Paul Mwale and Tawanda Nemutambwe are brimming with excitement and patriotism as they prepare to lead their respective national teams, Zambia and Zimbabwe, in the 2024 FIBA U18 AfroBasket qualifiers for Zone 6 countries. The regional qualifier is scheduled to take place in Lusaka, Zambia’s capital, from Friday, June 28 to 29.
Mwale, who is spearheading the Zambian U18 men’s team in their inaugural attempt to qualify for the junior tournament, feels a profound sense of honor and duty. “Leading the Zambia U18 team in these qualifiers is an immense honor and a privilege.
This is a great opportunity to showcase our country’s talent and make our nation proud,” Mwale stated. The atmosphere in the Zambian camp is electric, with the players enthusiastic and concentrated on the forthcoming challenge.
“The mood in the team is electric! The boys are excited, focused, and ready to take on the challenge. We have worked hard to build a strong team dynamic, and their energy is palpable.”
For Nemutambwe, who is debuting as the head coach of Zimbabwe’s U18 team, the role is both a significant honor and a crucial step in the players’ development. “I feel honored in being trusted with this delicate group. This is a bridge they have to cross to get to seniors.
I also feel excited as this is my first time being head coach at this level for this particular competition,” he said. Nemutambwe is confident in his team’s readiness and has been impressed with their 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.”
As the host nation, Mwale acknowledges the pressure but believes in the team’s preparation and resilience. “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,” he noted. Mwale also highlighted the broader benefits of hosting the tournament for Zambia’s basketball.
“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.”
Nemutambwe shared his respect and recognition for Zambia’s progress in basketball, particularly at the junior level. “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,” he acknowledged. This recognition underscores the competitive spirit and mutual respect between the two teams.
On the other hand, Mwale maintained a competitive stance, emphasizing Zambia’s preparation and strategic focus. “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,” he concluded.
The excitement surrounding the qualifiers extends beyond the teams and coaches, reflecting a larger sense of national pride and anticipation.
For Zambia, this is an opportunity to demonstrate their growth and capability in basketball, while for Zimbabwe, it is a chance to showcase their young talent on an international stage.
The 2024 FIBA U18 AfroBasket qualifiers for Zone 6 promise to be a thrilling competition, with both Zambia and Zimbabwe eager to make their mark. The preparations, strategies, and mutual respect between the teams set the stage for an exciting and closely contested event in Lusaka.
As Mwale and Nemutambwe lead their squads into battle, the sense of honor, responsibility, and excitement will undoubtedly drive their young athletes to perform at their best, striving for victory and national pride.
Photo: FIBA
