(PRETORIA) Since arriving in South Africa for the U18 AfroBasket, the Zambia men’s team has been one of the vibrant teams at the tournament. From their excitement at their media day to how the Zambians sang in unison during pre-match training, they have soaked in every moment – in their tournament debut.
A day after his team’s memorable group stage victory over South Africa, coach Paul Mwale says his team is so upbeat because of the mantra they live by, boostele. The word is a fusion of English and the accentuation at the end.
“We thrive on what we call boostele. Boostele gets us in the mood (ahead of games) – it takes the fear out of us. We challenge each opponent that comes our way. So we are always upbeat because of that,” said Mwale. “We always want to be in a happy space and mood to be game-ready. Soccer and netball do the same. So this is our philosophy as a sports nation.
Mwale’s team has recorded a 1-1 record in the tournament, an opening Group C loss to Morocco (84-67) and a win (70-61) over the host nation, South Africa, which set off jubilant celebrations from the players and staff. On Monday, Zambia’s final game against Rwanda will hold the key to their destiny in the competition. The Zambian coach shared his thoughts on the first two games before delving into the final group battle against their East African opponents.
Against Morocco, Zambia chased the game but would eventually capitulate early in the fourth quarter. In a similar quarter against South Africa, this time in the final three minutes, Zambia held their nerve to get their first win of the tournament.
“The boys responded well, especially after the game against Morocco. We came out to play against South Africa. Now we have given ourselves a fighting chance going to the next game (against Rwanda),” said Mwale. “We used up a lot of energy on the defensive side against Morocco. Most of my key players burnt out, and the bench did not come to the fore. So, the bench needed to step up a little more. We did a little bit of that against South Africa.”
Mwale knows they have to maintain their discipline, especially in close games. So, a heart-to-heart discussion with his team ahead of the game against South Africa took place and it did the trick.
“We had long chats with players after the Morocco game… I think they understood the importance of maintaining the lead. For them to do that in the game against South Africa shows we are getting somewhere,” said Mwale. “It’s the first time these kids get to play at this level. So, with each game, there is a better understanding of what it means to play in a competition of this magnitude.”
Mwale also shared some insights he gathered for the crunch match against Rwanda. “They love to play a little fullcourt press. It’s been common (the fullcourt press) in this tournament and it’s something we have prepared for. What we need to do is execute our game plan and we will be ok,” said Mwale.
Also, some exciting prospects stepped up for Zambia in this tournament. Frank Siame, who ranks second in scoring (20.5 points per game), ninth in rebounding (9 rebounds per game) and sixth in rebounding (3.5 rebounds per game) has put his name on a pedestal.
There are also the likes of Kelvin Mulenga (14 points and four assists per game) and Kelvin Mulenga (10.5 points per game), who set the scene alight for their country at this tournament.
“I am really impressed with these kids… It shows they have a bright future ahead of them. They have taken the challenge and told themselves, ‘We are gonna lead this team’. And they are doing that well,” said Mwale. “Game after game they have proved that they can play hard and push Zambia to greater heights.”
Zambia’s team unity and fighting spirit have made them worthy of a place in this tournament. A win over Rwanda keeps their hopes alive and for the fans, it will be a chance to enjoy Zambia’s competitiveness and good vibes.
