AL Ahly are one of the favourites ahead of Season 4 of the Basketball Africa League (BAL). They also head to the tournament as defending champions. The Big Tip Off offers some insights into one of Africa’s premiere teams in basketball.
Team: Al Ahly
Country: Egypt
History: One of Egypt’s great sporting institutions, Al Ahly has seven Egyptian Super League titles, 11 Egyptian Cup trophies, and four continental titles.
The Egyptian giants won the Basketball Africa League Season 3 title, a FIBA Africa Clubs Champions Cup and two African Basketball Cup Winners Cups.
Ehab Amin embraces coach Agustì Julbe after the final of last year’s BAL. Pictures: FIBA
Route To BAL: Egypt are one of six countries whose clubs have direct entry to the BAL, and as champions of their country, Al Ahly will defend the (BAL) title they won last year in their debut season.
Coach: Spanish coach Agustì Julbe will lead Al Ahly in their quest to defend their title. During his coaching career, Julbe has contributed to winning titles as an assistant coach. As head coach, he has also delivered silverware.
While at Barcelona, he contributed to a Euroleague trophy, three ACB League titles, three Spanish Cup trophies and three Spanish Super Cups as an assistant coach.
As coach of Zamalek, he won a league and cup, and when he took over the reins at Al Ahly, Julbe won back-to-back league and cup titles.
In the inaugural season of the BAL, he led Al Ahly’s rivals, Zamalek, to the championship. He did likewise with Al Ahly last year.
Star Player: Ahab Amin is one of the stars of the Egyptian game. The Egyptian international was one of Al Ahly’s leading scorers in their BAL title-winning season last year.
The shooting guard averaged 12.7 points per game. He was among the team’s top players in other statistical categories. Amin averaged 3.9 assists and 4.7 rebounds, and led the team in steals (averaging 1.9).
ANDREW Tendo says his recent appointment as the head coach of City Oilers elicited in him two feelings: “anxiety” and “excitement”. The dual emotions engulfing him are understandable as leading the storied Ugandan club will demand that he is also successful during his tenure.
His excitement emanates from his desire to lead a team, which has now become a reality. His anxiety, on the other hand, stems from taking over the position vacated by the accomplished coach Mandy Juruni, who joined Rwanda’s Kepler University last year.
Juruni won nine titles as head coach of the Oilers, and Tendo, as an assistant, was part of three of those championship wins. Having played a part in building the Oilers’ culture of success and now being the man in the hot seat, his state of mind is warranted.
“I have mixed feelings. Like any human being, you are happy to get this opportunity (to coach the Oilers). But you are anxious too because you want to do well,” said Tendo, who has led Uganda’s senior men’s team. “That is why I say mixed feelings… I am happy and anxious regarding the appointment.”
All eyes will be on Andrew Tendo as he takes over from Mandy Juruni. Pictures: The BTO
Tendo expanded on his feeling of anxiety. He knows Juruni left an indelible mark at the Oilers and for him (Tendo), the only foot to get off on, is the right one.
“I was assistant to coach Mandy, who has now moved on to another club. He won nine championships in a row, and that will not be easy to emulate. But you also don’t want to be the coach who starts with a record that is on the negative side. You want to do just as well as your predecessor,” said Tendo.
“The excitement comes from the fact that I have always wanted to be in charge of a team. I have been a part of the club’s history from the start. I desired to be a coach of the City Oilers, but I have had to wait my turn. Finally, here I am. It’s a dream come true.”
Before turning to matters in the court, Tendo, also a lawyer by profession, explained that he is a detail-orientated coach. When asked how being a lawyer has helped with his coaching, he pointed to the aspect of details.
“There are some good things I took from my profession, like planning. I like to plan things as I do not like surprises. I like to picture a lot of scenarios and to figure out how to deal with them accordingly,” said Tendo.
With the commencement of the Uganda National Basketball League (NBL) around the corner (January 25) and the Basketball Africa League (BAL) tipping off in March, Tendo knows he has to get the ball rolling.
He says from a preparation perspective, not much has changed – the only difference is that a new coach will be giving instructions.
“The beauty of how things are run in our club is my involvement (as an assistant) in all the processes regarding the league and the BAL. I gave my input and suggestions for the head coach to consider. Now, I am one of the guys that makes the decisions and the buck stops with me,” said Tendo, who won five league titles as a player for the Falcons Basketball Club. “For the preparations of the local league and BAL, we will do what has worked for us. There will not be many changes. We will be okay during this transition.”
Concerning playing personnel, Tendo says they will introduce more youth ahead of the NBL competition. He will also continue with senior players like forward and team captain James Okello, point guard Fayed Baale and shooting guard Tonny Drileba who are part of the Oilers’ core.
“James Okello is one of the pillars of the team. He has been with us for ninety per cent of the Oilers’ existence. He is one of our senior players. We will need him to help us transition the new players,” said Tendo. “Tonny and Fayed are part of the younger generation. They have now grown to become contributing players. So their services will be vital to our local league and BAL campaign.
Andrew Tendo converses with Mandy Juruni during the Road To BAL Elite 16 Division East.
For the BAL competition, Tendo says they are most likely to retain the international players who did battle for the Oilers at the Road To BAL qualifiers in South Africa last year.
