Category: Men’s NT

David Bugeja retires from national team

Malta captain David Bugeja has decided to finish his national team career, confirming this with a statement on his socials on Friday.

“Last month’s small nations tournament in Andorra marked my final bow as a basketball player representing Malta,” Bugeja wrote. 

“Although my farewell wasn’t quite as I imagined, with us finishing second for the third consecutive tournament, it’s always been an honour to wear the Maltese colours alongside my teammates.”

Bugeja was part of coach Duncan Fenech’s roster for this summer’s FIBA European Small Countries Championships, in which Malta fell to hosts Andorra with a full-time score of 84-79 in the final. 

The former Mellieha Libertas guard averaged 13.2 points per game for Malta as a starter in all five games of the team’s campaign.

The 32-year-old now ends a national team stint which includes gold-medal winning stories. Bugeja said that despite remaining on home soil for the entirety of his club career, this did not stop him from playing at such a high level.

“Since I was 15, I’ve poured my heart and soul into training to compete at the highest level,” he said. 

“Even though I’ve always played for clubs in Malta and didn’t go abroad to play professionally, I always felt on par with my teammates who play professionally abroad, earning every minute and proving it on the court. 

“I am incredibly proud to have been part of the men’s Under-18 team and men’s senior team that won the first-ever gold medal, contributing to making Maltese basketball history!”

Depiro confirm Bugeja signing

This announcement comes as part of another change in Bugeja’s career with Depiro officially presenting the signing of the guard ahead of the new season on Friday, confirming Malta Basketball’s previous report earlier this month.

“We’re thrilled to announce the latest addition to our Senior Men’s Team: David Bugeja,” a club statement read.

“David started his Basketball Career with Depiro Nursery. He plays as a Shooting Guard and has represented Malta for the past 16 years, whilst also being trusted with the captaincy of the country’s national team for a number of years. Welcome back home, David!”

Meanwhile, commenting on the move, Bugeja said the move will “complete my full circle as a player”.

“I’m excited to return to my childhood team, Depiro and complete my full circle as a player,” he said. 

“(I’m) super eager to wear the blue and gold kits for the next couple of seasons, once again giving my all to contribute to the club. I want to thank my family and close friends for their unwavering support, allowing me to train, represent Malta, and sometimes skip family dinners for basketball! 

“I’ll always be cheering on my teammates from the sidelines, proudly wearing the white and red shirt.

“Looking forward to giving my all next season and coaching the next generation of ballers.”

Malta’s FIBA European Small Countries Championship 2024: A Mixed Bag of Triumphs and Lessons

The FIBA European Small Countries Championship 2024 in Andorra marked a significant milestone for the Malta national basketball team under the new guidance of coach Duncan Fenech. Appointed in February, Fenech brought his experience from Luxol to the national stage, to lead a roster of players mostly coming from the local Division One who performed in a way that exceeded expectations by the end of the tournament.

Malta’s roster was nevertheless bolstered by three overseas players: veteran centre Samuel Deguara, Michael Sjoberg, and Joshua Tomasi.

Deguara, arriving late due to commitments in Taiwan, missed the opening game against Gibraltar. His absence was felt as Malta fell to an 89-81 defeat. Nevertheless, Deguara’s impact was immediate and profound once he stepped on the court. In the subsequent game against San Marino, he dominated, leading Malta to a resounding 92-52 victory. His performance not only highlighted his critical role but also propelled him to the top scorer of the tournament, earning him the MVP award by Sunday’s final day.

In a statement after the tournament, coach Fenech said late arrivals hindered preparation.

“We were unable to prepare for the tournament with a complete squad mostly due to the fact that Joshua (Tomasi) and Sam (Deguara) could only join us just before the start due to club commitments. However, we picked up and improved to build momentum for the semi-final,” he said.

“In many ways, this tournament presented a different challenge as we relied mostly on homegrown players to lead the team throughout this journey. Our players managed to gain confidence and performed well to make it to the final.”

