Manyehlisa Lehohla - The Big Tip Off

Time for Cele and Sibanyoni to make the most of their careers

SAMKELO Cele and Nkosinathi Sibanyoni have established themselves as basketball stars in South Africa and Africa. The Cape Town Tigers duo have had an exceptional BAL Season 4 – especially from a statistical perspective.

Small forward Cele, who attended college in the US, plays with enthusiasm and energy on the court. He also exudes confidence and is not afraid of the big moment. In the quarter-final of Africa’s premier club competition against FUS Rabat, the tenacious Cele took it upon himself to make a contested buzzer-beater three. This sent the game to overtime, where the Tigers eventually won.

His boisterous celebrations after every highlight reel dunk or shot made with a degree of difficulty make Cele one of a kind in the South African game.

Samkelo Cele in action for the Tigers — **Samkelo Cele made it to the All-BAL Team and All-BAL Defensive Team this year. Pictures: FIBA and BAL**

Cele, one of two All-Americans from South Africa, has seen increases in some of his production this season compared to last year’s BAL. His points per game jumped from 13.5 to 21. His assists per game went slightly up from 2.5 to 2.7, while his steals per game shifted from 2.2 steals to 2.4. He also returned to the All-BAL Defensive team and debuted in the All-BAL First team.

Power forward, Sibanyoni is the polar opposite of Cele’s on-court persona, in that he quietly goes about his grind. Last season, with Rasheed Hazzard at the helm, Sibanyoni suffered a dip in minutes (9.4) and production (2.2 points per game and two rebounds). It comes against the backdrop of the 26-year-old, averaging 21.7 minutes per game, 4.6 points per game and 7.2 rebounds per game in his BAL debut (in 2022).

Under Florsheim Ngwenya this year, Sibanyoni has thrived, posting 30.9 minutes per game, 9.4 points per game, 1.6 assists per game, 1.3 steals per game and 0.8 blocks per game.

But, the one aspect of his game – which saw a dramatic increase – is his rebounding, his strongest asset. The 2.08m big man, who ranked second behind South Sudan prodigy Khaman Malauch in crashing boards, averaged 12.4 rebounds per game. Sibanyoni also owns the BAL rebounding record after grabbing 25 boards vs FUS Rabat in the quarter-finals.

Part of the reason Cele and Sibanyoni had a successful BAL Season 4, especially in the playoffs, was the inclusion of point guard Dhieu Deing and big man Abdoulaye Ndoye. South Sudanese player – Deing, along with Cartier Diarra, took some of the scoring load and playmaking pressure off the shoulders of Cele. Ndoye provided rim protection and shot-blocking at the centre position, which allowed Sibanyoni to play his role at the four.

Nkosinathi Sibanyoni of the Tigers — **Nkosinathi Sibanyoni was ranked number 2 in rebounding in Season 4 of the BAL.**

The duo have had a career season for the Tigers and are still in the prime of their playing careers. Could it be time for the duo to expand their horizons beyond South Africa? Both players have spoken about this desire at different stages. Recently, Cele told Newzroom Afrika about his ongoing wish and dream to play in the NBA. But at 26, is there a market for his services in the elite league, or does Cele see himself playing in another league?

In Season 3 of the BAL, Sibanyoni told The Big Tip Off he wants to play outside of South Africa. “I have seen how guys play in other parts of the world, and I believe I have the potential to get where I want to be. It’s a matter of working on my game more and being able to advertise my ability,” said Sibanyoni. “In the next two to five years, I would like to see myself play in different countries and learn from other coaches and players. That way, I will mature as a player.”

In the troubled context of South African basketball, Sibanyoni and Cele have exceeded expectations. Given their career aspirations and exploits in the recently concluded BAL, both players are perfectly positioned to explore playing opportunities outside the country. Hopefully, with the right representation and advice, teams from lucrative leagues in Africa or elsewhere will line up for their services. It would be a just reward for their talents.

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Ngwenya reflects on amazing playoff run with Tigers

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FLORSHEIM Ngwenya is all about basketball. Even on his day off during the BAL playoffs, he was more preoccupied with the game than taking in some of Kigali’s sights and sounds.

The Cape Town Tigers have had days off between their quarter-final victory over FUS Rabat and their semi-final loss to Petro de Luanda. After those two gruelling overtime games, you would think Ngwenya, the Tigers’ coach, would have a moment for a breather. And you would be mistaken. Ngwenya, the South African national team coach, described himself as a “gym rat who likes everything to do with basketball. He believes the slightest of distractions can bring about bad luck.

“I stay focused because I am a bit superstitious. I don’t want to get out there being all over the show and forget what is important. If there is a free day, we will be together as a team and maybe go to the museum and stuff like that,” said Ngwenya. “… But I mostly like to dig in and watch games. I am what you call a gym rat. I love the gym and basketball. Another thing I do is dig up old videos of teams out here and see how they play.

“I have also engaged with other coaches here (at the BAL). I want to learn from them and see what they do well. When I am here I keep it as basketball-focused as possible, but I have done the odd sight seeing here and there.”

