Category: Malta Basketball

Starlites make squad official ahead of FIBA Europe Cup qualifiers

Malta champions Starlites launched their squad for the FIBA Europe Cup qualifiers on Tuesday with 12 players making the cut ahead of their debut next week at the Ta’ Qali Pavilion against Anorthosis Famagusta of Cyprus.

In a press conference, coach Paul Ferrante made official the names of 12 players joining him for the two-game tie, including a mix of local and import players. The Starlites mentor lauded his player’s attitude throughout preseason, saying their energy would be vital for the experience ahead.

“I see these guys – the way they come in full of energy – that is the first step and it augurs well for a good outing so that we can be well-prepared,” Ferrante told the press conference.

“Some guys have been in Malta for three or four days and we are already getting better and better. We had a good preseason tournament which was very important for us to give us a good evaluation of the things we need to work on.”

 Speaking about the club’s new additions to the nucleus of Starlites players who have grown together, Ferrante explained the loss of Alec Felice Pace and Matt Attard, as well as their European opponents’ calibre fuelled their acquisition of five new imports, two more than usual.

“Apart from the three import players we usually have, even because we lost Alec Felice Pace and Matt Attard, we opted to add two more as in the European cup there are no restrictions for import players,” the title-winning coach said.

“We are playing against a professional team but our behaviour as a semi-professional team has been pro. When you see these players getting time off and being there at 7.30 in the morning for a session which is obviously out of their work time, that for me, means they are already winners.”

Historical moment

Starlites president Ivan Riolo also had words of praise for what he called a “historical moment for the club” however, when asked by Malta Basketball about the club’s expectations, he emphasised that while they were ambitious, they would have to keep their feet on the ground.

“It is a club milestone, a historical moment for the club, competing for the first time in the FIBA Europe Cup,” Riolo said. 

“It’s been a long path and it’s been a demanding endeavour. A lot of people have put a lot of energy and hard work into it and now we’re looking forward to the big day.

“This is a level that is not one step higher but a new experience altogether. Our target is to go there and win obviously but we can’t be over-ambitious. We are ambitious but we must also keep our feet on the ground and understand that we are playing against opposition with Europe Cup experience. Given it’s a first for us, this is also motivation that we need to energise our team and get the boys going on the court.

“More than the result, I would really like Starlites to make a name in FIBA basketball and we play our game in a positive way.”

Malta Basketball Association (MBA) president Paul Sultana was also present at the event and said this was another stepping stone for Maltese basketball.

“It is our pleasure to support this initiative,” Sultana said, “Well done to Starlites – this is another stepping stone for basketball in Malta. I’m happy to see these young guys taking part in Europe – I’m sure it will be something they will remember for a very long time.”

Finally, Naxxar mayor Dr Christopher Deguara said the local council was proud to support this endeavour.

“It is a great pleasure for us that you honour us by carrying our locality’s name,” Deguara said. 

“We look at sports not only as just sports but we believe in it as it brings people together and keeps us active and healthy. As a council, this is part of our way forward and that is why we are very proud to support this.”

Orange is the new blue

In addition to their team’s launch, Starlites also launched their new kits for the FIBA Europe Cup and the coming season with orange replacing the team’s away blue kits. 

“We’re very proud to launch this new attire,” Riolo said. 

“The colours of our club are blue and white but we gave a voice to our young athletes this time and asked them for feedback. They decided to take our third colour, orange, and make it a bit more prominent and bright. 

“It is also a tribute to our first kit eight or nine years ago after amalgamating with Virtus Basket.”

Riolo closed by thanking the team’s sponsors VisitMalta, Teamsport, SportMalta, JSD, KM Malta Airlines, Revive, H2Only and the MBA.

Starlites FIBA Europe Cup Squad:

Ian Felice Pace, Kurt Xuereb, Matthew Scerri, Louie Farrugia, Miguel Fabri, Neil Sultana, Joe Davis, Trevon Reddish Rhone, Max Curran, Kolten Mortensen, Carson Newsome, Andrew Aquilina.

Kurt Xuereb re-signs with Starlites

Malta title-holders Starlites have re-signed forward Kurt Xuereb, the club has confirmed.

“It’s a great honour to announce that Maltese national team captain Kurt Xuereb has re-signed with the Starlites organisation,” Starlites said in a statement. 

“Xuereb, who was assigned the role of co-captain of the squad for the upcoming season, needs no introduction in the local scene, winning several youth leagues through his career, as well as being a 2x MVP in the U23 category. 

