As the FIBA Small Countries of Europe Championship tips off on Tuesday, all eyes are on Malta’s National Team. Under the guidance of newly appointed coach Duncan Fenech, Malta will be looking to make a significant impact in the tournament, which kicks off with a series of crucial matches.
Duncan Fenech took over the reins as Malta’s head coach in February, following the departure of American coach Alan Walls. Fenech, who also leads BOV Division One side Luxol, was Walls’ assistant last year and has since stepped up to the challenge. With his deep understanding of the team’s dynamics and strategic mindset, Fenech aims to steer Malta to victory.
Central to Malta’s strategy will be Samuel Deguara, Malta’s “cheat code” in the centre position. Deguara, currently playing in Taiwan, has been a pivotal player for the national team over the years. His towering presence and skill set make him a constant size mismatch for opponents, and he is expected to play a crucial role in Fenech’s rotation.
Kurt Cassar, seen as the heir to Deguara’s throne, is a young centre with the ability to shoot from deep. Playing in the Italian Serie B, Cassar has had an impressive club season and is eager to replicate his form in Andorra. Meanwhile, Maltese-Australian forward Joshua Tomasi made a notable debut in the GSSE 2023 with his athleticism and strength. After a season that took him from Malta to Spain and then Australia, Tomasi brings solid defence and powerful offence to the team.
Returning to the national setup after several years is Maltese-Swedish forward Michael Sjoberg, who adds height and experience to the squad. Sjoberg’s presence is expected to bolster Malta’s frontcourt.
Local-based majority
Luxol-based point guard Nathan Xuereb will play his third tournament with the national team. Xuereb impressed in previous FIBA games and is set to be a key player in the starting five, especially with the absence of American-born guard Eric Washington.
Malta’s captain, David Bugeja, brings invaluable leadership and experience to the team. His on-court vision makes him a central figure in Fenech’s strategy. Additionally, Alec Felice Pace, having led Starlites to a local quadruple, aims to carry this momentum into the national team. His energy and performance will be crucial for Malta.
A rising star in Maltese basketball, Neil Cassar, has earned a spot on the national team after a standout season on loan with Valletta Fighters. His size and athleticism are key to Malta’s transition play.
Starlites duo Kurt Xuereb and Matthew Scerri returned from long-term injuries this season and were pivotal in their team’s title win. Their energy and resilience will be assets for Malta.
Young talents Miguel Brincat and Ian Felice Pace add depth to the squad. Ian Felice Pace, the BOV Knock Out’s leading assister, and Brincat, known for his long-range shooting, will provide Malta with diverse offensive options.
Malta will face Gibraltar on Tuesday, San Marino on Wednesday, and Andorra on Thursday. Success in these games will be crucial for better seeding in the semifinals on Saturday, potentially securing a place in the final on Sunday.