Florsheim Ngwenya at the BAL — **Florsheim Ngwenya says the semi-final run of the Tigers ranks among his top achievements. Pictures: The BTO**

Despite falling short in the semi-finals, Ngwenya’s focus and graft during those rest days have paid off for the Tigers. Ahead of the Hoopers game on Friday, Ngwenya, an assistant to Rasheed Hazzard in last year’s tournament, spoke on leading the team this year.

“I think it’s a lesson for a lot of young coaches and it is if you get a chance you can achieve. Your background should not count against you. If you are qualified and can do the job, especially as a local coach, why not get the job and showcase your skills at the international level?” asked Ngwenya. “It’s just a testament to the saying ‘hard work pays off’. So, teams should try and invest in their local coaches. There is a lot of talent within that pool of coaches out there and they need to be given an opportunity to show what they can do on stages like this. Or whichever stage you need somebody to back you.”

Ngwenya reflected on how the Tigers have grown since their first BAL tournament and in these playoffs, especially in battles against FUS and Petro. “Those overtime games showed us, firstly, the maturity of the team and second, the togetherness, which spoke volumes about who we are.

“It’s a sense of brotherhood that has developed and has become a never-give-up attitude on the court. In the quarter-final game (against FUS) – we could have won in regulation time, but we let ourselves down with a couple of errors. But we kept on fighting and eventually won the game.”

The Tigers coach turned to Wednesday’s game against Petro: “Last night’s game we did not play as well as we should have, but we still managed to fight. We showed resilience and grit to take the game to overtime. Even then, we fought, but we had a poor shooting night. We shot around 20 or 21 per cent from the three-point line, and I think we missed 16 free throws. Those little things built up, but I must commend our fight and resilience.”

One of the stand-out features of the playoffs was the superb performances of Samkelo Cele and Nkosinathi Sibanyoni. Power forward Sibanyoni has averaged a double-double in games against FUS and Petro, while Cele continued his impressive scoring feats (30 points against FUS and 19 points against Petro).

Ngwenya is proud of the South African superstar duo as both players have enhanced their reputations on the continent.

“I’m so proud of those guys. Very proud. They really work hard and push themselves to the limit. They also want to achieve more. These guys are an example for young South African players out there. They see what they (Sibanyoni and Cele) are doing on this stage and will want aspire to be like them or even be better than them,” said Ngwenya.

“It sits well with me that two South African kids are doing well. Also they are being spoken about in that manner (as superstars). It also shows there is a lot of talent in our country. We have to make sure that we take care of it… Ensure they get perform on such stages,” said Ngwenya.

On a personal level, what does getting this far (to the semi-final) mean for Ngwenya? “It’s right up there. I can’t downplay it. After the game against Hoopers, we will see where it stands in my list of achievements. But it is right up there. There is no question about it,” concluded Ngwenya.

The Tigers eventually finished fourth, losing to the Hoopers on Friday night. But Ngwenya and the Tigers will surely return home with a redeemed sense of pride, knowing they could hang with the best on the continent.

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Diarra and Tigers find a new swag ahead of Petro battle

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THE Cape Tigers Town have not let their wild card qualification for BAL playoffs go to waste. The South African team has gone on a mini-dream run in Kigali and they look like a team that has risen from the rubble of a forgettable Kalahari Conference two months ago.

After their seeding game loss to Libya’s Al Ahly Benghazi, it would have been easy to count out the Tigers from being BAL title contenders. Instead, the Tigers continue to be the authors of their own story. They grappled and ground out a (91-88) victory over FUS Rabat, a team that clinically dealt with them in two Kalahari Conference battles.

Today (Wednesday), another Kalahari Conference adversary, Petro de Luanda lies in wait. And with Tigers having discovered their roar, this semi-final duel should be one for the ages.

Cartier Diarra in action — **Cartier Diarra will lead the Tigers’ charge against Petro in the BAL semi-finals tonight. Picture: The BTO**

Before speaking on the clash against Petro, a hopeful Tigers captain, Cartier Diarra, felt they should have beaten FUS by a wider margin, given how they stifled the Moroccans.

“When I look back at the game against FUS, we should have at least won by 15 points. We missed free throws, lost a ten-point lead with two minutes left, and it was not a great shooting night for us. But we still got the win. It was a show of effort and determination to win,” said Diarra, who has Malian roots. “Of course, Nathi (Nkosinathi Sibanyoni) had 14 offensive rebounds, which allowed us to get second-chance points. That is why I feel hopeful. Also, we look at this journey as the right pathway for us to get revenge on the teams that beat us in Pretoria (where the Kalahari Conference took place). Now we will play Petro. They beat us once, and we beat them, so this is the tie-breaker.”

The Tigers had five players scoring in double digits against FUS. Nkosinathi Sibanyoni, who crashed a record 25 boards in that game, scored 16 points. Samkelo Cele, who dropped a three-point buzzer-beater that sent the game into overtime, had a massive 30 points. South Sudanese duo Ngor Mayang (13) and Dhieu Deing (12) also made solid contributions.

