Category: Malta Basketball

MBA president Paul Sultana and sec Ge. Joseph Muscat meet with AiMS CEO Jean Claude Micallef.

MBA lauds new AiMS initiatives after strategic meeting

The Malta Basketball Association (MBA) and the Authority for Integrity in Maltese Sport (AiMS) strengthened their professional relations with a meeting earlier this week to discuss the new initiatives issued by the regulatory body in terms of integrity, association registration and anti-doping measures.

In a meeting with AiMS’ new Chief Executive Officer Jean Clause Micallef, who was appointed as head of the authority in December until the end of 2027, MBA president Paul Sultana and General Secretary Joseph Muscat discussed the local basketball association’s methods to counter doping as well as it’s internal system for integrity. 

Added to this were talks about AiMS’ new registration process for associations which is said to be able to simplify the path for new and existing associations and federations.

Speaking after the meeting, Sultana said these discussions would be beneficial for the MBA to move forward and sounded his enthusiasm towards the MBA being one of the first to be given official registration within the Authority.

MBA president Paul Sultana with AiMS CEO Jean Claude Micallef. PHOTO | AIMS

“I’m convinced that AiMS will grow in various areas. Moving towards simplification of registrations will help the MBA and its clubs overcome the biggest obstacle they have been facing so far. With AiMS’ vision and their help, we can reach the next step,” Sultana said.

Meanwhile, Micallef emphasised the importance of meeting the MBA as soon as possible because the basketball association is one of the largest sporting associations in Malta, with a history of success for many years. 

This meeting was one of Micallef’s discussions during his opening months in charge of AiMS. He is said to be aiming to implement a structure and strategy within the Authority to address the priorities identified by the AIMS Board while launching educational campaigns to strengthen the Authority’s efforts among generations whilst safeguarding a healthy sports environment in the country.

MBA draw Women’s Knockout for 2024-25 season

The six MAPFRE MSV Life Women’s League teams discovered their path in this season’s Women’s Knockout on Wednesday as the Malta Basketball Association (MBA) made the competition’s draws at the Ta’ Qali Pavilion.

Current KO holders Betsson Depiro and Valletta Lionesses, currently the teams at both ends of the standings were handed a bye this time around as the cup competition is set to begin its quarterfinal stage on February 15. 

Caffe Moak Luxol and Hibernians open the round with a clash between two sides vying for accolades this season. League title holders Luxol had started the season with two finals – the Super Cup and the John Tabone Shield – both of which saw them fall to their respective opponents on the day. The winner of the latter trophy, Hibernians, will be hoping another successful cup run could boost their chances as they fight for safety ahead of the playoffs.

Former Depiro coach Adrian Baldacchino and his Athleta side will be relieved they have avoided the Mtarfa side but face a tough task against Starlites. While Starlites had a shaky start, they have improved drastically under coach Peter Shoults who looks to have adapted particularly well to life as a coach after several years on the court himself.

The winner of the opening quarterfinal between Luxol and Hibs will face Depiro, while Athleta or Starlites take on Valletta on February 23 with the final taking place on March 2.

Full Knockout fixture list

BYE Team nr 1 – Betsson Depiro

Bye Team nr 2 – Valletta Lionesses

QF 1  Saturday 15th February 2025 @ 15:15  Caffe Moak Luxol v Hibernians

QF 2  Saturday 15th February 2025 @ 17:15  Athleta v Starlites

SF 1 Sunday 23rd February 2025 @ 13:30  Winner Game 2 v Valletta Lionesses

SF 2 Sunday 23rd February 2025 @15:30  Winner Game 1 v Depiro

Final Sunday 2nd March 2025 @13:30  Winner SF 1 v Winner SF 2

Luxol assert playoff push with Djakovic signing

BOV Division One side Luxol Sherries Estates have made their intentions clear this season as they revamped their roster and pushed for a strong run, first making the John Tabone Shield final and eventually challenging current league leaders Hibernians as we head to the business end of the campaign. Now the Violets have further added firepower to their squad with the addition of Bosnian forward Nikola Djakovic.

“We’re excited to announce that Nikola Djakovic has joined Luxol Basketball Club for the remainder of the season!” a Luxol statement read on Tuesday. 

“Standing at 6’9” Nikola is a versatile player who played for teams in Bosnia, Greece, Montenegro, and Serbia. Nikola’s height and agility make him a formidable presence on both ends of the court. Welcome to the team, Nikola!”