“On a senior level, he has formed part of our championship-winning squads in the past 3 years, while also winning several medals with the national team, including the gold medal in 2018. We are sure that Kurt will once again play a vital part in his new role within our Senior Men squad.”

Coach Paul Ferrante had confirmed in July that Xuereb would co-captain the side with Ian Felice Pace after the departure of Alec Felice Pace to Germany to join CityBasket Recklinghausen.

“(I’m) Looking forward to an exciting season ahead with new opportunities, especially as we compete in the Europe Cup for the first time,” Xuereb told the club’s socials. 

“It’s certainly a great challenge, but one we feel fully prepared for. Our primary focus remains on replicating the success of previous seasons and defending both the league title and other domestic cups. 

“On a personal note, being named co-captain alongside Ian is a tremendous honour and responsibility. I am committed to giving 100% every day as part of the Starlites family, and I look forward to continuing to contribute to our collective success.”

Last season, Xuereb missed most of the season due to injury after suffering an awkward fall during the John Tabone Shield. However, he returned at the business end of the campaign to help the side take the last of four trophies lifted in an incredible quadruple season.

He then linked up with the National Team to play under coach Duncan Fenech as the team reached the final of the FIBA Small Countries Championships.

Valletta sign 6’3 Taissia Nikishina as transfer coup continues

Milica Stefanovic, Nicole Montalvo, Maria Momcilovic join Capital Club

Valletta BC women have announced more signings these past few days as the Capital club confirmed Russian centre Taissia Nikishina, Milica Stefanovic, together with former Fusion Quest duo Maria Momcilovic and Nicole Montalvo.

Nikishina is believed to be the team’s hottest prospect this coming season, bringing height to the roster which has already shown its intentions with further signings like Sabrina Abugrin Alexia Parnis, Sara Kakaras, and Maria Mifsud. 

Sources have told Malta Basketball, that the Capital club believes the 6’3 youngster has a lot of potential and they are looking forward to her debut at Ta’ Qali in November.

“We are proud to announce Taissia Nikishina as a Valletta Basketball Club player,” Valletta said in a statement.

“Taissia is the youngest player of our club but is considered a fantastic prospect. She is a very hardworking player and a bright future awaits her.

“The 190cm centre is returning to the game she loves after having a successful time in athletics.”

Meanwhile, the club also brought in former Athleta women’s team player Stefanovic. The Serbian was on the books of the Gzira-based club during their last experience in the MAPFRE Women’s League before a hiatus that ended this summer as the team returned to the league yet again.

“We are thrilled to announce Milica Tasman Stefanovic as a Lioness,” a club statement read.

“Milica has been playing basketball since she was 6 and amongst the teams she played for, she played for BIP Basketball Club, Vozdovac Basketball Club and Radnicki Belgrade.

“She has achieved a lot of titles throughout her career and her experience is definitely a huge asset for the Capital’s team.”

Later in the week, Valletta added another two players to their squad, with Nicole Montalvo and Maria Momcilovic joining fellow former Fusion Quest players Alexia Parnis and Sarah Kankaras at the Capital club.

Valletta confirm Stelmach report as Farrugia stays

Citizens sign Andre Attard, Jonathan Camilleri

Valletta BC confirmed Malta Basketball’s July report on Monday after announcing the signing of former Athleta centre Piotr Stelmach while continuing to upgrade their roster for the coming season with the extension of Maltese centre Matthew Farrugia, as well as two new local signings for the senior men’s team. 

Stelmach was one of the highlights of last season with Athleta and this will be a boost in value to the Capital Club’s roster as the former NCAA SEC champion was back in Malta for preseason with coach Harry Savaya and his team.

“We are excited to announce Piotr Stelmach as a Valletta Player,” a statement read.

“Graduated from Mississippi State University a D1 college, competed in SEC and won it. Stelmach played 11 years pro in Poland at the highest level and competed in EuroCup and VTB – (he) won the Polish Championship, won a bronze medal in Poland, won the Polish Cup.”

Valletta Fighters sign Stelmach from Athleta

Through announcements made by the club throughout the last few days, the Citizens also re-confirmed Farrugia after having been a big part of their debut season in Division One last season. Before that, the club showcased the signing of former Luxol youth player Andre Attard and former Depiro player Jonathan Camilleri. 

“We are pleased to confirm Matthew Farrugia as a Valletta Player,” a club statement read. 

