Shillong, July 18: A 12-member Meghalaya girls’ basketball team will leave for Thailand on July 20 to compete in the International Youth Basketball Championship (IYBC) 2026, where it will face teams from the United States, South Korea, Thailand and Malaysia.
The tournament, scheduled from July 24 to 28, will bring together youth teams from several countries and is expected to provide the Meghalaya side with valuable international exposure against some of the region’s leading basketball programmes.
Representing Touchline Basketball Academy, the squad has been drawn in a challenging preliminary group featuring teams from the USA, South Korea, hosts Thailand and Malaysia, with each fixture expected to test the players against varying styles of play.
Moreover, the team has undergone several months of preparation leading up to the coveted youth basketball championship, with training focusing on technical skills, tactical awareness, physical conditioning and match practice ahead of the overseas assignment.
The travelling squad comprises Vanessa Nongsiang, Phinseinylla Hooroo, Dynna Marbaniang, Mebarikordor Suting, Shanessa Lyngdoh, Phibalari Kharmaw, Wankmenbiang Mawlong, Phiwankmen Mawlong, Nazareen Wahlang, Shirley Marbaniang, Ariana Lyngdoh Mawphlang and Ewarika Basaiamoit. Andrew Suting will coach the side, with Ucilia Pyngrope serving as assistant coach.
Speaking ahead of the team’s departure, Head of Academy Coach Sanjib Das said the tournament would provide the players with an opportunity to test themselves against quality international opposition.
“Playing against teams from the USA, South Korea, Thailand and Malaysia will be a challenge for our players. Every match will be a learning experience and help in their development,” Das said.
The Thailand tour also coincides with the academy’s 10th year and marks another opportunity for young basketball players from Meghalaya to compete on the international stage while gaining exposure to a higher level of competition.