Diarra, who scored 15 points and had eight assists, says Sibanyoni got them going against FUS. He also recalled how Cele’s heroics kept them alive.

“It started with Nathi. I have already spoken about what rebounding did for us. He was running in transition and forcing people to guard him, which put our shooters in a position to get open looks. So he was our focal point,” said Diarra. “Sam is always ultra-aggressive going to the basket, whether you foul him or not. He hit that big shot with seconds left. It was either him or me taking that shot. When he got the ball, I knew he would make the shot.

“The way he shoots is so amazing. He has a high release, which is difficult to block. He did a double clutch pump – he said it felt so good he wanted to turn around. We are just happy he got the shot.”

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Diarra and the Tigers have had two extra days after their exploits on Sunday. They look forward to taking on a Petro team that overcame a 20-point fourth-quarter deficit against Senegal’s AS Douanes on Monday.

It must be said, that the Angolans have looked shaky from the beginning of the Kalahari Conference, and the Tigers would be justified in fancying themselves to win the game.

Also, it would be safe to say the Tigers and Petro are evenly matched ahead of their semi-final clash, but Diarra disagrees.

“I don’t believe we are evenly matched. I think we have better guards and bigs. They play well in their system because they have been together for a long time. However, I think we have the advantage,” said Diarra.

“I know (Childe) Dundao will be guarding me. I feel like he is too small. That’s how we won the last time, with me being aggressive on him and putting him in tight situations – it forced their bigs to help. Samkelo also played great defence on Carlos (Morais) last time, holding him scoreless. We need him to do that again.”

Diarra intimated further on the advantages the Tigers have over their last four opponents: “I know they added Nick (Faust), who scored 13 last night. We need to stop him from having that run. If we minimise their ability to get threes and force them to go for layups, a big like AB (Abdoulaye Ndoye) will be able to stop them because of his length. He had five blocks in the last game. I feel like we have the advantage. All we have to do is execute and do what we do best.”

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Nouhi carving his own path, inspired by his father

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AYOUB Nouhi did not need to look far for inspiration when he decided basketball would be his first love. The inspiration was in front of him in the form of his father – a former professional player.

Nouhi, like his father Hassan, has gone on to carve out a career of his own. He’s played on the 3X3 circuit, college basketball in the United States, and joined a professional team in his country of birth, Belgium.

The 25-year-old, now playing for FUS Rabat, current champion of the elite Division Excellence in Morocco, says he grew up watching his father, who was also his “first coach”.

“I started playing basketball because of my dad. He was a professional basketball player. I remember going to watch his games when I was as young as five years old. He is a big inspiration and a source of motivation. He was my first coach. My dad is the main reason I play basketball,” said Nouhi.

While Nouhi’s father laid the foundation, the 2017 U18 3X3 World Cup tournament in China set Ayoub up for an opportunity of a lifetime.

Ayoub Nouhi in action for FUS — **Ayoub Nouhi was a factor in FUS Rabat’s successful qualification for the BAL. Pictures: The BTO**

Nouhi led Belgium to victory in the competition and finished as tournament MVP. There was one more surprise! The tournament in China would be the gateway for then-17-year-old Nouhi to achieve his dream of playing college basketball in the United States.

“One of the coaches was watching, and he really liked my game. He asked me to come to the college (University of Texas at Arlington) for a visit. During that visit, I practiced with the team and got a feel for the environment,” said Nouhi. “The visit was great. They loved me and loved my game. It was awesome being there.”

Nouhi, who spent two years at Arlington, says the moment he received the news of a scholarship offer almost brought him to tears.

“Man! I remember it vividly. I was so, so happy. It had been my dream since I was a kid. I have always wanted to play college basketball. I almost cried when they told me they offered me a scholarship. It was a big accomplishment for me and it was the beginning of yet another chapter of my basketball story,” said Nouhi.

He described the exposure to basketball in the United States as “tough” and “intense”.

“At first, it was hard because the intensity of the practices and the workouts in America are things I had not prepared for. You wake up at 6 a.m. to get ready for conditioning practice. You have your breakfast and then class. After that, there is individual workout and class again, followed by team practice,” said Nouhi. “It’s intense, but I think it makes everybody mentally tough. That experience groomed both as a player and person.”

When COVID-19 hit, Nouhi decided to cut his college career short because of the uncertainty of the NCAA season. He joined his first professional team (Circus Brussels) in Belgium before heading to Morocco.

“I signed my first professional contract during the first year of COVID because we did not know if the college season would continue. It was a tough transition (joining the pros) because although I was used to a European style of play, I had adapted to the American way. Then I had to re-adjust to Europe play again,” said Nouhi. “It was definitely a good experience getting the opportunity to play against grown men in the game. It was a little physical, and I had to play smarter.

“In my second season with Brussels, I got a back injury, so I missed most of the season. After that, I felt I needed a change, and that’s when I had the opportunity to sign with AS Sale (in Morocco) last year. At the time, they were also competing in the Road To BAL. Unfortunately, we did not make it, but it was a great experience. I loved it. So, I decided to stay a little longer in Morocco.”

