CIV – Race to Olympics begins in Africa

ANTANANARIVO (Afrobasket) - When the Afrobasket 2011 tips off on Wednesday in the Madagascar capital of Antananarivo, one man will be looking at the tournament as the beginning of a new era for basketball in his country.

For former Malagasy international Jean Michel Ramaroson, the chairman of the country’s basketball federation (Fédération Malagasy de Basketball), it will represent the highest moment for the sport in the country.

“This is a major opportunity to promote, develop and enjoy basketball in our marvelous country,” Ramaroson said to FIBA.com.

In fact, Afrobasket 2011 is the second time the islanders will host a continental tournament.

Madagascar was also the venue for the Afrobasket Women two years ago.
 
The Ivory Coast were supposed to stage Afrobasket 2011 but withdrew due to a political crisis in the country.

Madagascar took over the organization of the competition in April.

And the eyes of the world will be on the event as the winner will advance to next year’s Olympics in London.

“We are ready to stage the tournament,” Ramaroson said.

“TV coverage, statistics and delegations are accommodated, things are running as planned.”

The 16 teams are split into four groups of four.

While the side that captures gold will clinch a spot at the London Games, the teams that finish second and third will book places in the 12-team FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament where three other places will be up for grabs.

Madagascar are not the strongest contenders, Ramaroson admits, but this is not something that causes him to lose any sleep.

“We want to raise awareness among our countrymen and women how beautiful and enjoyable basketball can be,” he said.

“We are aiming to become a regular in the Africa Championship. It is a major challenge that we are looking forward to facing.

“As the basketball authority in this country, we expect to have improved results in the next five to 10 years.

“We want to become a recognized contender in Africa first, and later, internationally.”

In order to fulfill the ambition of developing the game on the island, the federation put the national team in the hands of experienced Spanish coach Angel Manzano Polo.

Madagascar are in Group A with neighbors Mozambique, Nigeria and Mali.

Ramaroson, 44, retired from playing 15 years ago but remains fully committed to basketball.

“We are a basketball country and we ought to grow,” he said.

For those who are travelling to Madagascar or following the tournament on television, on FIBATV.com or in the newspapers, Ramaroson left a message.

“We hope to have a great party of basketball and hopefully, everyone will enjoy it.

“We are making every effort to satisfy our guests.”

Julio Chitunda
FIBA