“Matthew started playing with Loyola Basketball Club and attended several international basketball camps in Europe. He also represented Malta at the 2010 & 2011, U16 European Championship Men Division C and other smaller competitions with the national team

“After a break, the Two-meter centre returned to play with Valletta Basketball club.” 

Last season under coach Harry Savaya, Farrugia played 18 games, starting 12 across all competitions. He averaged 3.4 points and 3.7 rebounds a game in a season where Valletta looked to be in their experimental stage, putting a challenge for the rest of the teams but struggling to keep up in the final stages of games, an issue attributed to the lack of experience as a team within the division. 

New Valletta signings

Meanwhile, the Capital Club have brought on Attard for his senior debut after having played for Luxol’s youth teams in the past.

“We are pleased to announce Andre Attard as part of our club for the upcoming season,” Valletta said in a separate statement.

“After 10 years experience with Luxol with 2 titles won, he is joining us for his first experience at the highest level.”

Finally, the club has also signed veteran player Camilleri, whose past experience at Depiro and Qormi is said to be an asset to the team’s efforts.

“We are happy to announce Jonathan Camilleri as a Valletta Basketball Club player,” Valletta announced.

“Jonathan is not a new face within the local basketball scene, having started his basketball career with Qormi Basketball Club and eventually also joining Depiro Basketball Club in recent years.

“Jonathan has played in the senior and junior teams within both Qormi and Depiro and will surely bring in experience and grit for this year’s team in searching for success.”

Bamfield embraces ‘brilliant preparation’ after Elite Basketball Preseason Tournament debut

The latest addition to the Elite Basketball Preseason Tournament was UK-based Anglia Ruskin University (ARU). Led by former Depiro coach James Bamfield, the ARU team visited Malta as the second international team for the summer event which brings preseason to a close before the start of the new basketball campaign.

Speaking to Malta Basketball, Bamfield sounded his enthusiasm towards a return to Malta to play such a competition.

“The tournament’s fantastic. I mean, thanks to Ruben (Baldacchino) for inviting us,” Bamfield said. 

“You’ve got teams that are about to play in Europe Cup, a team full of American players, so for our guys – we’re going to be playing in Division Four of the English League, so basically Division Five – this for us is amazing preparation. We’re so grateful to be here.”

ARU took the court on Thursday when they faced Malta champions Starlites and after a shaky start from both sides, Starlites showed their mettle as their newly-stacked team took over proceeding for an 81-49 full-time score.

However, despite the defeat, Bamfield is pleased with his side’s showing.

“We’ll take a lot of bright spots from the first quarter,” he said, “We played very well in the first quarter, defensively held them, I think, to like 20-something. So that was strong, really positive. 

“Defensively, I think 81 against a team with five Americans, I’m really pleased with it. We defensively take a lot of pride in that. 

On the offensive end of the floor, when you’ve got a bunch of guys who really just met each other when we got on the plane, the chemistry is not going to be there to compete at that level of defence. 

“In the first half when we were close to the bench, I was able to help a little bit with some organisation. But when we were down the far end as a coach, it was tough to influence the offence. 

“But no, it’s brilliant preparation for us and really, really positive.”

Bamfield led Depiro until 2022, before both parted ways ahead of the next season where the club had temporarily appointed Brian Semonian. Since then, Bamfield has gone on to coach the Welsh National Team and eventually ARU.

Narciso aiming to instil new habits after postponing break to join Hibs

New Hibernians coach Christian Narciso has had a baptism of fire with his new club with the Italian’s first test of the summer being a tough pre-season fixture against the USA Select team on Wednesday.

At the Ta’ Qali Pavilion, the Paolites put on a strong performance, but could not match the energy and athleticism brought by the team of American players who are currently in Malta for the Elite Basketball Preseason Tournament.

Speaking to Malta Basketball, Narciso, who returned to Malta after an absence of one season where he was an assistant coach in the Italian Serie B with Orlandina Basket, said it was not his initial intention to return to coach just yet. 

“Well, first of all, I came back for personal reasons because I moved here with my wife so I didn’t come here for coaching this year,” Narciso said. 

“I wanted to take a year off but then Hibernians contacted me after they parted away with the previous coach and then I saw the project and it was interesting.”

Narciso joins the team after his experience with Mellieha Libertas, who dropped out of the senior divisions over the summer. With Libertas, Narciso had lifted the Louis Borg Cup and will be hoping to replicate this trophy-winning run with the Paolites as he revealed he had agreed to a multi-year contract in August.

“We actually have a deal for more years and it makes sense that we’re going together because we have the same philosophy on that.”

