Shillong, Jul 17: Touchline Basketball Academy’s Under-18 Girls Team departed this week for Thailand to compete in the International Youth Basketball Championship (IYBC) 2026, one of Asia’s premier youth tournaments.
The team left on July 20 and will feature in the championship scheduled from July 24 to 28. The participation comes as the academy marks its 10th anniversary, and officials said the tour is a significant milestone in its effort to develop young basketball talent from Meghalaya.
The IYBC will bring together leading youth teams from across the world.
Touchline has been placed in a highly competitive preliminary group and will face teams from the United States, South Korea, Thailand, and Malaysia. The academy said the matches will expose players to different styles of play and to some of the strongest youth programmes in the region and beyond.
The squad underwent months of structured preparation that included technical training, tactical development, strength and conditioning, and competitive match play.
The championship forms part of the academy’s long-term vision of creating international exposure for athletes from the state.
The 12-member squad comprises Vanessa Nongsiang (17), Phinseinylla Hooroo (17), Dynna Marbaniang (18), Mebarikordor Suting (16), Shanessa Lyngdoh (16), Phibalari Kharmaw (16), Wankmenbiang Mawlong (16), Phiwankmen Mawlong (18), Nazareen Wahlang (17), Shirley Marbaniang (15), Ariana Lyngdoh Mawphlang (16), and Ewarika Basaiamoit (15).
Head Coach Andrew Suting and Assistant Coach Ucilia Pyngrope will lead the team.
They have overseen preparations over the last several months.
Speaking ahead of departure, Head of Academy Coach Sanjib Das said the tournament is an important opportunity for the players.
“This tournament is an incredible opportunity for our young athletes to test themselves against some of the best youth teams from around the world. Playing teams from the USA, South Korea, Thailand and Malaysia will challenge us both physically and mentally, and we are excited to represent Meghalaya with pride. Every game will be a learning experience that will contribute to the long-term growth of our players.”
Touchline Basketball Academy thanked parents, supporters, sponsors, donors, and well-wishers for their contributions that made the international campaign possible.