Djakovic, who joins the team on a contract until the end of the season, brings with him experience having played NCJAA with the Snow College Badgers before going back to Europe to play professionally in four different countries, most previously Greece with the 24-year-old having played for Greek D side Gaet Dionas Kyparissias. 

He now joins coach Duncan Fenech and the Luxol team which has already merged its upcoming youthful squad with the likes of Malta international Nathan Xuereb, sharpshooting Vukasin Jandric and the re-emerging Stefan Cappello all of whom have had an impressive season so far. To make things all the more better, the two summer import signings they made – Darron Howard and Caleb Jones McCrary – have made them one of the teams to beat and a strong favourite for a top-two regular season finish ahead of the playoffs.

This significant investment within the Luxol side brings with it a crucial upgrade compared to previous seasons where Luxol have struggled. Last season, the team was fully invested in building up their youth arsenal as their senior side battled with one import player – Tariq Woody, who to their disadvantage turned out to be an incorrect fit, particularly off the court, eventually leading to his dismissal due to internal conflicts with the club’s hierarchy. 

Luxol are currently in second place of the BOV Division One standings on 21 points after nine wins and three defeats and Djakovic could be in line for his debut with the Pembroke-based side on Sunday as they face Starlites JSD in the weekend’s late game.

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Stelmach, Williams, Trapani earn top honours as BOV Players of the Month

December 2024 saw stellar performances across the BOV basketball leagues, with Piotr Stelmach, Kennedi Williams, and Alessio Trapani claiming the coveted Player of the Month awards for their outstanding contributions on the court.

Malta Basketball reviews the winners’ contributions across December…

Valletta’s Polish import Stelmach, who joined the Capital club over the summer from Athleta, delivered a jaw-dropping performance in Valletta’s 139–118 victory over Tigers BT in the BOV Division One, racking up an astonishing 56 points, including seven three-pointers. His December statistics were equally impressive, averaging 28.80 points per game across five games and assisting 3.4 scores while clocking an average of 38.56 minutes per game. The point guard also dominated the boards, boasting 10.75 rebounds per game this season. A former Polish Championship and Cup winner, Stelmach’s leadership and consistency are key factors in the Citizens’ campaign which sees them challenging for a playoff spot for the first time in their history.

Piotr Stelmch with BOV COO Ernest Agius. PHOTO | BOV

In the MAPFRE MSV Life Women’s League, Kennedi Williams of Athleta stood out with her incredible scoring and defensive prowess. The 5’8 shooting guard from Douglasville, Georgia, who joined the league rookies over the summer, led the league with 71 points across three games, averaging 23.67 points per game in December. Her accuracy at the free-throw line was remarkable, converting at 82% efficiency. Williams also shone defensively, leading the league with an average of 5.22 steals and 9.3 rebounds per game, alongside an impressive 4.44 assists per game, making her an all-around asset for Athleta.

Kennedi Williams with BOV COO Ernest Agius. PHOTO | BOV

The spotlight in the BOV Amateur League was on Malta junior national team guard, Alessio Trapani, whose consistency earned him the Player of the Month accolade. Over three games, Trapani scored 58 points, including 11 three-pointers, while averaging 33.51 minutes on the court per game. His contributions underline his potential as one of Malta’s most promising young players.

Alessio Trapani with BOV COO Ernest Agius. PHOTO | BOV

The three winners were presented with custom trophies by Ernest Agius, Chief Operations Officer at Bank of Valletta, during a ceremony that highlighted the bank’s long-standing commitment to Maltese sport.

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Malta Basketball Division One review: Hibs keep hold of top spot as Luxol edge past Valletta

The latest round of BOV Division One basketball delivered another weekend of close finishes, standout performances, and dominant victories. Hibernians’ hard-fought win over Starlites JSD took centre stage as the highlight game, showcasing a battle against the league leaders and the title holders on both ends of the court. Luxol Sherries Estates edged Valletta Lions in a nail-biter that went down to the final seconds, while Athleta showcased their firepower in a commanding win against Tigers BT. Earlier in the week, Luxol reinforced their dominance with a convincing victory over the Tigers.

Malta Basketball reviews last weekend’s games to bring you the highlights and standout performances.