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Nouhi, who is now wearing the colours of FUS Rabat, has not let the second chance to make it to the Basketball Africa League (BAL) go to waste. He says the journey to the continental tournament was difficult.

“The first thing that comes to mind is that the Road To BAL is getting tougher each year. When I looked at it three years ago, the level was not that high, including that of the imports. I think we did not make it (with Sale) because we thought it would be easy,” said Nouhi, who put solid numbers in last year’s Road To BAL (11 points per game, 3.5 rebounds per game and 3.3 assists per game). “Last year’s qualifiers had players like Solo Diabate, Ater Majok and Zach Lofton, something which had not happened before. Thankfully, we (FUS) recruited well, and with players like Aliou (Diarra) and Jonathan (Jordan), it led to our success and we qualified for the BAL.”

**Ayoub Nouhi believes FUS Rabat has right attitude to win the BAL.**

Nouhi and FUS have had an impressive BAL debut and finished top of the Kalahari Conference in South Africa with a 3-1 record. They also made a strong statement with a win over Petro de Luanda on opening day in March. While the Moroccan club surprised many, Nouhi says their outstanding results boiled to their preparation.

“Honestly, we were happy, but we were not surprised. We worked hard for that moment (to beat Petro). Our win was seen as an upset by many because of Petro’s popularity but we were locked in and ready,” said Nouhi.

FUS have remained locked in during the playoffs in Kigali and caused yet another upset by humbling reigning champions Al Ahly (Egypt) on Friday. Speaking ahead of that game (against Al Ahly), Nouhi said they dotted their i’s and crossed the t’s for the seeding clash.

“Ahly won it last year. They need no introduction. But anything can happen in the BAL. We have a good chance because of our preparation. We have scouted them, so all that’s left is to go out there fight,” said Nouhi.

From an outsider’s perspective, FUS look like a serious contender for the BAL title, but do they believe they can bring a continental club trophy to Morocco since AS Sale did it in 2017?

“We have the same coach who won it that year (Said el Bouzidi). We have four or five players from that team. So we are a team with experience and a winning mentality. Everybody here wants to win,” concluded Nouhi.

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Pedro talks BAL playoffs and the pursuit of a new challenge

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JONE Pedro took time to cosy up to basketball despite having a direct line to the game. The fact that his father played the game at the highest level for Angola, did not mean that the sport would be an automatic first choice for Jone.

The Petro de Luanda player had dabbled in other sports until certain shifts in his life drove him to basketball. He experienced a growth spurt which led to him leaning in on the legacy and later the birth of his younger sister hit him with a dose of maturity.

Pedro, now 34, also explained to The Big Tip Off how his second pro stint in Angola shaped his character and after having enjoyed success at the club level, he is now looking beyond.

Jone, the son of former Angolan player Adriano Pedro, says it was in Germany that he started gravitating towards basketball.

“Sometimes the ball gets put in your hands because of your family, but in my case, it was me witnessing. So, seeing what my dad was doing at a young age, subconsciously drew me to the game later in life,” says Pedro.

“My dad played Portugal and later in Germany, where I grew up. When we moved there (Germany), I got exposed to several sports, of course, soccer being the main one. I also played ping-pong,” said Pedro. “By the time I was 13 or 14, I began to notice the height difference because I was not always tall. That is when I decided to try basketball – when I was 14.”

**Jone Pedro says the Kalahari Conference was exciting from a fan perspective, but disappointing because of Petro’s results. Pictures: The BTO**

Early on, Pedro would have a love-hate relationship with the game. The main reason for his early struggle was his approach toward the game.

“When I started, I was playing for fun. When I switched clubs from my home city (Aachen) to Leverkusen, I still had the same attitude until I realised other players were being pushed instead of me. So I quit,” said Pedro. “When I turned 19, I came to Angola because my dad felt I was not being productive. I spent a season playing in Angola for a team in Lubango (Desportivo de Huila).

“I didn’t like it much because I had grown up in Germany, and it (Lubango) was a different reality. So, after a year, I returned to Germany.”

While in Germany, his sister, already born and growing, made Pedro realise he had different decisions to make. He had to be more serious about his game. Pedro joined then-fourth-tier club Giants Dusseldorf, who went undefeated that season (2011-2012). His successful stint there stint led to a move to Pro A team Gladiators Treves (known as TBB Trier).

“The birth of my sister motivated me to take basketball seriously. By the time she was around three or four, I began to look at the game the right way. I made the decision to pursue a professional career and I have never looked back,” said Pedro.

The big man has also adopted a mature outlook on life during his 10-year stay in Angola, where he started out for ASA (Atletico Sport Aviacao) and Primeiro de Agosto. While domestic basketball in the Southern African nation had not reached the desired level professionally, Pedro was unfazed by the situation.

“As far as professionalism goes, it was a step back, but because of who I was back then, it was a step up. I was up for the challenge (of playing in Angola), and whatever difficulty I might have, I would embrace it because I could not behave the way I did before. ‘Like, ok, things are not going well here, I quit,” said Pedro. “It was time for me to challenge myself… Find motivation to get through the league and season.”

