HARARE (Zimbabwe) - Madagascar left Harare in happy spirits after securing qualification for the U18 AfroBasket in Cote d’Ivoire (5-16 August).
The island nation, finalists in 2022 tournament on home soil, will make their second appearance in the youth competition after beating hosts Zimbabwe 84-45 on Thursday night at the Sunrise Sports Club in the final game the Zone 6 U18 AfroBasket qualifiers.
The Malagasy, who finished the tournament unbeaten (4-0) were led in scoring by Emerick Raveloarison's 12 points and six points against Zimbabwe. While Raveloarison's teammates, Havanirina Raveloson and Abdoul Hanaffi scored 10 points.
The impressive Madagascar who began their campaign with a strong performance on Saturday beating Namibia 115-31 were led by centre Thebson Raolompanatena’s 13.3 points per game and 8.7 rebounds during the qualifiers.
Coach Tojo Rasamoelina’s men continued their fine form against Zimbabwe on Monday beating the hosts 88-44 and the following day they routed Namibia 111-33.
Zimbabwe, who finished second in the regional qualifier with a 2-2 record, managed wins against Namibia, who finished winless in four games.
Zimbabwe beat their neighbouring Namibia 79-44 on Sunday and 87-36 on Wednesday.
Johnson Gide averaged 14.3 points, five rebounds and 1.3 assists for Zimbabwe. Gide had his best game in the final game loss to Madagascar, scoring 25 points and grabbing nine rebounds.
Namibia, 0-4, in their qualifiers debut had Paulus Nikanor as their go-to player for scoring and he averaged nine points. In the opening loss against Madagascar, he scored 12 points and he managed the same number of points the final game defeat against Zimbabwe.
FIBA