Madagascar's M'Madi inspiring a nation ahead of U19 World Cup debut

 

ANTANANARIVO (Madagascar) - Among the names that come more and more often during the 2022 FIBA U18 African Championship is one Malagasy name: Mathias M'Madi.

With a tally of 22.2 points per game, coupled to 2.4 rebounds and 5.6 assists, he's been one of Madagascar's most influential players throughout the tournament.

On Friday Madagascar made history by reaching the FIBA U18 African Championship for the first time in their history thanks to an 84-81 triumph against reigning champions Mali in front a sellout crowd.

And M'Madi put on a show with his 19 points, 4 rebounds and 6 assists in the historical victory.

The France-based player, who plies his trade for Elan-Chalon, talks about his endeavours and his ambitions, while remaining focused on what he needs to do in the coming days.

The 1.94m (6ft 4in) guard, M'Madi wants to bring the title to Madagascar.

"It's not just about me. It's about all those people who helped us make it to where we are now and this is a way for us to thank them," he acknowledged.

When he started playing basketball in France, at the age of 4, little did he know he'd become a cornerstone in his country's dream. "I'm proud of what we have achieved and what we are going to do in the near future," he said.

Looking back at the Semi-Final Game that, historically, saw Madagascar beat Mali for the first time, M'Madi says that he didn't play at his peak. "This as not my best game. I have so many turnovers (7), and overall, we need to improve our free-throws."

Madagascar made only 19 of their 36 free-throw attempts. "This is something we need to correct if we want to make a difference."

Now that Madagascar have reached the Championship Game and qualified for the 2023 FIBA U19 Basketball World Cup in Hungary, he has eyes focused on making the most of his trip to the city of Debrecen.

"It is something big, something we wanted to achieve. I still can't get over it. We made it to the World Cup. Now, the harder part of the work begins."

After the tournament ends on Sunday, he will head back to France where he currently lives. He is a bit sad as he will have to make it without his team-mates. "We are going to get prepared separately. It's going to be a long way to Debrecen and the FIBA U19 Basketball World Cup. But we are going to make sure to show our colours there," M'Madi said.

FIBA