“For the BAL, we will retain the majority of the guys. The team management was at the BAL Combine (in Morocco 5 – 7 January), so we will discuss if they identified players that we can add to the team,” said Tendo.
Finally, Tendo hopes to continue the club’s track record of winning. He implored on the players to be up to that task.
“I appreciate the support I have gotten so far (from management and players). We should all work together because we are writing a new story… And this new story should be about making more history,” concluded Tendo.
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DYLAN Whitbread describes finding basketball at 13 as a life-saving moment for him, especially as he was experiencing great adversity before entering teenagehood.
As a nine-year-old, his mother held the fort when his father left the family, but a young Dylan needed an outlet to cope with his sense of loss. So, when basketball came into Whitbread’s life, then a King Edward VII pupil, it gave him a second family and would later open avenues beyond his wildest imagination.
“I was blessed to have a mom who did her best for my brother, sister and I. My dad left when I was nine, so finding the game gave me a sense of refuge,” said 29-year-old Whitbread. “When you have your four teammates around and the rest of the squad – you feel like you have a family that supports you and it gives a space to forget about the problems at home.”
The Cape Town Tigers player says his mother is his inspiration. He also credits her for instilling a strong work ethic, which helped him chase his dreams.
“When my dad left, she could have easily given up, and it would have altered our lives. She woke up everyday to go to work and came home late. It was just to put food on the table… and put her kids through school. So I gained that work ethic from her and I also want to make a difference in the world,” said Whitbread.
Dylan Whitbread says the BNL’s success hinges on buy-in from players and fans. Pictures: The BTO
As things on the home front stabilised, he experienced an upward trajectory in basketball. Whitbread got to captain the Under-18 Gauteng team and also played for the Under-20 South African team. Another feather on the cap for Whitbread was being part of the 2011 Basketball Without Borders (BWB) class that launched the careers of NBA MVP Joel Embiid.
Whitbread says the experience at the BWB taught him to be ready when opportunities are presented to him – even at the drop of a hat.
“I got the call quite late. I could have done a little more preparation if I had known sooner. It taught me to be prepared and not to wait for those moments to get ready. But I will say it was great getting advice from professional coaches, and you understand what it takes to get there,” said Whitbread. “The NBA is so far away, and the closest you got to it was watching two games a week at 3 a.m. So when you experience something like that (BWB), you can dream and understand what it takes to get there.
“That is why I am excited for the youth because they have the chance to see professional teams, the NBA Academy and the Basketball Africa League (in South Africa). So they have some examples and they can dream big and go for those opportunities,” said Whitbread.
In terms of dreaming big, Whitbread also decided to pursue an education and play basketball in the United States. While the playing part is the most exciting thing for most, Whitbread, who graduated with a BSc in Physics at New York-based Colgate University, is an advocate for education.
Whitbread, a walk-on player at Colgate, understood that sport could change an individual’s economic conditions, but he emphasised being in a classroom can open a myriad of opportunity.
“Any chance you get to travel in life helps change your perspective. It opens up your worldview. As I said earlier, I was at BWB, but when you get to the United States, you learn that basketball is a different machine, and you must understand how that machine works,” said Whitbread.”
“My college experience was great and I went to a fantastic school. I got a good education, and I graduated. I am a big supporter of education because it opens many doors.
“Even for the kids that watch us play… Yes, sport is important. It can be a way out of poverty and other situations, but education is just as important, if not more. I would not trade that experience for anything.”
Since returning to South Africa, Whitbread has continued his playing career in the country’s Basketball National League (BNL). In his spell in the BNL, he turned out for Egoli Magic and later the Tshwane Suns, where he won his first league title last year.
Earlier in the year, he found a new home at the Tigers – a move that broadened his playing horizons. Whitbred got to experience the BAL Nile Conference in Cairo and playoffs in Kigali.
He also won a second BNL title with the Cape team. He reflected on the ups, downs and potential solutions with the league.
“If you play basketball, it is a gift you have. You have to utilise it. I was initially of the mindset that those challenges were keeping me away from the game,” said Whitbread. “When I spoke to my family and people close to me, they asked me, ‘What are you getting from stepping away’?
“By persevering through those moments, it has given me another opportunity. The frameworks here will improve, but you need buy-in from people. The top players have to play in the league, and that is how it will improve.”
Whitbread also spoke about his first championship at the Suns. “It was fantastic, but I was thinking what is next. I can tell you the novelty of winning a league title wares off quickly. But it did means a lot in terms the work I put in over the years to get to that level,” he said.
Dylan Whitbread feels the Tigers will bring intensity at the BAL next year. Pictures: FIBA
The move to the Tigers, earlier in the year, coincided with the team’s second appearance at the BAL. The competition was, as Whitbread reflected, an “eye opener”. The continental experience has also helped Whitbred change his approach to the game.
“Initially, I was recruiting guys to come join Suns. I had no intention of joining the Tigers, but I got an invite to work out with some of their guys,” said Whitbread. “I think my work ethic was what won the management over. And they were like, ‘listen, why don’t you give it a try’. As someone that wants to grow I would be remiss not to take that opportunity.”
“It (the BAL) was an eye opening experience. Watching it on TV and being there is not the same thing. I wish I had more time to prepare, even though I don’t know what I could have done. After that I went back to the drawing board. I am working with a skills trainer and working on my body.”