Summer tests

With the new season right around the corner, Hibs will be hoping to get into gear quickly to ensure a bright start to this coming campaign in Division One.

On Wednesday, the team showcased a number of their new signings, with Derek Brown and Matthew Gouder making their unofficial debut as Hibs players as they await the arrival of import player Tedrick Wolfe. Added to that was Miguel Mallia as Malta Basketball can confirm, the former Depiro player has joined the club on loan for the coming season. Meanwhile, Malta Basketball can also confirm the departure of Billy Joel Zammit to Athleta with both Mallia and Zammit having already suited up for their new clubs this week.

Asked about their first test, a 111-69 defeat to the USA Select, Narciso believes it was a tough start but he lauded his players’ efforts after just three weeks of training.

“Well, of course, it’s been difficult, you know 12 Americans to face it’s a little bit tough for us but we knew that it was going to be like this,” he admitted.

“Actually I’m pretty happy about some stuff that we have been working on. Of course, the result says otherwise but that comes afterwards, so that’s what I said also to my guys – it’s fine because we’re working now it’s three weeks I believe, so not that long we’re still on route to getting better, to get rid of some bad habits, and to build new ones.”

“We’re really talented this year” – USA Select thrives tour finale in Malta

The USA Select team, led by Coach Andrea Stinson, has enjoyed a successful run in Europe as the Elite Basketball Preseason tournament brings to an end another annual summer tour, providing the players with valuable exposure and competition. While the on-court performances have been impressive, it is the experience and development of the team that has stood out.

Coach Stinson, a former WNBA All-Star, spoke highly of this year’s squad, emphasizing the growth and depth of the players: “Well, we have a great group of guys this year. They are very talented and very outspoken. Last year we had, you know, decent talent, but this year we’re really talented.”

The tour has been an opportunity for the team to bond and showcase their skills to a wider audience.

Throughout the tour, USA Select has faced various teams, using every game as an opportunity to sharpen their strategies and allow their players to develop on the international stage. Stinson’s focus has been on giving the players the chance to be seen and helping them prepare for potential professional careers.

“At USA Select, we’re really looking forward to just helping young men and continuing to allow them an opportunity to be seen,” she remarked.

The team’s time in Malta has also allowed the players some much-needed downtime after a rigorous three-week schedule.

“We’ve been playing a game every day for the last three weeks, so the guys were able to relax and get a day off when we got here, so we’re enjoying it here in Malta,” Stinson noted.

The balance between competition and rest has helped the team stay fresh for the remaining matches, particularly as they look ahead to the championship game.

Video: Elite Basketball Management

USA Select vs Hibernians

USA Select continued their winning on the court with a 110-69 victory over Hibernians at the Malta Basketball Association Pavilion. The team displayed their fast-paced transition game, which proved too much for their opponents. Key players such as Daequon Antoine and Malcolm Morgan were instrumental in building an early lead. Despite Hibernians’ efforts, especially from standout Ivan Demcesen, USA Select maintained control throughout the game.

With this win, USA Select heads confidently into the tournament’s final stages, with Coach Stinson expecting a tougher challenge in the championship: “I think the tournament is great. We’re expecting a tougher championship game on Friday.”

Youth Basketball Camp a success

In addition to their on-court performance, USA Select’s coaches played a key role in the Youth Basketball Camp organized by Elite Sports Management Malta. Held at Ta’ Qali Pavilion, the camp provided young Maltese players with expert guidance in areas like shooting, dribbling, and teamwork. Coaches from USA Select, alongside local coaches, conducted workshops that enhanced the players’ understanding of the game.

Ruben Baldacchino of Elite Sports Management praised the camp’s impact.

“It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I am sure these young players will remember this,” Baldacchino said.

Camp attendees received personalised coaching and had the chance to compete and interact with USA Select players.

Sam Deguara joins Macau Black Bears

Malta international centre Samuel Deguara embarks on his latest Asian move as he joins the Macau Black Bears in the Asian Tournament, the club has confirmed.

This will be Deguara’s second experience within the league after his time with the Taiwan Mustangs, having been joined by former NBA stars Dwight Howard, Quinn Cook, and Demarcus Cousins last season.

Throughout the last campaign, Deguara put on outstanding displays, being named in the top player of the game charts several times. Now he moves to Macau to join the Black Bears who will be looking to push for a playoff run after finishing fifth last season and just missing the post-season.