Michael Sjoberg’s return to the national team after a prolonged absence added another layer of strength. The Switzerland-based Maltese power forward made a notable impact with 19 points off the bench in the opening game against Gibraltar. His presence provided much-needed depth and versatility to Malta’s lineup.

David Bugeja, a key player for Mellieha Libertas last season, stood out as one of the main orchestrators on the court. Averaging 13.2 points, 4.6 assists, and 4.6 rebounds per game, Bugeja’s consistent performance and leadership were instrumental in Malta’s journey to the final. His drive to compensate for missing out on the Division One title with Mellieha Libertas was evident as he started in all five games.

Youngster Neil Cassar, who spent last season on loan at Valletta Fighters, was given an opportunity against San Marino and made the most of his limited minutes, showcasing confidence with a dunk among his contributions.

The Malta National Team photo.
The Malta squad at this year’s FIBA Small European Countries Championships. Photo: FIBA

Meanwhile, Luxol’s Nathan Xuereb and Starlites’ Ian Felice Pace took on the starting guards’ role. Despite previously losing his spot to Eric Washington at the 2023 Games of the Small States of Europe (GSSE), Xuereb averaged a solid nine points per game, proving his reliability in crucial moments. Felice Pace, while not as prominent on offence, was a crucial part of Malta’s defence. The Malta youngster showed confidence in his play, repaying the faith by his coach.

Malta Expectations

Malta’s community may have had high expectations due to the generally favourable draw. However, the absence of usual key players like Aaron Falzon, Tevin Falzon, and Nelson Kahler, who were unavailable for the call-up to this tournament due to other personal commitments, was a point of concern. These omissions initially appeared risky, but Fenech’s strategy demonstrated faith in the local talent available and the selected roster.

The results reflected a tournament of fluctuating fortunes for Malta. After their initial defeat to Gibraltar, they bounced back emphatically against San Marino. The game against hosts Andorra was a tightly contested affair, but Malta fell short with a score of 82-78. In the semifinal, Malta redeemed their earlier loss by defeating Gibraltar 85-79, setting up a rematch with Andorra in the final. Despite a valiant effort, Malta was edged out 84-79, securing the runner-up position.

“Andorra were always the favourites, playing in front of their home crowd with relatively young and talented players. That said, we always believed we had the quality to make it,” Fenech remarked.

“We are very proud of our players as they gave their all and only fell short of winning the top prize in the last stages of the final game.”

Report Card

Offence: A-

Malta showcased an impressive offensive strategy, particularly highlighted by Deguara’s dominance and Bugeja’s consistent contributions. The team’s ability to recover from the opening loss and post high-scoring games demonstrated effective offensive plays.

Defence: B

While Malta had strong defensive moments, their ability to hold off opponents like Andorra in crucial moments was a mixed bag. Improvement in maintaining defensive intensity throughout the game is needed.

Team Cohesion: B+

The integration of locally-based players with overseas talents was mostly successful. However, the late arrival of key players like Deguara and Tomasi did pose some challenges.

Coaching: B+

Coach Fenech’s debut together with assistants Brandon Cassar Saguna and Omar Said was promising, reflecting a balanced approach and strategic risk-taking. The decision to rely on local talents showcased depth but highlighted areas for further integration and synergy.

Overall Performance: B+

Malta’s journey to the final, coupled with strong individual performances and team resilience, marked a positive campaign. Despite falling short in the final, the team’s progression under new leadership is an indicator for future tournaments.

Malta’s performance at the FIBA European Small Countries Championship 2024 was a testament to their evolving strength and potential under Coach Fenech’s new regime. The mix of local and overseas players demonstrated promising synergy, setting a solid foundation for future international competitions.

Deguara wins MVP award at FIBA European Small Countries Championships

In a remarkable display of skill and determination, Samuel Deguara was named the Most Valuable Player at the FIBA European Small Countries Championship held in Andorra. The Malta centre was instrumental in his team’s impressive run to the final, despite narrowly missing out on the championship with an 84-79 defeat to Andorra on the final day.

Deguara, who plays professionally for the Taiwan Mustangs, missed Malta’s opening game against Gibraltar but made an immediate impact upon his return. His presence on the court proved vital as Malta secured their place in the final, finishing as runners-up in the tournament.