Looking ahead, Whitbread and the Tigers will prepare for another BAL adventure next year after they qualified with a 5-0 record at the Road To BAL Elite 16 in November. This time, the expanded tournament sees South Africa hosting the Kalahari Conference.
Whitbread, looks forward to the competition, but he took a pragmatic tone because a lot of change tends take place ahead the BAL. The volatile nature of international basketball has seen players come and go, and this impacts team chemistry.
“When there is a lot of time between when we qualified and when the tournament starts, things can change. We have seen it before where import players return and some don’t. So it’s on us as individuals to stay ready,” said Whitbread. “We will always bring intensity, effort and professionalism. So, wherever we play, I think South Africans will be proud of how we represent the country.
“We want to put South African basketball on the map. I think that is starting to happen. We want to play with pride and as a band of brothers.”
The adversity of his life has shaped him for the challenges of life, the game has and continues to teach him to stay ready and he can be proud of himself for staying focused and reaching for his dreams.
PIETER Prinsloo spoke with a different energy upon his return to South America. The familiar clime of Chile and reuniting with his former club seem to have lit a new flame in the South African big man.
The versatile forward also helped the Tigers capture two national club titles (2021 and 2022) and a maiden Basketball National League (BNL) trophy in July. His final act for the team was to help them qualify for the BAL with a 5-0 record during the Elite 16 held in South Africa in November.
Pieter Prinsloo is sad to be missing out on the BAL, especially the Kalahari Conference. Pictures: The BTO and FIBA.
Sadly, the former Marist Red Foxes player will miss out on the expanded BAL, commencing with the new Kalahari Conference in South Africa. While he expressed his sadness at having to miss out on a crowning moment in South African basketball – practical reasons outweighed sentiment.
“Yeah, that is disappointing … Knowing that I will miss the group phase (Kalahari Conference) at home. When it was announced (that the BAL is expanding to South Africa), it made me realise that we had the opportunity to play at home and in front of our fans,” said 31-year-old Prinsloo.
“It’s a tough one… It hit hard. But I understand I have to do what’s best for my career and family. It was not an easy choice and it hits hard that I will not be able to experience the BAL at home.”
Prinsloo says Club Deportivo Universidad de Concepción (UDEC) had kept tabs on him for some time, and when they came knocking again, he gladly opened.
“The club (UDEC) had been in contact with me since September. Before that, in 2021 and last year, they also kept in touch with me, as they needed a player for the Champions League. But I was tied up with the BAL qualifiers,” said Prinsloo. “The coach (Cipriano Nunez) contacted me and asked about my playing situation again… I told him I had a contract until mid-November when the Elite 16 was supposed to start, but the dates changed.
“As soon as we finished the Elite 16, we reconnected. He told me he needed me for the Champions League, but he needed to clear things with management first. Last week Friday, the contract got sorted out with my agent, and on Sunday, I flew out with my family.”
Also, at this stage of his career, a frequent run of games is crucial for him – it is something he felt was missing while he was with the Tigers.
Prinsloo says his new contract at UDEC allows him to compete in Chile’s domestic league and cup tournament. While he is excited about a long-term playing career in the Andean nation, another thrill for Prinsloo is returning to Basketball Champions League Americas.
“Playing on this platform (Champions League) is a tremendous honour for me. My team is in the same group as the (FIBA) Intercontinental (Cup) Champions, Sesi Franca. They beat the BAL champions, Al Ahly, in that tournament. They (Sesi Franca) are the best team in the world,” said Prinsloo. “We are in the same group (as Sesi Franca), and we travel to Brazil next week to play in the first window. I love playing on this stage. The last time I was here, I helped the team win a game and got the MVP. It was a big step in my career.
“So, when I got the opportunity to come back, I was excited. They have their cup competitions and a strong league. The contract they offered me was one I could not refuse. It’s a long-term deal, and I will be playing for eight to nine months. Those are things I was accustomed to before I came back home and I want to get back to that.”
He also believes he will thrive in Nunez’s system, which allows him to play multiple positions.
“The coach here is demanding. He is not strict, but he is intense during practice. He pushes to get the best out of you. And he allows you to play your game within his system. Coach Florsh (Ngwenya) did the same at Tigers,” said Prinsloo. “Our coach knows the value I bring. He has the idea of playing me at the three, four and five positions.
“In competitions like the Champions League, I’ll be playing against 6ft9, 6ft10 and 6ft11 guys… Guys who will play in the positions I spoke about. The coach will expect a lot from me and to affect those spots.”
Pieter Prinsloo has reunited with UDEC and looks forward to Champions League basketball.
Prinsloo reflected on his time in South Africa. He felt the Tigers changed the landscape of the game in the country. But he also pointed out that South Africa lagged behind the top nations in basketball on the continent.
“I loved being back in SA. It’s home. The Tigers shifted the culture a little and provided an opportunity for players. Hopefully, the market is open to other organisations to do the same,” said Prinsloo. “We have the BNL, but it is not the same level as leagues in Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia and Rwanda. In those leagues, guys depend on basketball for an income – that is not the case with the BNL. So, the Tigers are trying to help players earn a living from basketball. Hopefully, other organisations will follow.
