Bank of Valletta (BOV) and the Malta Basketball Association have named their Basketball Players of the Month for October 2024. The three standout athletes—Darren Howard of Luxol, Mikaila Napoleon of Starlites, and Miguel Falzon, also from Starlites—have each made their mark in their respective leagues with impressive performances that have captured the attention of fans and peers alike.
Luxol’s latest addition, Darren Howard, has made an extraordinary impact in his debut season in Malta. The 6’2” guard, who joined from King University Tornadoes in the United States, has wasted no time asserting himself as a force to be reckoned with. Averaging a staggering 40.5 points per game over four matches, Howard not only demonstrated his scoring ability but also showcased a well-rounded skill set. With 34 rebounds, 27 assists, and 13 steals, Howard’s all-around contributions have been vital to Luxol’s success. His standout moment came with a triple-double performance against Athleta, a feat that highlighted his leadership and versatility on the court. Having played an average of 37 minutes per game, Howard has quickly become a cornerstone of his team’s lineup.
Over in the Women’s League, Starlites’ Mikaila Napoleon has been nothing short of dominant. Standing at 5’11”, the recent graduate of William Jessup University has seamlessly transitioned into the Maltese league, proving to be an invaluable player for her team. In October, Napoleon amassed 70 points across several games, averaging 23.3 points per game. But her influence wasn’t limited to scoring—she also grabbed 27 rebounds, demonstrating her ability to control the game on both ends of the floor. Her consistency and standout performances have firmly established her as one of the top players in the Women’s League and a key signing for Starlites this season.
In the BOV Amateur Division, it’s Miguel Falzon of Starlites who has been turning heads with his impressive play. The 5’8” point guard displayed excellent composure and skill, scoring 57 points over four games. His numbers also include 33 rebounds, 13 assists, and 14 steals, showcasing his ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game. One of his most remarkable achievements came during Starlites’ 92–80 victory over Pieta Tamaraw, where he went a perfect 12/12 from the free-throw line, demonstrating a rare level of consistency and nerve in high-pressure moments. His performances have earned him recognition as one of the rising stars of the Amateur Division.
The trio of athletes was celebrated for their exceptional contributions during a special ceremony held by the Bank of Valletta. Ernest Agius, the Chief Operations Officer of BOV, presented the winners with commemorative trophies in recognition of their outstanding performances. This year’s awards are even more special as both Bank of Valletta and the Malta Basketball Association are marking significant milestones—50 years of BOV’s support for local sports and 60 years of the Malta Basketball Association.
Bank of Valletta’s continued commitment to supporting local talent and promoting active lifestyles through sporting initiatives underscores the company’s role as a key partner in the development of basketball in Malta. As they celebrate these anniversaries, both BOV and the Malta Basketball Association reaffirm their dedication to nurturing young athletes and promoting the game across the island.
With the remarkable performances of players like Howard, Napoleon, and Falzon, it’s clear that the future of basketball in Malta is bright. These athletes not only represent the very best of what the game has to offer but also inspire others to pursue excellence in sports. As the basketball season continues, fans can look forward to more thrilling moments and inspiring performances from these stars, who are quickly becoming the faces of their respective teams and leagues.
The recognition of these outstanding players is a testament to the growing passion for basketball in Malta, and it’s a reminder of the importance of community support and the dedication of both the Bank of Valletta and the Malta Basketball Association in fostering a thriving sporting culture.