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Apart from growing as an individual, Pedro’s decade in Angola would also yield success on the court. He won two league championships with Primeiro and four with his current club, Petro. It has led to Pedro feeling the time has come for a new career challenge.

“I come from different habits. I grew up among different African communities in Germany – Ghanaian, Congolese and Guineans. It (Angola) was challenging. It was new, provocative, fun and harsh… A real mix of everything,” said Pedro. “This was a lesson of life. I am happy I made it through while staying sane and being true to myself. I am happy because it was worth it.

“But I think it is important to know when it is time for a new challenge. I am in a position to choose whatever offer may come.”

Pedro played his cards close to his chest on his next move. It is understandable as his gaze is on the Basketball Africa League (BAL) playoffs in Kigali, Rwanda. Despite making it through the Kalahari Conference in South Africa, Petro struggled – their 2-2 record saw the Angolan giants sever ties with Brazilian coach Jose Neto.

While the on-court struggles of Petro were laid bare, Pedro says South Africa was a great setting to start the BAL Season 4.

“Going to South Africa was amazing. It was amazing. It’s the perfect location. The culture there is nice. There was a welcoming atmosphere. And the vibe was just different. It felt like we were in the States, but as far as the team goes, we were on the brink of mental exhaustion,” said Pedro. “When you are used to winning, it becomes hard to stay motivated. It was difficult for us to bring our A-game. So, I think it was time for change, and I don’t mean Neto leaving.

“I don’t think we performed at 70 per cent of our ability. It was a disaster. I am being straight up. It was obvious that Petro was not Petro. But we made it through.”

Jone Pedro in action Petro — **Jone Pedro says Petro will have a different posture for the BAL season 4 playoffs.**

Spaniard Sergio Valdeolmillos is the new coach and recently led Petro to a 16th league title. Under him, Pedro feels there has been accountability. According to Pedro, there is a new energy ahead of their clash against US Monastir, a team they lost to in the 2022 BAL final.

“Now that we have a new coach, there is a new mentality. He is doing what needs to be done. He is holding every player accountable. We are more aggressive and physical. We’ve been practising like crazy. It’s unbelievable,” said Pedro. “So I just have to believe in the process. We are here for a reason. The team is ready (for the BAL playoffs).

“What I can guarantee is that the posture of Petro is going to be different during the playoffs.”

As he winds down the season with Petro, Pedro is thankful for his existence and what it has served, but there is a craving for a little more.

“Finding my purpose (in life). That has been a great inspiration for me. There’s a difference between what you need to do and what you want to do. For me, I decided I wanted to play basketball and go as far as I can to help and provide for my family,” said the former Angolan international. “And it changes. My sister is about to turn 18, so she is not that cutie that used to motivate me. You always find a new chapter. It can be recovering from an injury or winning a championship. Maybe doubt creeps up, and you question if you won it. So you have to prove yourself again.”

No doubt Pedro and his teammates will have to prove their championship credentials in these BAL playoffs. They are well acquainted with the disappointment of losing and the sweet taste of victory. Hopefully, Pedro can again experience the latter feeling – this time at the continental level. After that, he can ponder on his future.

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Thunder rocking Kenya and eyeing continental participation

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DURING the Cape Town Tigers’ match against FUS Rabat two weeks ago, three men quietly walked into the Sunbet Arena clad in the colours of Kenya’s super club, Nairobi City Thunder.

Sitting courtside at the BAL Kalahari Conference match, the men surveyed the scene, making mental notes of the setting they hope to see their club participate in next year. The Thunder, who came under new ownership last year, have caused raptures in the East African country’s basketball landscape.

Colin Rasmussen, founder and CEO of Twende Sports INC (the company that owns Nairobi City Thunder), Stephen Domingo (co-founder and head of basketball operations of Twende) and team coach Bradley Ibs, who were in South Africa for a couple of days, are spearheading the Thunders’ pursuit for a place in the BAL.

Rasmussen, born in the US but raised in Pakistan, has called Kenya home for the last 11 years. The lifelong hooper has been active in the basketball scene of that country.

“I love basketball and I am passionate about it. Throughout my time there (Nairobi) I have been involved in the basketball scene. I have built courts and been active in the game from a recreational perspective,” says Rasmussen.

The formation of Twende, which means ” let’s go” in Swahili, has helped Rasmussen and partners do their bit to help transform basketball in Kenya.

“Last year, I decided with my business partners to start Twende Sports – a company dedicated to building the basketball ecosystem and promoting the sport,” said Rasmussen, who is from the streetball circuit. “We believe this is also a unique moment for Africa with the NBA investing in the continent. We are now seeing some of the best players in the world coming from Africa.

“The game is growing on the continent, and we want to support that.”

American-born Domingo has family ties to Nigeria and had the honour of captaining the West African nation’s team during the 2021 Afrobasket in Rwanda.

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The 28-year-old former Georgetown Hoyas player says he was searching for ways to give back to basketball on the continent. That is when he met Rasmussen.