“The presence of the NBA (in South Africa) and the Kalahari Conference coming next year – shows the game’s potential. When I look back, basketball was not my sport until I left for the States. Now, there are initiatives to try and grow the game and I was a part of that and it is something I am grateful for.”
By bringing his talent and exemplary leadership to South Africa the local game was richer. While there is no doubt that he’ll do well in Chile, the hope is that Prinsloo will return and inspire many with his skill, grit and consummate professionalism.
RACHEL ‘Rocket’ Ngona exudes confidence in her ability to play basketball, and while she picked up the game a little late in high school, she quickly adapted and has gone on to become a star in a short space of time.
It has also led the point guard, who has starred for Mpumalanga Rhinos and had a stint with Mozambican club New Vision de Pemba, to proclaim herself as HER.
Before her bold declaration and career reflection, Ngona, a 3X3 specialist, explained to The Big Tip Off how basketball entered the fray of her life.
Ngona ditches the soccer boots for basketball sneakers
Ngona, an avid football fan, was nursing a right ankle injury – at the time. During Ngona’s recovery process, one of her peers tried to persuade her to switch codes.
“I was a soccer player and loved everything to do with it. In my grade 10 year, I was playing (football) and got injured. One of my friends, who was playing basketball, asked me to give it a try,” said the 22-year-old.
At first, she was reluctant, but once she realised the game unleashed her toughness, Ngona swayed – tentatively!
“Initially, I was like, hmmm, I love soccer … I am not going to play a sport I am not familiar with. After getting out of my cast, I went to one training, and to my surprise, I could be aggressive and no one would ask ‘Why are you being aggressive’?” said the former Athlone Girls High School pupil.
Rachel Ngona had the experience of a lifetime while playing in Mozambique. Pictures: The BTO
The second practice was the charm. It was also a time Ngona shot her shot in the provincial ranks.
“I did not instantly fall in love with it, but it was interesting. I realised I had a good handle and I could shoot threes. Which all came naturally,” said Ngona. “The second practice is when I fell in love with the game. There were also provincial trials that week, and I made it to the final stage, where they selected a team.
“That is when I realised I have the potential to go far in this game.”
While Ngona bloomed in basketball, an abrupt reality crept on her – she could not have the best of both worlds playing her newfound sports and football.
“I had a difficult decision to make because while playing basketball, I was captain of the soccer team in grade 11. My dad reminded me that I can’t do everything as I risked getting injured,” said Ngona. “Basketball was the winner. When I did not have transport to go to a court, I would walk to a court. That is how much I love the game.”
In the last two years of high school (2018 and 2019), Ngona cracked the nod for the Gauteng provincial team. She spent time refining her game, leading to recognition from her province. She described making the team as “a great feeling”, and it helped elevate her self-confidence.
“The following year, I worked on improving my game. I added a layup package, bettered my handles and improved my accuracy from three-point range. That led to me making the team (provincial) two years running,” said Ngona. “It was a great feeling (making the provincial team). I also started to believe more in my ability. I did not have anyone to look up to or tell me, ‘This is how you play basketball’. So I was just having fun with it.”
Her hard work over the last few years has paid off and continues to do so in the present. It has led to her making the following statement.
“My game has become more composed. I feel I am different and my game is on another level. I believe that I am HER,” said Ngona.
Learning the ropes and starring in the WBNL
Since then, Ngona, the 1.70m (5ft7) floor general, has played three seasons in the Women’s Basketball National League (WBNL) and has stood out for a struggling Rhinos team.
Despite her WBNL franchise being unable to make waves, Ngona has made an individual impact since her debut season in 2021.
The intelligent point guard has been a WBNL All-Star three times. Ngona feels the four-year-old women’s league is a platform for exposure.
“It was inspiring for us. It felt like they (BNL management) finally saw us because I was playing pick-up games before that. I felt my talent needed to be out there. So, the BNL recognising me and other talented players is amazing,” said Ngona.
Rachel Ngona playing at the 3X3 Dreals Paris tournament in Johannesburg.
She also reflected on the Rhinos’, who had won a game a single in their first two years of existence. Ngona believes season three was a slight improvement: “We have had our ups and downs. But I have the Dame Lillard attitude, where you build. I don’t want to title chase. Wherever I play, I want to have fun and be part of the building process. We can grow as a franchise, and 2023 is the beginning.”
Falling in love with the Mozambican game
Another milestone in the bag for Ngona was playing in Mozambique in the women’s Liga Sasol, sponsored by the South African petroleum parastatal.
Ngona, who suited up for New Vision de Pemba, was excited that she got a chance to play on a much bigger stage.
“UJ (University of Johannesburg) coach Thuso Moiloa called me and said, ‘There is an opportunity for you to play in Mozambique. Are you available?” said Ngona. “Of course, I was excited and told him I was down. It was a big stage for me. And I had to prove that I could play at a high level.
“It was not hard adjusting to their physicality. Their intensity and physical style is higher than anything I have experienced. And you have to play through that. It was a great experience. I would go back again. I fell in love.”
Ngona, who recently won the Johannesburg Invitational with Corinthians BWA, has established herself as a star in the South African game. She has also tasted basketball outside the country, and the hope is to see her spread her wings further.
