Thetford Academy Shapes Canadian Talent with American Play

For more than twelve years, the Thetford Academy has been shaping the next generation of basketball talent in Canada. Founded with the mission to offer elite training, strong academic support, and a pathway to higher-level competition, the academy has become a national reference for player development. Now in its second season competing near or at the top of New England prep Power 5 AA conference, the program is showcasing just how far Canadian basketball has come.

Located in Thetford Mines, Canada, the academy has built its reputation on a holistic approach: world-class coaching, year-round development, advanced strength and conditioning, and an educational structure designed to prepare student-athletes for post-secondary success. Over the years, multitude of graduates have gone on to play in NCAA programs, U Sports, and professional leagues worldwide.

Armel Mampouya has built a reputation as one of the most respected coaches in the nation, and his journey to the top is a testament to discipline, perseverance, and a deep passion for the game. A former professional player in France, Mampouya brought home not only high-level experience but also a strong understanding of what it takes to compete and succeed at the international level.

Now in his 10th year as head coach of the Thetford National team, he continues to shape the program with the same principles that guided his playing career. Known for his rigorous approach, Mampouya emphasizes discipline, hard work, and consistency—values that have become the foundation of the team’s identity under his leadership.

The 2025-26 team has a young roster with some veteran players returning from last season. 

#4 Nolan Diba (2027) 6’4, 200 lbs guard - From Ottawa, ON. Diba's season was cut short last December after a sudden knee injury. Now, after a full year of rehabilitation, he is ready to make his long-awaited return. Diba is a major force for the team — a versatile scorer who can put the ball in the basket at all three levels, and a strong, reliable presence on the defensive end. His comeback is expected to have an immediate impact, bringing energy, depth, and leadership back to the roster.

#5 Thierry Paul (2028) 5’8, 175 lbs guard - From Montreal, QC, Paul enters his first year with the Thetford program ready to build on the strong foundation he has already established. Paul is known not just for his energy and competitiveness, but for the unselfish style of play that sets him apart on the court. A true pass-first guard, Thierry consistently looks to elevate his teammates before seeking his own scoring opportunities.

#7 Odry Bonapart (2028) 6’4, 190 lbs guard - From Cayenne, French Guyana, a guard with a rare blend of explosiveness, strength, and court awareness, Bonapart is quickly emerging as a name to watch. His physical gifts alone set him apart, but it is his discipline and upward trajectory that truly hint at a promising future in the game. Standing at guard size but possessing the vertical power of a forward, Bonapart excels at creating advantages on both ends of the floor. Offensively, he thrives in transition, where his acceleration allows him to outrun defenders and finish through contact. His first step is devastating, and once he gets downhill, he becomes almost impossible to stop without sending him to the foul line.

#8 Noah Félix (2028) 6’0, 175 lbs guard - From Repentigny, QC, Felix is a point guard who brings a rare blend of athleticism, decision-making, and shooting ability to the floor. He stands out for his basketball IQ. He consistently makes smart decisions—whether it's reading the defense on pick-and-rolls, finding open teammates, or knowing when to take control offensively. His calm approach and vision help keep the offense organized and efficient.

#9 Samuel Sandé-Kanga (2029) 5’9, 170 lbs guard - From Cayenne, French Guyana. Sandé-Kanga has proven himself to be a strong and dependable point guard, fully embracing his role as a backup. Even without being in the starting lineup, he approaches every game and practice with professionalism, discipline, and determination. His commitment to the team’s success is evident in the energy he brings on the court, his smart decision-making, and his willingness to step up whenever needed.

#10 Princeton Ferdinand (2027) 6’5, 175 lbs guard - From Blainville, QC, Ferdinand quickly built a reputation as one of the most reliable defensive players on the floor. His intensity, awareness, and commitment to shutting down opponents make him a central piece of his team’s strategy. Whether he’s contesting shots, rotating to help a teammate, or disrupting passing lanes, Ferdinand consistently shows that defense is where he excels. 

#11 Amani Félix (2028) 6’4, 170 lbs guard - From Cayenne, French Guyana, Félix is the kind of player who stands out the moment he steps on the court. His offensive game is defined by a smooth, natural scoring ability—he gets to his spots effortlessly and knows how to create his own shot. Whether he’s attacking off the dribble or pulling up from mid-range, Félix plays with a calm confidence that makes his scoring look easy. What truly elevates his value is his versatility on the defensive end. Able to guard positions 1 through 4, he brings length, mobility, and discipline to every matchup.

#12 Sairic Birba (2028) 6’6, 190 lbs forward - From Cayenne, French Guyana, Birba is now in his second year with Thetford, and he has become noticeably more confident compared to last season. His growth is evident both on and off the field, and he has emerged as one of the team’s top scorers. His consistency, determination, and improved decision-making have made him a key offensive asset. We are excited to see how he continues to develop and contribute throughout the year.

#14 Insa Sané (2026) 6’8, 210 lbs forward - From France, whether defending against his opponents or contributing to the attack, Sané demonstrates relentless effort and determination. His commitment is evident in every play, as he consistently disrupts the opposition defensively while also creating opportunities offensively. This dual impact makes him a pivotal player for his team.

#15 Léonel Mbouenangi (2028) 6’1, 185lbs guard - From Quebec City, QC,Mbouenangi stands out for a different reason: his maturity on the court. Despite his young age, he already plays with the composure and discipline of a seasoned professional. What sets him apart is a rare combination of lockdown defense and a reliable mid-range jumper.

#23 Sowan Prepont (2029) 6’6, 190 lbs forward - From Cayenne, French Gyana, Prepont is an emerging basketball prospect whose blend of size, length, and athletic ability makes him a compelling guard at the next level. Known for his versatility on both ends of the floor, Prepont has demonstrated the skill set and physical tools that college programs look for. His development and on-court potential have not gone unnoticed. Prepont has reportedly drawn interest from both low-major and high-major NCAA programs, a testament to his growing reputation and upside. As he continues to polish his guard skills—particularly shooting consistency and decision-making

#24 Isaac Riahi (2026) 6’2, 185 lbs shooting guard - From Laval, QC, Riahi is quickly earning recognition as one of the most reliable perimeter shooters. Known for his smooth release and unwavering confidence from long range, Riahi has established himself as a true threat from beyond the arc. Defensively, he brings impressive versatility, capable of guarding positions 1 through 3 with discipline and intensity.

#30 Noah Fleurentin (2030) 6’0, 165 lbs guard - From Montreal, QC, Fleurentin is a baller—capable of getting to the rim whenever he wants. His explosiveness off the dribble makes him nearly impossible to contain, and defenders constantly struggle to stay in front of him. Whether he’s breaking down the defense with a quick first step or powering through contact, Fleurentin consistently finds his way to the basket. His confidence, control, and ability to finish in traffic make him a standout threat every time he touches the ball.