Morocco’s basketball fraternity bids farewell to one of its stalwarts as Abdelhakim Zouita, after a remarkable 19-year career, decides to hang up his national team jersey.
The announcement came via an Instagram post, marking the end of an era for one of the country’s most revered basketball players.
Reflecting on his illustrious journey, Zouita reminisced about his numerous appearances donning the Moroccan national team uniform, particularly highlighting his four participations at the FIBA AfroBasket.
Despite missing out on the last two editions due to injury and the team’s unfortunate elimination by Libya, Zouita expressed regret at not being able to represent his country on the continental stage one last time.
Speaking candidly about his decision, Zouita dismissed speculations linking it to his recent absence from the AfroBasket Pre-Qualifiers, affirming that he had made up his mind before the previous year’s AfroCan.
It was at this tournament in Angola that Zouita achieved his crowning glory, leading Morocco to victory and clinching the title by defeating Cote d’Ivoire.
“In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful, and may peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, the Messenger of Allah, today is a difficult day for me, but it’s also a time of reflection and gratitude. Being part of Morocco’s national basketball team has been a tremendous honor, representing my family, teammates, and the people of Morocco has been a true honor.
With much sadness that I announce my retirement from the National basketball team of Morocco,While I have a deep love for the game,
This decision is mine alone, and although I know this will not bring me happiness, it is the right and honorable action to take at this time.
Reflecting on my nineteen years journey with the National Moroccon team, I am reminded of the countless individuals to whom I owe humble and sincere gratitude for their support and contribution to my professional career, I’ve always pursued success and winning national basketball games, while preparing and training with the highest standards of competition, passion and perseverance.
Today, I specifically want to thank God for making me Moroccan and for granting me the incredible privilege of enjoying a nineteen-year career with the great national basketball team of Morocco, ” Abdelhakim Zouita message.
Zouita’s tenure with the national team was not without its challenges, including injuries that sidelined him at crucial junctures.
However, he fondly recalled the sense of pride and camaraderie experienced during his early days in the national colors, emphasizing the importance of unity within the team.
Despite the setbacks and disappointments faced over the years, Zouita remained optimistic about the future of Moroccan basketball, citing the emergence of young talent as a promising sign for the sport’s growth.
He expressed confidence in the team’s ability to compete at the highest level, urging the younger generation to strive for success and bring glory to the nation.
As Zouita bids farewell to the national team, his legacy as a dedicated and accomplished athlete will continue to inspire future generations of Moroccan basketball players.
With his departure, a new chapter begins for Moroccan basketball, fueled by the passion and potential of its aspiring athletes.
