Malta’s current basketball champions, VisitMalta Starlites Naxxar Basketball Club, have just confirmed its participation in the FIBA Europe Cup 2024/25. This marks a significant milestone as it has been over 32 years since a Maltese basketball club has competed in this prestigious tournament.
VisitMalta Starlites Naxxar have dominated the BOV Malta National League for the past three consecutive years, solidifying the club’s status as the reigning champions. The club’s consistent performance and dedication have paved the way for this exciting opportunity on the European stage.
Starlites Naxxar Basketball Club, boasts one of the largest basketball nurseries on the island, with over 250 participants at the mini-basket level. Since its inception, the club has been a formidable competitor in the National Seniors’ League, participating in both Division 1 and Division 2. This season marks the 25th year anniversary from the establishment of the Starlites Naxxar Junior sector.
The club’s journey from its formation to becoming national champions and now competing in the FIBA Europe Cup is a testament to the hard work and commitment of its players, coaches, committee members and supporters. As VisitMalta Starlites prepare to represent Malta in the upcoming season, they carry with them the hopes and pride of the Maltese basketball community.
The announcement was held at Ta’ Qali Main basketball Sports Pavillion, where VisitMalta Starlites Naxxar will be competing when playing home.
During the announcement, Visit Malta Starlites Naxxar BC President Dr Ivan Riolo highlighted,”This is a monumental achievement for our club and for Maltese basketball. Competing in the FIBA Europe Cup provides our players with new opportunities to develop their skills and gain experience at a higher level. We are grateful for the support from our sponsors, fans, families, and the entire basketball community. We look forward to representing Malta with pride and determination.”
Malta Basketball Association President Mr Paul Sultana said that praised Starlites Basketball Club for this achievement and commended their achievement this year. Mr Sultana mentioned that it is surely a positive thing that more interest is being shown from Basketball Clubs in Malta to compete in International Competitions such as the one mentioned today.
VisitMalta Chief Executive Officer, Carlo Micallef said “Our goal at VisitMalta is to promote our Islands abroad through different initiatives that are finely targeted to reach the audience we wish to attract to Malta and Gozo as tourists. Sports has become an important vehicle with which we deliver our marketing message. We are proud to be supporting Starlites Basketball Club as they embark on this historic journey. We are committed to supporting their endeavours and are confident that they will make Malta proud in the FIBA Europe Cup.”
Commenting on this achievement and confirmation of participation, Minister for Tourism Clayton Bartolo said, “I am thrilled to see Visit Malta Starlites Naxxar Basketball Club representing Malta in the FIBA Europe Cup. This achievement not only highlights the talent and dedication within our sports community but also enhances Malta’s profile on the international stage. We are proud to support our champions as they take on this new challenge and showcase our nation’s potential.”
The Minister for Education and Sport, Clifton Grima said, “This is a proud moment for Maltese basketball and sports in general. VisitMalta Starlites Naxxar’ participation in the FIBA Europe Cup will provide our players with invaluable experience and exposure at a European level. It is a testament to the progress we are making in nurturing young talent and promoting sports excellence in our country.”
Visit Malta Starlites Naxxar BC is proudly supported by Visit Malta, Sport Malta and Teamsport, and JSD.
