Cup. Solofohery Angelot Razafiarivony, Technical Director of the Malagasy Basketball Federation (FMBB), expressed confidence ahead of the competition, stating, “The winner will qualify for the U23 World Cup. Our players are ready.”
Madagascar approaches this campaign with legitimate ambitions. 3×3 basketball has become one of the most successful disciplines in Malagasy sports in recent years. Following in the footsteps of their seniors, the U23 team is eager to prove that the next generation is ready to compete against experienced opponents like Angola and Egypt.
Captured & Published at: 2026-07-20 06:12:03 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/07/basketball-3×3-nations-league-les.html