Preview of Road To BAL Elite 16 Group A Division West

ABC Fighters

The ABC Fighters from Côte d’Ivoire are determined to reclaim their status among Africa’s elite basketball teams. With a legacy of 22 national championships, Fighters are well-versed in high-pressure situations. They will leverage their extensive experience and the support of their home crowd as they aim for a deep run in the Elite 16. After missing out on BAL Season 4, they are eager for redemption and ready to make their mark on the continental stage.

Key Players

Central to the Fighters’ strategy is Nisre Zouzoua, whose offensive skills and leadership on the court are invaluable. Known for his ability to score in bunches, Zouzoua averages 21.2 points per game and is vital in clutch moments. Alongside him (Zouzoua) is the dynamic Karim Mane, who brings a wealth of international experience from his time in the NBA. Mane’s playmaking ability and court vision create numerous scoring opportunities for his teammates. The supporting cast are Jaylen Bland and Jabari Akins Narcis, who add depth and versatility to the lineup.

Tactical Approach

The Fighters pride themselves on a balanced offensive attack, utilising inside and outside scoring. The Ivorian club’s playing style features quick ball movement, exploiting mismatches, and using pick-and-roll situations to create open looks. Defensively, they are disciplined and aggressive, often switching defences to keep opponents guessing. With a solid game plan, the Fighters are well-prepared to face the challenges ahead.

Nisre Zouzoua in Road To BAL action — **ABC will count on Nisre Zouzoua’s scoring during the Elite 16 Group A fixtures. Pictures: FIBA**

Outlook

Having previously competed in the Elite 16, the ABC Fighters understand the intensity required to succeed. They cannot afford to rest on their laurels; every game is a test, and they must come ready to compete. Playing in their home country during the Elite 16 Division West gives them an added advantage. Their passionate fanbase will undoubtedly boost their confidence. The mix of seasoned veterans and talented newcomers, makes Fighters well-equipped to make a statement in the qualifiers. Fans can expect an exciting and competitive season as they aim for a triumphant return to the BAL.

Moanda Basket

The Gabon club is poised to make an impact as they enter the Elite 16 qualifiers after a wild card gave them a lifeline. After recently winning the 2024 Gabonese Basketball Cup, the team brings a wave of momentum and a renewed spirit to the tournament.

Key Players

At the centre of Moanda’s ambitions is Hermann Junior Boukosso Igouwe, a dynamic guard whose impressive statistics – 17.5 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game – highlight his importance to the team. Boukosso Igouwe’s ability to score and facilitate plays will be crucial as he leads his teammates against challenging opponents.

Alongside Boukosso Igouwe, Moanda boasts a diverse roster of players ready to step up when needed. The combination of offensive skills and defensive strength will be essential as they navigate the demanding environment of the Elite 16.

Tactical Approach

Moanda is recognised for its up-tempo style of play, leveraging speed and agility to create scoring opportunities. The coaching staff emphasises ball movement and teamwork, ensuring that multiple players contribute offensively. Defensively, they focus on applying pressure and forcing turnovers, aiming to capitalise on fast-break opportunities. As newcomers to the Road To BAL, every game presents a learning experience and will be challenging.

Hermann Boukosso in action — **Can Hermann Boukosso and Moanda make the most of their wild card entry to the Elite 16.**

Outlook

If they can harness their scoring abilities, maintain defensive discipline, and cultivate teamwork, Moanda has the potential to surprise many in their inaugural season. As they enter the continental stage, the spotlight will be on The Gabonese Champions as they strive to establish themselves in African basketball history.

Chaux Sport

Chaux Sport has emerged as a surprising contender in the Road to BAL qualifiers, holding an undefeated record in their qualifying matches. Their confidence is soaring, and they are eager to show that their success is no fluke.

Key Players

The success of Chaux Sport involves the dynamic trio of Franck Nyembo, Etienne Tametong Toko, and Pitchou Kambuy Manga. Nyembo, known for his scoring ability and tenacity, averages 19.4 points per game, making him a central figure in their offensive strategy. Toko’s defensive skills and rebounding capabilities provide a strong presence in the paint, while Manga’s versatility enables him to contribute effectively on both ends of the floor. Together, they form a formidable core that can challenge any opponent.

Tactical Approach

Chaux Sport employs a high-pressure defensive strategy that disrupts opponents and forces turnovers. Their fast-paced offence thrives on quick transitions and perimeter shooting, keeping defences on their toes. They are a team that shares the ball well and has a good chemistry. The coaching staff emphasises adaptability, preparing players to adjust their tactics based on their competition.