“It’s been important for me to figure out how to reinvest in basketball on the continent. Colin and I met in 2022 before I graduated (with an MBA). He was working on another venture. Our focus has been working to grow the game in Kenya, East Africa and we want to achieve success on the continent,” said Domingo.

Rasmussen continued in a similar vein as Domingo. He feels the existence of the BAL has changed the game on the continent, and the aim is for the Thunder to compete at that level.

“I felt this is basketball’s moment with the Basketball Africa League. It’s a new platform, and we aspire to have the best team in Africa. We want to prove that through the BAL,” said Rasmussen. “We have created a professional team, which is a first for Kenya because club basketball there has been recreational. It is a professional environment with contracts for players, with long-term commitments to them, and a proper training environment that enables the existing talent to go to the next level.”

Acquiring top talents like Ariel Okall, Ariel Ortega, Faheem Juma, Fidel Okoth, Griffin Ligare, and Albert Odero has made the club a force. The six Thunder players were also part of the Kenya Morans team that played in the 2025 AfroBasket qualifiers in February.

Rasmussen stressed the importance of supporting the national team.

“Our goal is to elevate the game of basketball. Our investment also supports the national team and the ecosystem in Kenya. So, we encourage our players to be part of the national team,” said Rasmussen. “It also benefits us, because it puts the players on the next level platform.”

**Stephen Domingo captained the Nigeria national team at the 2021 AfroBasket in Rwanda.**

While Kenyan players are the core of the Thunder, Domingo highlighted the importance of tapping into the expatriate communities for talent.

“Any good roster has a thesis behind it. Ours is that the Kenyan players are the backbone of the team. There is also a large South Sudanese population in Nairobi. Within that community are talented players who are looking for opportunities… So, it’s talent we should not lose out on,” said Domingo.

Rasmussen and Domingo are on track to fulfilling their ambition for the Nairobi-based club. The undefeated Thunder, who have a 16-0 record in the Kenya Basketball League (KBL), are on course to finish top. With a place in the KBL playoffs guaranteed, the goal is to win the league and set themselves on the path to the pinnacle of African club basketball.

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Benmhine and FUS brace for energy sapping period

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MONDAY marked the beginning of Ramadan (10 March – 9 April) for followers of the Islamic faith, and FUS Rabat player Soufiane Benmhine is no different.

Benmhine has played during the holy month in his home country Morocco, but he says the Basketball Africa League (BAL) could be different.

It’s because the league, which tipped off in South Africa last Saturday with the Kalahari Conference, has intense back-to-back matches. During the off day on Monday, Benmhine says he and his FUS teammates do not know what to expect when play resumes on Tuesday.

“It’s a tough period because we are in competition, but the medical staff is doing a great job by making sure we don’t use too much energy during games,” said Benmhine. “This is the first day (Monday) of Ramadan… Fortunately, there were no games today. We only practised. But tomorrow (Tuesday), we will know how it feels.”

FUS Rabat's Soufiane Benmhine — **FUS Rabat coach Ali Bouzidi and Soufiane Benmhine will hope for a third win when they take on the Cape Town Tigers. Pictures: The BTO**

The shooting guard reflected on his process: “It’s not the first time I am playing during Ramadan. I am used to it. The first two to three days are tough because your body is adjusting. What is difficult is playing in such a competition because it’s a high level,” said the 31-year-old.

Tuesday night sees the undefeated Rabat take on the winless Cape Town Tigers, who have a 0-2 record.

Benhmine says they will approach the game against the Tigers with the same humility they did in their opening victory against Angola’s Petro de Luanda.

“As the coach said in the last press conference (after the game against Petro), ‘There is no easy game’. Our approach is to be confident, but that’s not enough, there is a job to be done,” said the Moroccan international, who scored 12 points against Petro in his and Rabat’s BAL debut. “We played against Petro and got the win. We also saw Cape Town play against Petro last night (Sunday), and it was not an easy game.

“They have a lot of talented players. So we are serious. We are preparing well for every game.”

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Being well-prepared for elite competition is always the expectation of Morocco’s most successful team. Benhmine, a long-serving player at the club, is proud to be a part of the 18-time Division Execellance champions and helping to contribute to its history.

“I have played for FUS for a long time. I began this journey with them six years ago. Finally, we have achieved one of our objectives. I am proud to be part of the FUS family,” said Benhmine. “The team’s management has done a great job and they continue to improve our conditions. Hopefully, we will continue to win championships.”

A win over the Tigers will put FUS in a position to reach the playoffs, and a good seeding could put them in a position to be a title contender.

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Dynamo’s Deing appreciates trial by fire journey to first BAL

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ONE thing you cannot accuse Dhieu Deing of is a lack of effort on the court. So, it’s understandable if he thought himself to be an unlucky player since turning pro.

The South Sudanese, whose professional career began on the continent with South Africa’s Cape Town Tigers, says the journey to experiencing his first Basketball Africa League as a player has been a trial by fire.

After a year and a few months, it is finally happening for Deing, who will suit up for Dynamo BBC, a team from the humble climes of Burundi. But looking back on his journey and production, Deing surely deserved to play sooner in the BAL.

