FIBA Africa Zone 7 champions, COSPN of Madagascar are looking forward to shine in the inaugural FIBA Africa Basketball League (FIBA ABL).
And tournament MVP Livio Ratianarivo (96) and his teammates have made it clear that they want to leave a mark for their first appearance at the continent's biggest club competition.
Drawn in Group D, alongside Petro Atletico de Luanda of Angola, Egyptian side Smouha and BC Mazembe of DR Congo, COSPN will have to battle hard to reach their set goals.
While the team will experience firsthand a new era for African basketball, Ratianarivo is optimistic about making an impact during the group phase, which will take place from February 15-17.
"We do not know much about our opponents. But we know what we are expecting to achieve is a ticket for the Final four. It will be hard as we will be discovering our opponents', the 23-year old explained.
However, Ratianarivo who is eager to replicate the huge performance he had during the regional qualifiers is aware that they will have an uphill task against continental powerhouses, but what they want to do is to wear confidence as a shield, while trying to take their opponents off balance.
"We won't give up without a good fight. They might have a good reputation, but it does not amount too much in basketball. It's what you give on the court that counts," the Sambava native said.
Height will be a major concern for COSPN. And as only the pitch rules, Ratianarivo is adamant about his side's qualities.
"Our opponents are tall. And compared to them, we are not. But it does not mean that we will remain idle on the pitch," Ratianarivo revealed.
Despite this difference, COSPN are willing to give it their best shot, like they did at the FIBA Africa Zone 7 Championships, in Seychelles, December last.
They set to work right after the tournament, keeping in mind that they will be showcasing Madagascar's basketball during the FIBA ABL campaign.
"According to the coach, we are on time and on the right track. We'll be ready when the tournament tips off next month," Ratianarivo concluded.
Courtesy of FIBA Africa
