The Malta national basketball selections are gearing up for the end of a busy summer, with the Under-18 women’s team set to compete at the FIBA U18 Women’s EuroBasket Division C in Pristina, Kosovo, next week.
Following a triumphant gold-medal performance last year, where the Malta U18 women clinched the Division C trophy by defeating hosts Albania 56-47, the team is eager to show their skills and defend their title. Last year marked their first championship win since 2007, raising hopes for a repeat success in the 2024 edition of the tournament.
Malta will kick off their campaign in Group A against Cyprus on Tuesday, July 23 (tip-off: 2.30pm), followed by a crucial match against hosts Kosovo on Thursday, July 25 July (tip-off: 7.30pm). All fixtures will take place at the Tetori Sports Hall.
The tournament’s structure will include the first classification match and semi-finals on Saturday July 27 July, with the final matches slated for Sunday July 28.
Coach Roderick Vella has carefully selected a squad of 12 players for the tournament, who will depart for Kosovo on Sunday.
The team boasts an interesting line-up, featuring three sisters – Anna, Rebecca, and Sara Fenech Pace, adding a unique dynamic to the squad.
Assisting Vella are Caroline Schiavone and Matthew Borg, with Kevin Magro serving as the team’s fitness trainer.
Malta U18 Squad
Ylenia Ferrando, Philippa Riolo (all Starlites); Sarah Sciberras, Anna Fenech Pace, Michela Marmara, Rebecca Fenech Pace, Vanya Baldacchino, Jada Said, Gwen Carabott, Shanice Farrugia, Ella Abela, Sara Fenech Pace (all Luxol).