Samuel Degara stats from this year’s FIBA European Small Countries Championships.

Throughout the championship, Deguara’s performance was nothing short of exceptional. He led the tournament in scoring, averaging 22 points per game in just 19.1 minutes of play. His efficiency was remarkable, shooting 80% from the field and 75% from the free-throw line.

In addition to his scoring prowess, Deguara dominated the boards, leading the tournament with an average of 13.3 rebounds per game. He also contributed defensively with 0.3 blocks and 0.3 steals per game, alongside 1 assist per game. His all-around performance included three double-doubles against San Marino, Andorra, and Gibraltar in the semifinal.

Malta’s success in the tournament was undoubtedly driven by Deguara’s leadership and skill. His ability to control the game both offensively and defensively made him an invaluable asset to his team.

The tournament’s conclusion may have seen Malta fall short of the championship, but Deguara’s achievements have certainly left a lasting impression. His MVP award is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and outstanding performance throughout the competition.

As Malta’s most experienced centre, Deguara’s success at the FIBA European Small Countries Championship highlights his significant contributions to Maltese basketball and his potential for future international success.

Malta National Team Gears Up for FIBA Small Countries of Europe Championship

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.

featured image for an article about the Malta National Team.

Fenech Selects Squad for FIBA European Championship for Small Countries 2024

Malta to face hosts Andorra, Gibraltar, and San Marino

The Malta men’s national team is gearing up for the 2024 FIBA European Championship for Small Countries, set to take place in Andorra from June 25 to 30. This marks the first official games for Malta under the new head coach, Duncan Fenech, who took the reins in February.

In preparation for the tournament, Fenech has meticulously overseen the training of an initial squad of 18 players, recently narrowed down to the final 12. The team is set to depart for Andorra on Sunday, with high hopes for the championship.

Commenting on the build-up to the tournament, Fenech emphasized the importance of team unity and balance.

“The team’s preparations have been optimal. Our main focus was on achieving the right balance and a sense of unity within a group of players coming from different clubs, keeping in mind that they have not had many opportunities to play together over the past few months,” he said.

Fenech highlighted the reliance on local players for this tournament as a key consideration.

“We are relying mostly on local players for this tournament and that was another consideration we have taken into account in our preparations for this competition,” he noted.

The team has engaged in several friendly matches, demonstrating notable progress.

“We anticipated a tough start to these friendlies, but the team showed improvement from game to game. Overall, I’m satisfied with the progress of our preparations,” Fenech added.

Malta’s campaign in Group A will commence against Gibraltar on Tuesday, June 25 at 17:00hrs. They will then face San Marino on Wednesday at the same time, followed by their final group game against hosts Andorra on Thursday at 19:30hrs. The semi-finals are scheduled for Saturday, with the third-place game and the final set for Sunday.

We need to approach this challenge with the right mindset, knowing that we need to work very hard to win games and boost our chances of winning gold.

Duncan Fenech

Fenech stressed the importance of the right attitude and commitment from his players to achieve their goal of winning gold.

“In a way, it adds to the pressure since this is a short tournament where we will be playing against teams that are relatively not at the top of the bracket,” he explained, “We need to approach this challenge with the right mindset, knowing that we need to work very hard to win games and boost our chances of winning gold.”

The Malta Basketball Association expressed gratitude to Sport Malta for their continuous support, which has been instrumental in the team’s preparations.

MALTA SQUAD

  • Matthew ScerriIan Felice PaceAlec Felice PaceKurt Xuereb (all Starlites)
  • Miguel Brincat (Depiro)
  • Nathan Xuereb (Luxol)
  • David Bugeja (Mellieha Libertas)
  • Neil Cassar (Valletta Fighters)
  • Kurt Cassar (NPC Rieti, Italy)
  • Sam Deguara (Taiwan Mustangs, Taiwan)
  • Michael Sjoberg (Monthey-Chablais, Switzerland)
  • Joshua Tomasi (Casey Cavaliers Cranbourne, Australia)