Etienne Tametong in Road To BAL action — **Chaux Sport will tap into Etienne Tametong’s experience to get through the Elite 16.**

Outlook

With a good start to their campaign, Chaux Sport is eager to maintain its winning momentum. The competition will intensify in the Elite 16, but their undefeated record instils confidence. If they can keep their focus and execution, we can expect Chaux Sport to be a formidable contender in their group, aiming for a deep run in the tournament.

Stade Malien

Stade Malien, one of the most storied clubs in Mali’s basketball history, brings a wealth of experience to the Road To BAL qualifiers. Founded in 1960, they are a dominant force in the domestic league – boasting 19 Ligue 1 titles and 25 Malian Cups. Malien had a great BAL Season 3, finishing third.

Key Players

Mahamane Coulibaly has emerged as a standout player for Stade Malien, making a significant impact during his first appearance in the Road to BAL. He leads the team in scoring with an impressive average of 18.0 points per game and contributes substantially on the boards with an average of 6.5 rebounds. His high-tempo play and exceptional court vision make him a driving force in Stade Malien’s fast-paced offensive strategies. Coulibaly’s ability to score and facilitate will be crucial in high-stakes matchups, where maintaining offensive momentum is essential.

Mohamed Pare is a seasoned 6’6″ forward is another additional weapon. After returning from their Season 3 BAL campaign, Pare has shown notable improvement. He is averaging 6.5 points and leading the team with 9.5 rebounds. His defensive capabilities, demonstrated by an efficiency rating of 12.5, make him a key asset for Stade Maliens. His rebounding and physical presence in the paint is invaluable.

Tactical Approach

Stade Malien’s roster combines speed and strength, excelling in fast-break execution while dominating inside the paint. Their ability to convert defensive stops into quick offensive points keeps opponents on their toes. The team transitions seamlessly up the court during fast breaks. They can also turn rebounds and steals into immediate scoring opportunities.

**Pare Mahomed has developed into a formidable player for Stade Malien.**

Outlook

The combination of fast-break efficiency and control of the paint, positions Stade Malien as a formidable contender in the Elite 16. These elements will be crucial as they navigate this phase of the Road To BAL.

Fans can look forward to mouth-watering battles from Group A.

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Affi and renewed ABC Fighters locked in for Road To BAL

The Role of Côte d’Ivoire’s Ligue d’Or in ABC Fighters’ Journey

Competing in the Ligue d’Or (formerly the Ivorian Basketball Championship) has been crucial to the ABC Fighters’ success. The most decorated team in domestic history, they have dominated and elevated the league’s standard. Affi highlighted how the league’s quality has improved with the influence of the BAL. “Our national league is of an average level within the sub-region, but with the BAL’s influence, the competition is gradually becoming more professional,” said Koffi

This progress has not gone unnoticed – it has shaped the ABC Fighters into a team well-prepared to face their opposition in continental play. The influx of foreign talent and increased investment have heightened the league’s competitiveness, pushing local players to rise to new challenges.

**Anderson Affi says Ligue d’Or has improved the quality of Cote d’Ivoire’s domestic game. Pictures: Supplied**

Transitioning from Domestic to Continental Competitions

The transition from the familiarity of Ligue d’Or to the elite competition of The Road to BAL presents unique challenges. Coach Affi emphasizes that competing on the continental stage requires heightened adaptability and intensity, both on and off the court. “Our biggest challenge is to prove that our high ranking in African basketball is well-deserved,” he noted.

Affi understands that overcoming these challenges necessitates significant financial investment and strategic planning to meet the demands of continental play. “To succeed in the Road To BAL, you must invest a lot of money to ensure proper preparation, and you need to recruit the best players,” he states. “When the team is well-prepared with quality players, everything else becomes easier.”

Challenges and Lessons from Missing Out on BAL Season 4

After their performance in Season 3 of the BAL, where they lost 88-84 to Angola’s Petro de Luanda in the quarterfinals, the ABC Fighters qualified directly for the Elite 16 per league rules. However, this proved disadvantageous, as they entered the Elite 16 without assessing the true level of competition in the continental league and finished with a 1-2 record, missing out on a spot in Season 4 of the BAL.

Reflecting on this missed opportunity, Coach Affi shares insights into the factors that stifled the ABC Fighters. “We qualified directly for the Elite 16 last season. Unfortunately, we did not prepare well. It was clear that we lacked teamwork and cohesion. Our automatisms were non-existent, and our defence was too lax,” said Affi. Late roster setups and limited training time compromised team cohesion and defensive strength, preventing the Fighters from competing at their full potential. This experience served as a wake-up call, prompting the team to rethink their approach and prioritize early, thorough preparation for the upcoming campaign.

