Online Reporter
Tinashe Kusema-Zimpapers Sports Hub
ZIMBABWE’S return to international basketball is finally within touching distance.
After years on the sidelines, the country’s Under-18 boys’ team is set to enter the AfroBasket Zone Six qualifiers in Botswana next month, reigniting hopes of seeing Zimbabwe back on the continental stage.
The Basketball Union of Zimbabwe has entrusted Basket Hounds coach Tawanda Nyamutambwe with the task of leading the young side into a campaign that comes with equal measures of excitement and urgency.
For Nyamutambwe, the call-up was one he could not turn down.
“I’m super excited and deeply honoured to have been given the chance to lead this team,” he said.
“I’m always excited to work and represent my country at any level.”
The qualifiers form part of the road to the FIBA Under-18 AfroBasket Championships, which will be held in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, in July.
Seven teams from across Africa’s qualifying zones will book places at the finals, joining defending champions Mali, alongside Cameroon, Senegal, hosts Côte d’Ivoire and Morocco.
Zimbabwe have been drawn in a demanding Zone Six group that includes hosts Botswana, regional giants Angola and neighbours Mozambique.
While the opportunity to compete is significant, preparations are far from ideal.
The tournament dates are yet to be confirmed, and Nyamutambwe was only recently appointed, leaving little time to identify players, assemble a squad and build a competitive team.
“Honestly speaking, the time-frame is not ideal but we will have to try and work out some miracles,” he admitted.
“Making my task even bigger is that we are in the rugby season, so some of the kids will have opposing priorities.
“However, we will do our best in making sure the boys are ready for what lies ahead.
“If all goes well, we are hoping to have our first trials next week.