AGINALDO Neto and his NBA Academy teammates closed out practice with a free throw drill. When a couple of players missed their shots, the entire team had to sprint the length of the court. Of course, the budding prospects must complete their sprints within seconds and under the watchful eye of coach Alfred Aboya, who keeps count.
After a few more misses, they again have to sprint, this time, to the half-court, back to the baseline and then the length of the court. Much to the relief of some tired players, some already hunched over with their hands on their knees, South Sudanese centre Khaman Maluach scores the free throw to end the Friday practice at the Mandeville Sports Centre in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Aginaldo Neto has had a smooth transition into the NBA Academy. Pictures: The BTO
Neto, who spoke to The Big Tip Off ahead of the Academy’s Road To BAL Elite 16 Division East participation (21 November – 26 November), says this is the norm in their practices.
“This is something we are used to – running after we miss shots, no matter who is watching, this is what we do,” said Angolan-born Neto.
The 17-year-old point guard joined the Senegal-based Academy after last year’s FIBA U18 African Championships in Madagascar. Neto feels privileged to be part of the Academy setup and says he was undaunted when he left home to chase his basketball dreams.
“It was an easy process (joining the NBA Academy) because I lived in an academy before I left Angola. I always call my family on weekends. I talk about my experiences, and we share jokes. It’s been easy because I have support from my family and the Academy,” said Neto.
“I am feeling blessed to have (joined the Academy). It shows that hard work pays off. If I did not work hard, I would not be here. I feel like I am one of the best point guards on the continent. I also have the best teammates in Africa and the world.”
The Academy players are playing in the Elite 16 to showcase their talents for the 12 teams playing in the Basketball Africa League (BAL) next year. According to Neto, who was part of last year’s Academy exhibition team, there is much to play for at the Ellis Park Arena.
“We always want to win even if we are here to participate. This mindset never changes. We are here for business,” said the floor general. “Some of our alumni, Ruben (Chinyelo) and Thierry (Darlan) played in this competition. We learnt from their experience and we want to put on a show.”
The young prodigy also reflected on representing Angola at the junior continental competition in Madagascar last year.
“It was a great experience. I was one of the youngest players at 16 and playing against 18-year-olds. Also, everyone is here to support you, from the federation, coaches and teammates,” said Neto, who averaged 4.9 points, 1.4 rebounds and 1.1 assists in the island nation.
His present situation in West Africa is a stepping stone to opportunities. Neto also walks on the shoulders of giants in his home country of Angola.
The golden generation of Carlos Morais and Kikas Gomes, who won multiple AfroBasket titles, are an inspiration to Neto. While the duo spent most of their careers in Angola, Neto on the other hand has cast his vision beyond the shores of his country of birth.
Aginaldo Neto says he and his Academy teammates are for the Elite 16.
“I dream of being one of them and more. My desire is to play overseas, in the NBA or take my talents as far as possible. I want to be greater than them,” said Neto. “They inspired me when I started playing. I used to watch how Carlos Morais executed his pull-up jumpers and how he drove to the rim. Kikas Gomes is a great centre.
“They inspired me to work hard. Because of them and many others, we have 11 Afrobasket championships in Angola.”
Since their last AfroBasket title in 2013, Angola has experienced some lean years, but Neto feels he will be part of the generation that turns the corner.
“We want to be better. I believe my generation has a lot of talent and people should look out for us. We will work hard to reclaim our place on the continent,” concluded Neto.
ONE of the most noticeable features at businessman Cabby Magongwa’s home — nestled in Africa’s richest square mile, Sandton — is a basketball court, and on the concrete turf rests plastic tiling with his media and entertainment company, Darkchild Productions.
On the surface level, it looks like Magongwa is living the dream, but that should not mask his deep love for basketball, a game he has played for almost three decades. Recently, he has answered the call to serve the game in a political capacity.
Born in Temba, Hammanskraal, a township north of South Africa’s capital, Tshwane, Magowngwa picked up the game in the most unlikeliest of countries — Lesotho.
The year was 1988, and South Africa was under the grip of the evil apartheid system. One of the ways the system oppressed the black majority was to impose substandard education. So, Magongwa’s parents prudently sent a young Cabby and his sister across the Caledon River to boarding school to access a better education.
Speaking to The Big Tip Off, Magongwa explained how difficult it was leaving family behind and adjusting to a new situation.
“Leaving my family was tough. But you have to understand I lived in the hood, and that was all one knew. When you went to other parts of country, like Cape Town and Durban, you found that they were under strict control (apartheid laws) and your parents were the ones guiding you,” said Magongwa.
Cabby Magongwa learnt to play basketball in Lesotho. Pictures: The BTO
He says moving to Lesotho rocked the foundation of his life.
“The issue was leaving the country as an 11-year-old and heading to boarding school, something I had never of. From there, you have to figure it out because your mom is not there to make breakfast, and your brothers and sisters are not there to take care of you,” said Magongwa. “Luckily, I had my other sister with me, but still… Being removed from everything and everyone you love was hard. I think that life experience is worth a degree.”
There is no degree for life experience, but Magongwa, who returned to South Africa in 1994, says being in the enclave country helped shape the man he is.