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Revitalized Preparation and Strategic Adjustments

Determined to improve from last season, the ABC Fighters have revamped their strategy for the offseason. This year, they implemented critical changes in their preparation and roster-building, allowing for a comprehensive preseason where players could establish teamwork and communication. “We started our regroupings and training earlier. Our foreign players arrived earlier, which allowed us to focus on teamwork and cohesion,” noted Affi.

A notable new addition to the roster is Karim Mané, a former NBA player whose experience brings invaluable depth to the team. “He brings his experience from the NBA environment, which is invaluable for our team,” Coach Affi emphasized, highlighting Mané’s positive impact on morale and team dynamics.

This renewed approach has already yielded positive results, as the Fighters completed the West Division games in Libya undefeated. ABC showcased their strength throughout their three group matches – ending their campaign in Libya with a 94-66 victory over Benin’s Elan Coton. Despite this success, Coach Affi stresses that their job remains unfinished. “We are currently undefeated, but we must remain cautious because the Elite 16 represents a completely different challenge. It will not resemble the West Division, so we need to approach it with the utmost seriousness,” said Affi.

Anderson Affi of ABC — **Anderson Affi says the Elite 16 is a different challenge.**

Fan Support and the Quest for Continental Success

While national pride may be an overarching theme for ABC’s continental drive, it is not the sole factor, the value added by their unwavering fans is another key ingredient. The presence of their supporters is a constant reminder of the responsibility they bear as the country’s most decorated team. “Our immediate priority is to qualify for the final stages. The fans are our greatest motivation. We need their support because, without them, the task becomes extremely challenging,” says Affi.

The areas that need improvement have been identified and worked on, thus putting Coach Affi and the ABC Fighters in a position to be successful on the continental stage. With their sights set on Season 5 of The BAL, the ABC Fighters are committed to making Côte d’Ivoire proud and establishing themselves as a powerhouse in African basketball.

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Harouna and ABC ready to fight for BAL title

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Harouna happy to be reunited with Mills

ABDOULAYE Harouna’s family ties to basketball were the catalyst that led to him picking up the game and allowed him to spread his wings.

The shooting guard credits his aunt, a former player and someone whom Harouna has high regard for, as the one who influenced him to “fall in love with game”.

“It was my aunt. That is how I fell in love with the game. I used to watch her play, and, in my opinion, she is one of the best female players I have ever seen from Niger. Whenever she had a game or practice, I would watch her. That is where it all began for me,” said Harouna, who furthered his basketball and studies in the United States.

**Abdoulaye Harouna feels ABC is a balanced team. Pictures: Getty Images**

Since returning from the US, the 31-year-old has played professional basketball on the African continent, specifically in the three-year-old Basketball Africa League (BAL).

Harouna, an ever-present in the league since its inception, has played for Forces Armées et Police (FAP), AS Salé and now, in season 3 is turning out for BAL debutants, ABC Fighters.

The Cote d’Ivoire club has already qualified for the playoffs in Kigali, Rwanda (21-27 May), with a 3-2 record from the Sahara Conference. Before ABC’s last conference game, a 90-71 loss to Mali’s Stade Malien on Tuesday, Harouna spoke to The Big Tip Off about what it means to him to be a professional player on African soil.

“It is always a dream for an African kid to become a pro somewhere in the world. Now they have the opportunity to play on this continent, in front of their family, friends and fans. So, it’s great to have that opportunity here in Africa,” said the former AS Nigelec player.

**Abdoulaye Harouna feels he can still improve as a player.**

Harouna has played at a high level since the BAL came into existence and has averaged 19 points per game in his first two seasons. This season, his scoring average took a tiny dip (18 points per game), but the 1.96m (6ft5) guard is not concerned about his numbers.

The Nigerien player feels the best of him is still to come.

“For me, it’s okay. I would not say that’s the only good aspect of my game. I think I can get better, and there are other areas of my game I can work on. The work and sacrifice I have put in is also starting to pay off. I have to continue finding ways to get better,” said the Fighters guard.

On his journey to improving as a player, Harouna joined his former AS Sale coach Liz Mills at ABC.

Harouna explained that while he is happy to play under Mills, their relationship is not always plain sailing.

“It’s been great because I have worked with her before. We respect each other. We have a past working relationship. That has made things easy. I can also say that now and then, we disagree with each other. But we do find each other. I also understand that she is the coach,” said Harouna. “I think one of her strengths is her ability to take in the input of players. Sometimes as players, we have to rely on our instincts in certain plays. Not every game is the same, and we have to adjust to change as it happens during game time. She understands that, and it is something I appreciate.”

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The veteran guard also explained that he experiences his new team as balanced, unlike his last two teams at the BAL, which were strong on one side but would find themselves lacking on the other.