Hibernians vs Starlites JSD

Hibernians claimed an 85-78 victory over Starlites in a game that featured a high-scoring duel. Starlites’ Trevon Reddish-Rhone was sensational, scoring 35 points, including key baskets to keep his team competitive. For Hibernians, Ivan Demcesen’s 24 points and Derek Brown’s efficient shooting from the perimeter provided the offensive edge. Hibernians dominated the paint, with Demcesen’s second-chance points and Tedrick Wolfe’s transition play contributing to their success. Despite the introduction of new player Chris Paul, Starlites were undone by turnovers at critical moments, which Hibernians capitalised on to pull ahead late in the game.

Head-to-Head Analysis

Hibernians’ inside scoring and rebounding prowess were crucial against a Starlites side that relied heavily on Reddish-Rhone’s offensive output. Hibernians also showed composure at the free-throw line in the closing stages, sealing their victory with critical shots from Wolfe and Brown. Starlites displayed admirable energy but lacked the defensive discipline to contain Hibernians’ balanced attack.

Leaders on Offence and Defence

  • Offensive Leader: Trevon Reddish (Starlites) – 35 points, showcasing versatility and scoring from all areas.
  • Defensive Leader: Ivan Demcesen (Hibernians) – Dominated the boards and provided critical second-chance opportunities.

CHECK OUT THE FULL MALTA BASKETBALL RECAP HERE…

Hibernians’ Neil Cassar (right) attempts to get past Starlites’ Ian Felice Pace. PHOTO | Chris Sant Fournier

Valletta Lions vs Luxol Sherries Estates

In a gripping encounter, Luxol edged Valletta 85-84 in the game’s final moments. Myles Carter led Valletta with a standout 32-point performance, including clutch baskets that kept his team in the fight. Luxol’s Darron Howard contributed 19 points and hit crucial free throws, while Caleb Jones-McCrary added 25 points, dominating in the paint. The game saw multiple lead changes, with both teams trading scoring runs throughout. This game saw the introduction of former Tigers BT guard Serge Hamparsumian as a new Valletta player.

Head-to-Head Analysis

Valletta’s offensive effort was spearheaded by Carter and Eric Terry, whose interior scoring posed challenges for Luxol. However, Luxol’s depth and composure under pressure proved decisive. Nenad Bukva’s perimeter shooting complemented Jones-McCrary’s inside presence, and Howard’s leadership ensured Luxol stayed calm during tense moments.

Leaders on Offence and Defence

  • Offensive Leader: Myles Carter (Valletta) – 32 points, with several key baskets late in the game.
  • Defensive Leader: Caleb Jones-McCrary (Luxol) – Controlled the paint with scoring and rebounding.

CHECK OUT THE FULL MALTA BASKETBALL RECAP HERE…

Tigers BT vs AtoZ Athleta

Athleta overpowered Tigers BT 109-65 in a game that showcased their offensive firepower. Kurt James led the charge with 34 points, including several emphatic dunks and second-chance baskets. Caleb Matthews was lethal from beyond the arc, contributing 18 points, while Maxwell Amoafo added 24 points and controlled the boards. Tigers BT relied heavily on Kendall Jordan, who scored 20 points but found little support from his teammates.

Head-to-Head Analysis

Athleta’s balanced scoring and defensive intensity overwhelmed the Tigers, who struggled to contain their opponents in transition. Athleta excelled in creating turnovers and converting them into easy points, while their superior depth allowed them to sustain pressure throughout the game. Tigers BT lacked the offensive consistency to challenge Athleta’s dominance.

Leaders on Offence and Defence

  • Offensive Leader: Kurt James (Athleta) – 34 points, with efficiency and flair.
  • Defensive Leader: Maxwell Amoafo (Athleta) – Dominated the boards and provided a strong interior presence.

CHECK OUT THE FULL MALTA BASKETBALL RECAP HERE…

Luxol vs Tigers (Thursday’s Game)

Luxol controlled their midweek clash against Tigers BT, winning decisively 109-65. Darron Howard starred with 33 points, combining deadly perimeter shooting with fast-break finishes. Caleb Jones-McCrary added 24 points, showcasing his athleticism and control inside the paint. Tigers, led by Albert Varcallo, struggled to match Luxol’s pace and efficiency.

Head-to-Head Analysis

Luxol’s superior ball movement and balanced scoring outmatched the Tigers’ efforts. Howard’s scoring runs set the tone early, and Luxol capitalised on turnovers to build a commanding lead. Tigers lacked the defensive organisation to slow down Luxol’s offence and relied too heavily on individual efforts.

