Zambia and Zimbabwe coaches excited in build-up of U18 AfroBasket Qualifiers for Zone 6 teams

 

LUSAKA (Zambia) - Paul Mwale and Tawanda Nemutambwe have felt a sense of excitement and patriotism at leading their respective national teams, Zambia and Zimbabwe in the 2024 FIBA U18 AfroBasket qualifiers for Zone 6 countries.

The regional qualifier will take place in the Zambian capital Lusaka from Friday, June 28 to 29. 

Mwale, who will lead the Zambian U18 men's team in their first attempt to qualify for the junior tournament, says there is good energy in the team as they look to take on Zimbabwe on home soil.

"Leading the Zambia U18 team in these qualifiers is an immense honour and a privilege. This is a great opportunity to showcase our country's talent and make our nation proud," said Mwale.

"The mood in the team is electric! The boys are excited, focused, and ready to take on the challenge. We haveworked hard to build a strong team dynamic, and their energy is palpable."

Mwale's Zimbabwean counterpart, Nemutambwe, will debut as head coach of the national team - he sees the role of leading his country's U18s as crucial because this is the last step before the young men transition to the next level.

"I feel honoured in being trusted with this delicate group. I say this because this is a bridge they have to cross to get toand seniors. I also feel excited as this is my first time being head coach at this level for this particular competition," said Nemutambwe.

The Zimbabwe coach feels his young charges are ready for the task. He has also been impressed with the team's chemistry.

"I am more excited about this group because we feel they are the right players to get the job done. We have players from all over, including a player based in Ireland. The morale in the camp is encouraging. They have blended in well and are ready to represent their country. Some have never played for the country before, so they are looking forward to this challenge," said Namutambwe.

Being the home side, Mwale understands the weight of expectations on them, but he believes the work they have put in will help the team settle. The Zambian also believes his country will benefit from hosting this event.

"As the host team, there is naturally some pressure, but we have worked on managing those nerves. We have had intense training sessions, team-building activities, and motivational talks to ensure the players are confident and prepared," said Mwale.

"Hosting this tournament (AfroBasket qualifiers) is a game-changer for Zambia's basketball. It exposes our young players to international competition, builds their experience, and grows the sport's popularity in our country."

Finally, the two coaches shared their impressions of one another's teams. Namutambwe was complimentary of his opponents ahead of the two-legged fixture.

"Zambia has made a lot of progress with their junior program. Them getting a silver medal at the Region 5 Games is a sign that their junior program is moving in the right direction," said Namutambwe.

Mwale on the other hand took a more competitive tone.

"We respect our opponents, but we're not intimidated. We've studied their strengths and weaknesses and are confident in our ability to compete. Our focus is on our game plan, teamwork, and execution," concluded Mwale.

FIBA