“What I have seen is that we have a good bench. Our local players are good. They can come in and play, so you don’t have to rely on the imports to play many minutes. The team is well-balanced in offence and defence,” said Harouna. “In my first team, we were good defensively but not good offensively, and we were limited because there were not many options.

“Last year Salè were good in attack but were limited in defence. This year ABC has a good balance at both ends of the floor. That has the potential to make us a great team.”

Harouna feels he is in a situation where he and ABC can capture their maiden BAL title.

He parted by saying they would compete for the BAL title and that it would not fall at their feet.

“We are Fighters. We have to go and fight for what we want. Nobody will hand us the title. We have to go and get it,” concluded Harouna.

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Mills spells out ABC’s BAL aspirations

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WHEN season three of the Basketball Africa League (BAL) tips off in Dakar, Senegal, on Saturday, ABC Fighters coach Liz Mills will have a singular goal in mind. That is to restore Cote d’Ivoire’s most successful club’s image on the continent.

In the early 2000s, ABC enjoyed a period of success in the defunct FIBA Africa Clubs Champions Cup. Their crowning moment was becoming champions of the tournament in 2005, and on either side of their trophy win, they captured silver (2004) and bronze (2007). Since then ABC have been unable to replicate or come near those feats in continental basketball.

While Mills, who spoke to The Big Tip Off on Thursday, acknowledged the club’s past glory days at the continental level, she knows her team can write a new chapter for themselves in their debut season at the BAL.

“They have always been a competitive team, but it’s been a while since they have been back at this level. I want to put this team back on the continental map. This club has a long history. I think they deserve to be spoken about in a more revered manner,” said Australia-born Mills.

Initially, Mills took a coy tone about the ambition of the 20-time Ivorian league champions ahead of the BAL tournament.

“We are flying under the radar. People are not saying we are favourites or a team to look out for. I think that is to our advantage. I think we are going to surprise a lot of people,” said Mills, who made her BAL debut as coach of AS Sale last year.

But the question is, are the Fighters a closed book and do they have the element of surprise on their side?

The question emanates from the fact that the Abidjan based-club won the Road To BAL Division West qualifiers last year, which culminated in qualification to the BAL. Mills’ milestones in the African game have also not gone unnoticed, so she and ABC would surely be hard to miss.

Mills, who has been impressed by the ABC players, says that things have changed in the team since the Road To BAL qualifiers, and she may have a trick or two up her sleeve at the tournament.

“It’s a different team, and we play differently compared to how the team played last year in the qualifiers. Credit must go to the local players. In the last six weeks they have grasped many new concepts and systems. They have exceeded my expectations,” said Mills, who took over the coaching reins after ABC qualified for the BAL. “People can go back and watch films of previous games, but that is not what we will show on the court. What I can say is, we will be an exciting team to watch.”

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With players like veteran leader Stéphane Konaté, Nigerian big man Chris Obekpa, shooting guard Abdoulaye Harouna (Niger), Chudier Bile (South Sudan) and American point guard Alex Robinson in their line-up, ABC look like they will serve up some mouth-watering basketball.

Mills spoke glowingly about the value add of Ivorian international Konaté and the newcomers to the team.

“When I was recruiting for ABC, my priority was to sign players of high character. The four players that we brought in, Abdoulaye Harouna, Chris Obekpa, Chudier Bile and Alex Robinson, fit that mould and are defence-orientated. You can’t win at the BAL if you do not have players who can play defence,” said Mills. “Having a leader like Stéphane Konaté is an honour and a pleasure. His experience and leadership made my arrival as a coach seamless. He is also the bridge between the players and the coaches.

“The chemistry that we have built in the short time we have been together is because of him.”

**Stephane Konate’s leadership according to Liz Mills has been pivotal for ABC. Picture: FIBA**

ABC are in the Sahara Conference group along with last year’s champions US Monastir (Tunisia). AS Douanes (Senegal), Kwara Falcons (Nigeria), Rwanda Energy Group and Stade Malien (Mali) complete the group.

Looking at the Sahara Conference, the favourites to make it out of the group would be Monastir. After that, it’s left to the other four teams to battle it out for the remaining three playoff spots.

Mills also agreed that ABC’s group is a fairly open one.

“You have to respect that Monastir are the defending champions. But what makes this Conference exciting is that it is an open race. I think you might see some upsets in this group. Some teams are already talking about titles. For us, our first target is the playoffs,” said Mills, whose team takes on Douanes on opening night.

“We are excited to kick off the season against the hosts. We expect a great crowd. Also, there is a rivalry between the Ivorians and Senegalese, so it will make things interesting. We are confident heading into that game.”

As Mills plots ABC’s path to restoration, she knows that when the curtains open for BAL season three, only victory can return the giant Ivorian club to the continental map.

* To see fixtures click here

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