Leaders on Offence and Defence

  • Offensive Leader: Darron Howard (Luxol) – 33 points, including sharp shooting from beyond the arc.
  • Defensive Leader: Caleb Jones-McCrary (Luxol) – Dominated in transition and on the boards.

CHECK OUT THE FULL MALTA BASKETBALL RECAP HERE…

Hamparsoumian Makes Valletta Switch as Tigers BT Sign Kendall Jordan, Albert Varcallo

Valletta Lions have strengthened their roster with the acquisition of Armenian-Lebanese guard Serge Hamparsoumian, who joins the team on a trade from Tigers BT. The move comes as Valletta aim to secure their first-ever playoff berth in the BOV Division One, switching summer signing Andre Attard with Hamparsoumian to add more experience to their backcourt.

Hamparsoumian, who joined the Tigers at the start of the season, made an instant impact despite playing for the league’s struggling newcomers. His performances earned him what can be considered a promotion to the stronger Valletta side, who see his arrival as a significant boost to their ambitions. Hamparsoumian’s last game for the Tigers came on Thursday in a tough 120-66 defeat to Luxol Sherries Estates. He then made a 10-minute cameo for the Citizens on Sunday in another clash with Luxol – this time, a close 85-84 defeat.

At the same time, Attard’s move to the other side provides the young player more game time after having been a fringe player at the Capital club.

Meanwhile, the Tigers wasted no time securing a replacement, bringing in American guard Kendall Jordan ahead of Hamparsoumian’s departure. Jordan made his debut in Thursday’s game against Luxol, delivering a commendable individual performance with 16 points, eight rebounds, and three assists in 31 minutes on the court. Despite the heavy defeat, his presence was a bright spot for the team.

Before signing for the Tigers, Jordan played in the Bolivian Division One, following stints in Mexico and his home country. Standing at 6’1, the former Carlow University player brings experience and versatility to a Tigers team determined to build for the future. His arrival marks the club’s fourth winter signing, following Miguel Baldacchino, Darko Mitrovic and Albert Varcallo.

Albert Varcallo has joined Tigers BT. PHOTO | Dubois Dream

Varcallo joins after having played for Moldovan side BAM Basket and participated in The Basketball Tournament (TBT) over the summer with DuBois Dream.

Starlites Bolster Squad with Chris Paul Signing

Starlites JSD have confirmed the signing of 6’7 American forward Chris Paul, who joins the Malta champions for the remainder of the 2024/25 season. Paul arrives as a replacement for Canadian player Joe Davis, who departs the team following a season-ending knee injury sustained in December.

Paul brings a wealth of experience from an impressive collegiate and professional career. A standout player at Saint Anselm College, Paul was instrumental in leading his team to the NCAA Final Four in 2019. During his senior season, he posted averages of 19.7 points, 7.6 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 1.1 steals per game, earning him a spot on the prestigious NABC All-East District First Team in 2022.

Following his graduation, Paul began his professional journey in Finland’s Division 2 with Kipina Aanekoski, where he thrived, averaging 18.1 points, 10.3 rebounds, 6.0 assists, and 1.7 steals per game. His outstanding performances earned him All-League Second Team honours.

The 2023/24 season saw Paul move to Luxembourg with Kordall Steelers, where he contributed 12.2 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game. A short stint with BBG Herford in Germany followed, before his switch to Starlites, adding depth and versatility to the team’s roster.

Paul’s arrival comes at a pivotal moment for Starlites, who sit third in the BOV Division One standings with a strong 7-1 record. In their official announcement, the club expressed enthusiasm for their new signing:

“The club would like to announce the signing of Chris Paul, who shall be forming part of our Senior Men squad for the remainder of the season. Having had stints in Finland, Luxembourg and Germany across his professional playing career, Chris will surely bring tons of expertise to our roster. We are looking forward to seeing Chris in action for Starlites Basketball Club.”

Paul is set to make his debut under coach Paul Ferrante on Sunday against league leaders Hibernians. His addition is expected to provide the team with a significant boost in their bid to retain the league title.

Valletta Lionesses sign Olesia Malashenko as Barnes dismissed

MAPFRE MSV Life Women’s League newcomers Valletta Lionesses had a new import player on the Ta’ Qali court as Ukranian forward Olesia Malashenko was confirmed to coach Harry Savaya’s roster this past week.

Malashenko joined the team during the winter break as a replacement for US import player Janae Barnes who Malta Basketball can confirm was dismissed by the capital club. 