His respectable 12.3 points per game, 4.3 rebounds per game, and six assists per game in the 2023 Road To BAL catapulted the Tigers to a second continental appearance. Sadly, Deing would suffer a gut punch as he never ended up featuring with the Tigers for BAL Season 3.

**Dhieu Deing has returned to South Africa to represent Dynamo at the BAL. Pictures: The BTO and FIBA**

Deing, who will help lead Dynamo’s BAL Kalahari Conference campaign, felt immense disappointment at not turning out for the Tigers last year. But he has grown to appreciate the non-linear journey to the elite club tournament.

“Definitely! At that time (with the Tigers), I was disappointed. I felt like all the work I had put in had gone to waste, but everything happens for a reason. All that has led to me being here today with Dynamo,” said the 22-year-old.

Before joining Dynamo for their Kalahari Conference journey in South Africa, Deing was on the roster of Tanzanian club Pazi for their 2024 Road To BAL campaign.

That journey would end in a dispiriting manner for the point guard when Pazi did not qualify. In a twist of irony, it was Dynamo that pipped Deing’s former club to the second-spot finish in the group play of the Road To BAL’s Elite 16.

Deing explained that in Pazi’s last group game against Dynamo, his final shot attempt with seconds remaining looked a sure bet to go in, but it could only tease at the rim, and bobble out. That seemingly dashed his hopes of appearing at the BAL for another season.

“Man! Honestly, we were supposed to make it… With my shot looking like it was going in, but for it to rim out, it was just God’s plan. I was frustrated. I wondered why. But now I see why,” said Deing.

The dynamic guard did not have to sit for long in his disappointment. A call from Dynamo’s new French coach Julien Chaignot made his BAL dream come true. Deing felt that divinity was also at work for him to journey to the tiny East African nation.

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“For anybody signing for a club, you first have to look up the country. When I looked up Burundi, it was the poorest country in the world in 2023,” said Deing. “So, I feel something way bigger than me led me there. Going there was a great choice.

“I was happy (to join Dynamo). I played against these guys twice (in The Road To BAL) and knew the atmosphere their fans brought. Their style of play also impressed me, so when I got the call from the coach, I grabbed the opportunity with both hands.”

Despite the economic challenges faced by Burundi, which basketball also mirrors, Deing is unfazed. He believes the trial has given them impetus to excel at the tournament.

He explained his experience playing on the concrete turf under sometimes trying weather conditions.

“We have been preparing for seven to eight weeks outside on concrete… Practising two to three times a day. It’s been a hard grind, but I feel we need that to do well in this tournament,” said Deing. “We know we are an underdog because no other team practices outside with the sun beaming on them. I think that gives us a lot more fuel.”

**Dhieu Deing fell short with Tanzania’s Pazi at the Road To BAL’s Elite 16.**

Deing has also been pleased with his French coach and his new teammates.

“The coach is the type that does his homework on the players he has. He puts everybody in the right position and everyone is on the same page defensively,” said Deing. “We have a player like (Israel) Otobo, a great asset with rebounds, defence and scoring. Guibert (Nijimbere) will give us great spark plug minutes when he comes off the bench.

Dynamo must be on point in all facets of the game when they play Cape Town Tigers on the Kalahari Conference’s opening night (Saturday), FUS Rabat and Petro de Luanda in the expanded BAL.

And Deing is itching with excitement to have finally reached the pinnacle in African club basketball.

“I can’t wait to experience the BAL and showcasing our talent. That is what we are looking for… To show the world what we can do,” said Deing.

He will not have to wait long for the moment that seemed elusive. Come Saturday, the stage will be set for Africa to witness Deing show up and show out.

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Ngwenya confident Tigers will fly SA flag in Kalahari Conference

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FLORSHEIM Ngwenya has been a busy coach. After his recent travails with the national team, he has this week to put the finishing touches to the Cape Town Tigers ahead of a momentous occasion in South African basketball.

The Tigers, last year’s BNL champions, will welcome four teams to the newly minted Kalahari Conference of the young Basketball Africa League (BAL), tipping off at the SunBet Arena in Pretoria (March 9 – 17).

After seeing South Africa, disappointingly lose out to Mozambique in the AfroBasket pre-qualifiers late last month in Maputo, the Tigers coach maintained an upbeat mood as Season 4 of the 12-team BAL is a few sleeps away.

In his usually collected demeanour during interviews, Ngwenya felt confident his team is ready for the inaugural Kalahari Conference.

“I am excited. The (AfroBasket) pre-qualifiers were a jumpstart to the basketball season. Now we are ready to roll with the BAL,” said Ngwenya, who spoke at his team’s media day on Friday at the Mandeville Sports Complex in Johannesburg. “Most of these guys were part of the team in the pre-qualifiers, so we are ready.”

Florsheim Ngwenya at Tigers practice — **Florsheim Ngwenya says the AfroBasket qualifiers helped jumpstart the Tigers’ season. Pictures: The BTO**

Looking back at the short trip to Mozambique, Ngwenya intimated the importance of representing the country. And regardless of the circumstances, the experienced coach says leading the national team is always an honour.