“It is said travelling is a degree, and I believe that. I learnt life lessons from being out there, alone and not depending on other people. It prepared me for the future… Knowing that in order to be successful everything rests on your efforts,” said Magongwa.
“That was a life-changing moment. If I did not leave home, I do not think I would be where I am today. Maybe I would be in a far worse situation.”
Magongwa, who coincidentally returned to South Africa the year it became a democracy (1994), would pursue his studies at the University of Pretoria and played for the Tuks team. The democratic dispensation coincided with the temporary rise of basketball in the country.
“I returned to the country when it had become a democracy and basketball was thriving. That was probably the best time to be in South Africa to play basketball. So, when I came back I plugged in,” said Magongwa, who also played for Wits University and Ghent University in Belgium.
Reflecting on his playing days, Magongwa says despite not being the tallest player on the court, he brought the spark whenever the teams he played on needed it.
“I was an All-Star at the varsity level. It showed you don’t have to be tall to play basketball. I was an energiser bunny, and when I had the ball, you needed a lot of speed to catch me. Also, I was a good dribbler and shooter,” said Magongwa.
After closing the chapter on university life, the former point guard ventured into the world of work. But after working for a few corporates, Magongwa realised that formal employment was not his cup of tea.
“I did not like any of the jobs I did, and I felt like I was trapped. One day, they talked about trying to get us into the management level and what the plan was,” said Magongwa. “I told them, ‘I do not plan on being here for long as I want to do something that involves basketball’. ‘The lady asked what are you still doing here’? And that is when I resigned.”
That was when his brainchild, Darkchild Productions, which was already in the works, came to life. The name Darkchild was inspired by R’n’B artists who used open music videos with the catchy phrase in the early 2000s.
“I had prepared myself for that leap of faith. I got JDA (Johannesburg Development Agency) to commit to providing courts in Newtown, where we ran our programs. They also gave us a marketing budget for some of the events we ran,” said Magongwa. “The name came from listening to the likes of Brandy and Toni Braxton. You would hear them open their music with the word, ‘Darkchild’. When I researched further, I learned that Rodney ‘Darkchild’ Jenkins was the one who produced the music.
“I chose the name (Darkchild) because it had a cool ring to it. It also reminded companies, that we are the black kids on the block trying to do something. If they are looking for a BEE (Black Economic Empowerment) partner we are here.”
Magongwa continued: “Darkchild was a platform for all the work I did in basketball. I did not have much at the time. All I had was R5000 from my provident fund… My brain and my time.”
Cabby Magongwa wants to bring change to the Joburg basketball scene.
While still involved in business, Magongwa has brought his skills to the grassroots. A few months ago, after realising that only complaining about the poor state of the game in the Joburg district would not help, he decided to roll up his sleeves and get his hands dirty.
Magongwa, who has been the presidential hot seat of the Johannesburg Basketball Association (JBA) for a couple of months, hopes he and his executive will have hopefully steadied the ship in time for elections next year.
“I have played in the association’s masters league. There and in other spaces, we spoke about how unhappy we were with basketball’s lack of direction,” said Magongwa. “I realised we needed to be the change we want to see. So, I had to make myself available. I own my time so I can dedicate myself to seeing basketball grow.”
Magongwa, who outlined the objectives on social media when he took office, hopes to restore Johannesburg basketball — seen as the crown jewel of the game in the country — to its former glory.
“This a commitment I have made and want to see through. What I want to see is Joburg becoming a strong basketball mecca. This will hopefully filter to the province and then the country,” concluded Magongwa.
Magongwa and his executive have started on the right note with the return to action on the court. The Johannesburg Basketball Invitational tournament, which began a week ago in Soweto, is a prelude to a fresh start and a potentially prosperous league next year.
WHENEmmanuel Mavomoleft his country of birth, the Democratic Republic of Congo for South Africa, one of the passions he carried with him was his love for basketball. He did not know where the game would lead him, and after jumping through some of life’s hoops, he then arrived at his ah-ha moment.
Initially a football fan, the feats of the superstar-laden USDream Team at the 1992 Barcelona Olympicsmade him a convert. “It was when Michael Jordan and the Dream Team played at the Olympics. It looked nice and was played at a fast pace. I believed I could do this,” Kinshasa-born Mavomo told The Big Tip Off. “Like every kid in Africa, I played football first. But I decided I like this sport (basketball) and I was going to start playing it.”
As he played the game, life would take a twist. Political instability in the Democratic Republic of Congo, saw Mavomo shaken out of his comfort zone and forced him to trek south to start a fresh new life in South Africa. In South Africa, the themes of sacrifice, reality checks and a career detour were the order day for Mavomo, but what did not dissipate was his love for basketball.
Mavomo’s initiation in South Africa Cape Town was the first setting of Mavomo’s new life. In the Mother City, he pursued his studies at Cape Technikon, nowCape Peninsula University of Technology, where he encountered a catch-22 situation. Mavomo was working to fund his studies and playing for the institution’s team. He battled to balance all three, so, something had to give.
Thierry Kita, his team coach in those days, dropped a pearl of wisdom that informed Mavomo’s next move. “Unfortunately, I could not combine studies, work and basketball. I had to work to pay for my studies. My coach back then, Thierry Kita, told me I had to choose. ‘You are working to pay for your studies… That is the priority. So you have cut the less important thing,” said Mavomo. “… it was basketball. I did not go far as a player, but I still loved the sport. I did know I would be come a coach one day.”