Earlier on this summer, Deguara was part of the Malta National team again for this year’s FIBA Small Countries Championships where the team led by coach Duncan Fenech took home the silver medal.

At these games, Deguara sat for the opening fixture after having arrived at the last minute due to club commitments in Taiwan. However, he was a crucial part of the next four games which saw Malta head to the final. Deguara put up a 22 points-per-game average with 13.3 rebounds and an assist in between.

This will be Deguara’s 14 country of play in a career which has helped him travel the world while representing Malta as the current tallest active player in the world at 7’7.

Elite Basketball Tournament Malta 2024 set for tip off

The highly anticipated Elite Basketball Tournament Malta 2024 will tip off on Wednesday at the Ta’ Qali Pavilion. This year’s tournament, which runs until Friday, will bring together top basketball talent from the USA, United Kingdom, and Malta, with reigning local champions Starlites and Hibernians set to face stiff international competition.

The tournament, which has grown in popularity over the years, aims to foster international collaboration and provide local teams with valuable pre-season experience. Both Starlites and Hibernians are gearing up to showcase their skills in front of international scouts and coaches. The event promises to be a significant opportunity for Maltese basketball to further establish itself on the international stage.

“This year’s event has attracted more interest, and we are happy that we have a team from the United Kingdom. It is a great opportunity for local clubs to test their squads before the start of the season. This is the only international event for local basketball enthusiasts that involves local clubs. We are happy to provide this opportunity for the past four years,” said Ruben Baldacchino, director of the Elite Basketball Tournament.

Youth Clinic with Top Coaches

In addition to the high-level basketball competition, the event featured a youth clinic led by some of the game’s finest coaches. This three-hour session which took place on Tuesday, focused on building fundamental skills, giving young Maltese players the chance to learn from top international coaches.

Notably, the clinic was led by WNBA All-Star Andrea Stinson, former NCAA Division One coach Kevin Cantwell, and seasoned coach Sean Kilmartin. Cantwell’s impressive resume includes coaching 22 NBA players, such as the legendary Stephon Marbury.

“This camp has been one of our highlights during the whole event, with large participation from the local basketball community. We believe it is important to give priority to the younger generation, especially with the presence of some of the top international coaches in the game. The camp has always been a success and has grown in popularity over the past four years,” Baldacchino remarked.

Teams and competition

This year’s competition will feature an impressive lineup of teams. Local clubs Starlites, the reigning national champions, and Hibernians, challengers for this season’s honours, will face tough competition from abroad. ARU University, a team competing in the UK college basketball and national league, will bring strong opposition, while USA Select, having dominated the tournament’s previous editions, are back with a formidable squad of young talent.

Starlites will also use this tournament as part of their preparation for their upcoming FIBA Europe Cup debut, adding another layer of excitement for local fans.

Celebration of sport

New awards will also be introduced this year, including the All-Star Team of the Tournament and the prestigious Most Valuable Player award, adding to the excitement surrounding the event.

“We are thrilled to host the Elite Basketball Tournament Malta 2024,” Baldacchino said, “This event not only highlights the talent of young athletes but also reinforces our commitment to promoting basketball within Malta and fostering international collaboration through sport. I would like to thank Visit Malta and the Malta Basketball Association for their support.”

Entrance to the tournament is free, but fans are encouraged to secure their seats early as it is expected to draw significant interest. For more information, visit the event’s social media pages.

Valletta BC pay tribute as Andy Rey Calago passes away

Tributes flowed on Friday night after Filipino basketball player Andy Calago passed away earlier in the day.

Calago, who was set to join Maltese side Valletta BC this summer ahead of next season, was part of the numerous additions the club was making in an effort to grow ahead of their second season in Maltese basketball. On Friday, the Capital club issued a statement on their socials, commemorating Calago.

“It is with great sadness that we remember Andy Rey B. Calago, a talented basketball player whose life was taken today,” the statement read. 

“Andy was not just a fierce competitor during training, but also a humble and kind-hearted individual off it. His passion for the game was contagious, and he inspired everyone around him with his relentless work ethic, dedication, and love for basketball. 

“Beyond his athletic prowess, Andy will be remembered for the joy he brought to his teammates, friends, and family. His presence lit up every room, and his kindness and generosity will never be forgotten. His spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him

“As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate his life, his achievements, and the profound impact he made on those around him. Andy Rey B. Calago may no longer be with us physically, but his legacy will forever be etched in our memories. Rest in peace, Andy. You will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.”

Malta Basketball offers its condolences to Calago’s friends and family in this sad moment. RIP