“It felt good. Anytime you represent your country, it’s a privilege. Whether you have a month or two days to prepare, the bottom line is that you are representing the country. Wearing the flag, so you got to take pride in that,” said Ngwenya. It’s been seven years since the country last competed. It was a good outing for the guys. I think it was unfortunate we did not win the whole thing, but it’s a start of good things to come.”

The focus is now on the BAL, and Ngwenya is impressed with how things are taking shape within the team. He also reminded the players that they are doing duty for the country.

“Today (Friday) is for media, but we have put in the hard yards. The players are looking sharp. It’s up to them now to fly the country’s flag higher,” said the former Egoli Magic coach. We will play strong opposition, but we are home. It should count for something.

“With the new format as well… Playing each team twice, you can afford to win one here and lose one there. You can always go back the drawing board and make adjustments for the next game.”

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The Tigers have also made some player moves, with Billy Preston returning to the team. Cartier Diarra, who played for the Tigers in last year’s Road To BAL Elite 16, is also back. South Sudan’s Ngor Manyang has also been roped in for the Tigers’ BAL cause.

Ngwenya took a pragmatic tone on the player movement.

“The roster will always change because players get offers from elsewhere or we get better players than what we have. That is the nature of the business,” said Ngwenya. “We are getting the new guys up to speed on how we play. Luckily, we have smart players who pick up things quickly. So it bodes well for us.”

Of the local contingent, one of the additions made to the Tigers roster is centre Storm Gilchrist. The teenage centre, the son of the legendary Craig Gilchrist, debuted for the national team in Mozambique, and he has a chance to experience the BAL.

Ngwenya says Gilchrist’s inclusion to the Tigers will benefit South Africa.

“Him (Gilchrist) being here is great for the country. It’s great for basketball. It tells young players, ‘If you put in the work, you will get the reward’,” said Ngwenya. “He just needs to do what he does best. Make his mistakes and we correct them. It is part of his growth.”

**Florsheim Ngwenya says South Africa’s basketball structures need to be organised for the country’s game to move forward.**

Ngwenya also spoke on the growth benefits of South Africa getting to host the Kalahari Conference leg of the BAL.

“This speaks volumes about what we can do as a host country. We have hosted the rugby, football, cricket and netball World Cups,” said Ngwenya. “It says to basketball people in South Africa, ‘If we put in the work to make all our structures functional, then good things will happen.

“It’s also great for our fans. They have a chance to see us play at home. Any kid or fan can see us play here than to watch us on TV play away.”

As Ngwenya and the Tigers await Petro de Luanda, FUS Rabat, and Dynamo BBC, they will hope fans come in their numbers to witness a grand milestone in South African basketball.

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Will Al Ahly Benghazi enter the BAL with bang?

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AL Ahly Benghazi is one of the teams making their debut in Season 4 of the Basketball Africa League (BAL). The Big Tip shares some insights on the North African club ahead of the BAL.

Club: Al Ahly Benghazi

Country: Libya

History: The seventy-four-year-old Benghazi-based club have enjoyed some success in spurts in the Libyan basketball circuit. The Butchers have three Libiyan Basketball League championships to their name, two Libyan Super Cup titles and two Arab Club Basketball Championship trophies to their name.

They are not new to the continental scene, having made three FIBA Africa Clubs Championships Cup appearances and finished eighth in 2013.

Al Ahly has also won back-to-back (2012 and 2013) Arab Club Championships.

Route To BAL: During last year’s Road To BAL Division West, Al Ahly had to beat Cameroon’s FAP 93-84 to qualify for the BAL.

Coach: Benghazi recently signed Serbian coach Ivan Jeremic. The 62-year-old’s coaching career began in the youth teams of Serbian club Crevna Zvezda.

Jeremic has had more success as an assistant coach in Russia, winning EuroCups with Unics Kazan and Lokomotiv Kuban. He won four Russian League titles, two Russian Cup trophies with CSKA Moscow and a VTB League title with the same club.

As coach of Al Nasr in Bahrain, he won a league and cup title.

Al Ahly's Solo Diabate — **Point guard Solo Diabate has been an influential figure for Al Ahly. Picture: FIBA Africa**

Star Player: Cote D’Ivoire’s Solo Diabate is one of the continent’s finest point guards. A player with three FIBA World Cup appearances and two AfroBasket Silver medals and had a long career in Europe.

Going into the latter stages of his career, Diabate has enjoyed success at the club level.

The point guard has won two Basketball Africa League titles with Zamalek (Egypt) and US Monastir Tunisia. He has also won league and cup titles with US Monastir and Petro de Luanda.

In Benghazi’s Road To BAL campaign, Diabate had an 18.3 efficiency rating. And he averaged 13.5 points per game and 6.8 assists per game.

With the solid veteran experience of Diabate, and quality addition to the team Al Ahli could have a good trajectory in the BAL.

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Author name: Manyehlisa Lehohla