Emmanuel Mavomo, picked some of life’s hard lessons while living in South Africa. Pictures: Supplied
After completing his studies, he worked for a while in Cape Town, but eventually, Mavomo headed north to Johannesburg to seek new opportunities.
It was also in the City of Gold that he realised he had a knack for coaching. Being in Johannesburg also reignited Mavomo’s involvement in the game.
“I continued my studies and worked in the food and beverage industry in Cape Town. I then moved to Joburg to seek better pastures. That is where I met Cabby Magongwa (owner) ofDarkchild Productions,” said Mavomo.
“He had the contract for the branding and marketing ofBWB (Basketball Without Borders). He showed me the ropes in the marketing space and later put me in charge of that portfolio,” said Mavomo. “So, seeing the NBA guys come to South Africa reignited the flame. I realised this is the world I belong in.”
When he parted ways with Darkchild, Mavomo struggled to make ends meet, and at the same time, his ah-ha moment arrived. “I had to find something to keep me going. A friend asked me, when we coincidentally walked by some basketball courts, ‘Hey, you love basketball. How about we organise events, and you coach the kids?” said Mavomo. “We got started with some weekend events. That is when I decided to make this (coaching) my passion. I also started coaching at schools, and I took some FIBA other online courses. And the rest is history.”
While South Africa was his initiation school, Mavomo’s relocating to Angola was the pathway to him realising his coaching dream. When his then-wife got a job in the Southern African country, it was, as Mavomo says, “a blessing in disguise”. Armed with new knowledge, he knocked on the doors of two of the country’s big clubs and one opened after three months.
“I had taken basketball courses online through a school calledSports Management World Wide. Through that school, I learned video editing, analytics and analysis. Also, my wife, at the time, had to go to Angola. She told me, ‘Look, my work is taking me to Angola. Are you coming with me or staying behind?” said Mavomo.
“Of course, I told her she could not go there alone. For me, Angola was a blessing in disguise because it is one of the best basketball countries in Africa. “In 2015, I went to Petro de Luanda and introduced myself and what I had to offer. During that time in Africa, not many teams cared about scouting or video analysis. I was more shocked at Angola they also lacked those expertise.”
The season Mavomo joined Petro, the Angolan giants achieved instant success, winning the FIBA Africa Clubs Champion Cup (now the BAL), Angolan League and Super Cup. While his pioneering efforts brought success to Petro, Mavomo felt it was a joint effort. “I don’t want to say it was kudos to me; everything just worked in our favour. The coach (Lazare Adiengono) was good, and there was good chemistry among the players,” said Mavomo.
Angola’s best challenge Mavomo
In light of Petro’s success and the innovation brought by Mavomo, the management of Angola’s national team did not waste time and hired him. He had arrived, but he knew he had to keep his feet on the ground, as working with stars like Carlos Morais, Olimpio Cipriano, and Leonel Paulo would be no cakewalk.
“When I think about it, it’s still a dream. I still remember the time I knocked on the doors of Primero de Agosto and Petro. My attitude was, ‘Let me try’,” said Mavomo. “Now doors were opening. I was part of the team as a scout and video coordinator for three years, which was until the 2019 World Cup. I still can’t believe that happened and I am grateful.”
He also reflected on working with some of Angola’s best players. “When you first come to the job, you are a fan. You are like, ‘There is Carlos (Morais), Olimpio (Cipriano) and Leonel (Paulo)’. As you get into it, they look at you as a coach. Now you have to deliver a message. You have to teach, and everything you say has to mean something,” said Mavomo. “These guys are intelligent and will challenge you. So everything you present has to be on point. The honeymoon phase faded on the third day, and I had to give a presentation about our opponents. From there your job is on the line and you have to be professional.”
Mavomo says basketball teams around the continent have since seen the value of having people with similar expertise as he does.
“From the 2017 AfroBasket, not many teams had video coordinators, but the year after, I believe the number grew. Now you see, every team has one. I think Angola helped Africa today,” said Mavomo. “Even at the BAL, teams have video coordinators. The game is growing, and if you don’t have somebody that analyses the game for you, you are two or three steps behind.”
From that time, Mavomo’s reputation has grown. He served under Sacramento Kings coach Mike Brown on the Nigerian men’s team and went to the Tokyo Olympics with the West African country’s women’s side, who led by Otis Hughley.
Emmanuel Mavomo was proud to lead Espoir Fukash during BAL Season 2.
The BAL and serving the DRC
In the debut season (2021) of theBasketball Africa League (BAL),Mavomo, who had already established himself as a coach, was an assistant to Allan Major at Rwanda’s Patriots Basketball Club.
The following season of BAL saw him return home to the DRC and assume the coaching reins at Espoir Fukash. Mavomo says that was a proud moment for him.
“It was the most beautiful thing. When you lead a team from your country, it’s a proud moment. You have made your grandmother proud. Your uncle proud. You have made your country proud,” said the former Democratic Republic of Congo coach. “We did what we could with what we had, but that moment is one that will never leave you.”