Sources told Malta Basketball the freescoring American saw her time with the Citizens cut short due to clashes with the team’s administration and her behaviour on court with the rest of the team which is said to have irked the club’s heirarchy.

As a result of this, Valletta sought a new import during the transfer window and have now brought to Malta the 6’2 player who made her debut on Saturday against Depiro as the league campaign resumed after the holidays.

The Ukraine Women’s National Team player joins the team after numerous stints around Europe with the 33-year-old also bringing with her experience in the FIBA EuroCup and the Women’s Euroleague. 

Last season Malashenko was plying her trade at German DBBL side Rutronik Stars Keltern where together wit the team, she finished as the regular season runners up, before going on to fall only in the finals of the playoffs. 

Before that, the new Valletta player was in Mongolia’s Division 1, Jordan Division 1, the Turkish SuperLeague, the French LFB and the Belgian Top Division where she played for Royal Castors Braine in the EuroLeague. There she played 13 games with an average of 7.5 points, 2.8 rebounds and 1.1 assists per game. 

The Citizens will be hoping Malashenko, whose professional career began in 2008, can give them an added boost as they look for their first victory in all competitions since entering the league. 

Hibernians Women sign Ashiala Monee Jackson

Minutes after Hibernians confirmed Malta women’s national team coach Charles Bonnici as their new mentor, the Paola-based club named Illinois-native Ashiala Monee Jackson to their roster.

“The Hibernians Basketball Club would like to announce the new recruit from Illinois-USA, Ashiala Monee Jackson. Welcome on board Ashiala!” The club said in a statement on Thursday evening.

6’1 forward Jackson joins the team on the back of a half-season stint in Chile with CD Universitario Conception in the Chilean LNF where she averaged 30.6 minutes a game, putting up 14 points, 9.7 rebounds, 1.4 assists and 1.7 steals per game in nine showings. 

Before that, the new Hibs player plied her trade in the Kazakhstan Division One with Barsy Atyrau and Irtysh after her college career in the NCAA Division 2 at Tuskegee University.

She now joins a Hibs team which has begun their campaign looking for redemption after numerous disappointing seasons. Having started the season under coach Winnie Buhagiar, the team managed to secure the John Tabone Women’s Shield but stumbled at the beginning of the MAPFRE MSV Life Women’s League. 

Now moving onto a new path under coach Bonnici, the team which currently stands on three wins and four defeats so far this season will be hoping for a quick start after the winter break this weekend as Maltese basketball returns to the Ta’ Qali Pavilion.  

Hibernians name Bonnici as women’s coach after Buhagiar departs 

John Tabone Women’s Shield winners Hibernians announced a new coaching path on Thursday as they named Malta Women’s national team coach Charles Bonnici as their new team coach for the remainder of the season. 

This move comes as Winnie Buhaigar, who has led the team since July, departs the Paola-based club after a rollercoaster start to the season.

“The Hibernians Basketball Club would like to announce that Charlie Bonnici has been appointed as the new coach for our Hibernians Women’s Senior Team. Welcome on board!” The club said in a statement.

“In the meantime, the Hibernians Basketball Club would like to thank former coach Winnie Buhagiar for her commitment throughout the past months.”

Under Buhagiar, the Paolites made significant roster changes, with former Starlites trio Steffi de Martino, Maria Bonett, and Andie Saliba all joining the team before the signing of American forward Mikayla Brandon. This newly built squad depth reaped instant rewards, as the team looked solid at both ends of the court. Eventually, the Shield Trophy gave Hibs their first accolade after a long drought. 

In spite of this momentum, the team struggled to match the pace once the MAPFRE MSV Life Women’s League campaign started, losing their opening fixtures. Nevertheless, Hibernians eventually got back to winning ways and are now in fourth place in the standings on 10 points (3-4). 

While it is still unclear why Hibs and coach Buhagiar parted ways, this change brings to the team an experienced mentor in Bonnici, whose last stint in senior women’s basketball saw him win the league with Starlites. 

Bonnici, who was appointed Malta NT women’s coach last season, comes to the team with a FIBA Small Countries Games silver medal on his resume after a strong showing by his team in Kosovo in the summer. While it was rumoured that he could return to Starlites for this season, the Naxxar side announced former Malta guard Peter Shoults with Bonnici seemingly to remain only the NT coach. However, he now rejoins his former trio and the rest of the Hibs roster as they focus on climbing up to the top positions of the league.