Basketball Belgium has made a high-profile appointment by naming Mike Thibault as the head coach of the Belgian Cats, succeeding Rachid Meziane. Thibault, a 74-year-old veteran of women’s basketball, brings a wealth of experience and an illustrious career to the position. His contract extends until the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, signaling a long-term commitment to the team’s growth and success.
A Legacy of Excellence
Thibault’s appointment comes after the remarkable achievements of his predecessor, Rachid Meziane, who guided the Belgian Cats to a historic gold medal at the 2023 European Championships and an Olympic bronze in Tokyo 2021. However, Meziane’s dual commitments as head coach of the Connecticut Sun in the WNBA made it unsustainable for him to continue with the national team.
Thibault, no stranger to international and professional success, is a proven winner. He holds the record for most victories as a WNBA coach (379), has been named WNBA Coach of the Year three times, and boasts an impressive resume that includes a 2019 WNBA title with the Washington Mystics alongside Belgian players Emma Meesseman and Kim Mestdagh. His international achievements are equally impressive, with Olympic gold medals in 2008 and 2024 as an assistant coach for Team USA, as well as a world title in 2022.
Building on Momentum
Thibault inherits a Belgian team in its prime, with key players at the peak of their careers. His arrival offers continuity in ambition and expertise, ensuring that the Cats remain contenders on the global stage. “I am honored to be the new coach of the Cats,” Thibault stated, emphasizing his determination to bring out the best in this talented group.
Immediate Challenges and Future Goals
Thibault’s first test comes quickly, with crucial European qualifiers against Azerbaijan and Lithuania next week. Victories in these matches would secure Belgium’s place at the European Championship in June, a stepping stone toward further international success. With a mix of experienced stars and rising talent, Thibault’s tenure promises exciting prospects for Belgian basketball.
Conclusion
Mike Thibault’s appointment signals Basketball Belgium’s intent to build on its recent successes and aim even higher. With his extensive experience and a roster of elite players, the Belgian Cats are well-positioned to remain a dominant force in women’s basketball, both in Europe and on the world stage. The countdown to the 2028 Olympics has begun, and with Thibault at the helm, the future looks bright for the Cats.