Rodeo with the Austin Spurs
Mavomo, now based in the United States, hit another career milestone. He was recently appointed assistant coach of theG-League’s Austin Spurs. His appointment to the Spurs reunited him with former Angola coach Will Voigt.
While he is happy with the opportunity, he hopes this is another stepping stone to greater things in his career.
“I’m grateful to be here and hope my path inspires many people. But I’m never satisfied. I want to get better. I have known Will for a while. Now we are in a different league,” said Mavomo.
“Our team did not do well last season. We have young players trying to go somewhere with their careers, but you have to remind them that they have to be grounded.
“The time is now to try and get wins for the organisation. While doing that our one of our goals is to develop these players to either becomeNBAplayers or good European league players, but most importantly, to be good human beings. I look forward to the challenge and I hope it will be a fun season.”
ELVIS Ukpong’s day-to-day life revolves around basketball. He burns the candle at the school and professional level. Admittedly, both his jobs ask a lot of him and while the balancing act is not easy, great reward has manifested.
In the mornings until the end of the school day, Nigerian Ukpong serves as an educator and director of basketball at St David’s Marist Inanda, a school based in the affluent suburb of Sandton in Johannesburg, South Africa.
When the toil of shaping the minds of young men ends for the day, Ukpong begins his second job, being the general manager of the two-time national and BNLSA champions, Cape Town Tigers.
“My day starts at 7am. I am involved in the academic program and pastoral care duties of the school. In the afternoon we have the extra-mural activities and then later in the day I transition to the Tigers’ practice and other duties,” said Ukpong, a former media liaison officer of the Tigers.
“It is demanding. Tigers have their needs, and that must be done immediately. Luckily, there is a support system. We have people that help to make things happen. The school has its demands as well. I play a leadership role here. A lot depends on me regarding the flow of communication. So, it requires a lot of balance.”
Yes, pressure does come with the territory when holding down two jobs. But when they serve one ecosystem, there can be benefits.
Recently, Ukpong’s school basketball program scored a humungous win by acquiring a sponsor for their annual Inanda Hoops Classic Challenge, which runs from Thursday to Sunday.
Before speaking on the sponsorship, Ukpong touched on his basketball journey. He was a professional player, but sadly, his career was cut short by an off the court injury.
“I played school basketball back home in Nigeria. I also played professionally in Cote d’Ivoire for Fighters Abidjan. They were known as ABC when I played for them. You may have seen them play in the BAL,” said Ukpong.
“Unfortunately, I got into a car accident, which affected my right knee and it stopped my playing career.”
Elvis Ukpong played professionally for Fighter Abidjan of Cote d’Ivoire. Pictures: The BTO
Fortunately, Ukpong did not close the door on basketball and found another way to stay involved in the game.
“I became a scout, and this is how I came to South Africa. I was with Basketball Without Borders as a scout. Later, I would be hired for the same job. That is how came to stay here (South Africa). From that, I saw there was a skills shortage and that is how I got involved in coaching,” said the former University of Ibadan student.
Ukpong has since grown from being a coach to now heading the St David’s program. Despite his upward trajectory, he still enjoys sitting on the bench and giving instructions. Also, what has been fulfilling for him, is seeing his pupils reach their potential.
“It’s been rewarding to see the kids learn the game… Seeing them play at the next level, which is university gives me joy. Some of them have gone to places like the United States to further their studies and improve their game. It has been rewarding to witness and be part of their growth,” said the former Soweto Panthers manager.
It is not only the pupils that have come under the tutelage of Ukpong that have experience growth. He says engaging with the young men over the years has helped him develop his emotional intelligence.
“My temperament has changed. I used to be the coach who screamed a lot and was unnecessarily demanding. Now, I am more of a brother, a person who guides the kids and helps them to achieve their goals,” said Ukpong. “I am dealing with human beings and not chess pieces that I just move on the board. They are kids with emotions. I have realised that, over the years.”
Another aspect of Ukpong’s growth has been his ability to leverage the relationships he has built. He enticed Scott Pharoah, the owner of Pharoah Auto Investments, to sponsor the Inanda Hoops Classic Challenge, which is now in its sixth year.
“There is value in building relationships, especially at a personal level. It is through building relations that you get your message across. So, this opportunity came through engaging with Scott on a personal level,” said Ukpong.
“We invited him to several of the Tigers’ games. It exposed him to a different level of basketball. I think that played a role.”
Elvis Ukpong, face mask, wants to serve in a managerial capacity in basketball.
The corporate investment has now put the Hoops Classic in a different light, and Ukpong agrees. It has also allowed St Davids to open the tournament to other schools.
“This sponsorship improves the scale of the tournament. We are going to the sixth edition, and it did get much recognition in the school circuit. Bringing in this sponsorship and getting exposure from the media helps to put the school’s name and the tournament out there.
“Also, before the sponsorship, schools used to pay an entry fee to enter. With Pharoah Auto on board, there is an opportunity for other schools that could not previously afford it (the fees) to participate.”
Ukpong has cultivated a niche for himself in basketball. Having acquired knowledge in the different spheres of the game, where does he want to serve in the future?
“I am moving more in the direction of management and less coaching. I want to set up a structure that will help me transition from coaching, to a higher level of management in basketball. That is what I see myself doing,” concluded Ukpong.
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