Author name: Manyehlisa Lehohla

African basketball enthusiast, founder and editor of The Big Tip Off and a freelance writer.

Udezue keeps the flame burning for young Nigerian ballers

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(PRETORIA) As an entrepreneur, Ugo Udezue understands creating opportunities for people can transform their lives. So, upon learning that the Nigerian teams (men and women) were struggling to get funding to travel to South Africa for the FIBA U18 AfroBasket, he moved mountains to ensure the kids would not miss the golden opportunity.

Udezue, a former basketball player, says making sure the youngsters made the trip for the tournament was personal, as the U18 program in his country, Nigeria, changed his life.

The businessman, owner of the growing sporting apparel brand Africa For Africa (AFA), also serves as head of delegation J’Tigers and J’Tigress teams. He also expanded on why he put his business interests on hold to serve his country.

“It was personal to me because I am a product of the U18 teams in Nigeria. It allowed me to get a scholarship and attend college in America. So when I learned that the government had no funding, I took it upon myself to raise the money… To keep the flame going for girls and boys,” said Udezue.

Ugo Udezue at the U18 AfroBasket
Ugo Udezue says the Nigerian youth team remind him of his younger self. Pictures: The BTO and FIBA

The J’Tigress arrived timeously for the event, while the men’s team’s travel plans were almost in jeopardy because of visa issues. To Udezue’s relief, the team made the trip down south and arrived in the early hours of last Wednesday for their Group B opener against Egypt.

Breathing a sigh of relief, he described how a stroke of good fortune led to the J’Tigers making their flight to South Africa.

“It was a blessing when they got here. They only made it here because the flight they were supposed to board got delayed to 8 pm. It (the flight) was supposed to leave at 12 pm, but they only got their visas at 3 pm… So, they quickly had to get on that flight. So it is by the grace of God, the hard work of people that have been on the journey with me and those that invested for this to happen,” says Udezue.

 

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The Nigeria men’s program has been one of the most successful on the continent – the U18 men have six AfroBasket titles to show for it. But it has lagged over the last decade. Asked why this was the case, Udezue could not offer a reason and chose to focus on the present.

“Honestly, I do not have an answer to that question. I can only speak on what is in front of us today. I think it is important for countries to have youth development programs and be involved in these competitions,” said Udezue. “We are taking the bull by the horns and want to ensure that this is not our only participation. We want a repetition.

“This is not for us – it’s for the kids and giving them an opportunity. When you save one kid, maybe they can reinvest back into the country, like I did. So, I am fully invested in this process,” said Udezue, a former NBA agent.

While investing his time to help Nigeria show up on the continent, he has ensured they do so in style by supplying AFA branded kit to the women’s and men’s teams.

Being a man who experienced broadened horizons, he says his brand goes beyond just supplying kits. He says the ethos of AFA is to support the African sporting ecosystem.

“We did not start our brand to supply kits. AFA means Africa For Africa… For the game to grow, we need indigenous sports brands to be part of the process. Nike and Puma will not always come to our rescue,” said Udezue. “So there is an opportunity for local brands to support or sponsor local leagues and international competition, especially at this level (U18). It’s a no-brainer. If we had the capacity, we would want to sponsor this competition (AfroBasket). That is what we hope to do in future.”

Roger Bidias of Cameroon
Cameroon’s Roger Bidias wears an AFA-sponsored kit during the FIBA Olympic qualifying tournament.

Udezue’s brand, adorned on the D’Tigress Olympic team kit, is beginning to have a footprint in neighbouring countries. AFA is a kit sponsor for Cameroon’s senior national teams. It (AFA) also supplied apparel to the Central African Republic team Bangui Sporting Club during their Road To BAL campaign last year.

For Udezue, it is only the beginning. “We are only getting started. Our mindset is not only Nigeria – it is Africa. I am a pan Africanist. I won’t say we want to dominate anything. We are setting up this brand to improve sports in Africa,” said Udezue.

The interview turned back to the kids and how they impacted him. “They have touched life because they have given me the opportunity to teach them. They have given me the opportunity to contribute to the world. I want them to be more successful than I have been,” said Udezue. “They have taught me so much and brought me back to the basics of who I used to be… That is humbling. I hope they able to change their own lives and that of their families.”

Udezue’s reinvestment in Africa has unlocked doors that seemed closed and opened a market that was bubbling under the surface. His pioneering and humanitarian spirit is inspirational and an example for the sons and daughters of this continent.

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Zambia bring good vibes and fighting spirit to U18 AfroBasket

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(PRETORIA) Since arriving in South Africa for the U18 AfroBasket, the Zambia men’s team has been one of the vibrant teams at the tournament. From their excitement at their media day to how the Zambians sang in unison during pre-match training, they have soaked in every moment – in their tournament debut.

A day after his team’s memorable group stage victory over South Africa, coach Paul Mwale says his team is so upbeat because of the mantra they live by, boostele. The word is a fusion of English and the accentuation at the end.

“We thrive on what we call boostele. Boostele gets us in the mood (ahead of games) – it takes the fear out of us. We challenge each opponent that comes our way. So we are always upbeat because of that,” said Mwale. “We always want to be in a happy space and mood to be game-ready. Soccer and netball do the same. So this is our philosophy as a sports nation.

Paul Mwaleon the sidelines
Paul Mwale and Zambia will adopt a business-like attitude against Rwanda. Pictures: FIBA and The BTO

Mwale’s team has recorded a 1-1 record in the tournament, an opening Group C loss to Morocco (84-67) and a win (70-61) over the host nation, South Africa, which set off jubilant celebrations from the players and staff. On Monday, Zambia’s final game against Rwanda will hold the key to their destiny in the competition. The Zambian coach shared his thoughts on the first two games before delving into the final group battle against their East African opponents.

Against Morocco, Zambia chased the game but would eventually capitulate early in the fourth quarter. In a similar quarter against South Africa, this time in the final three minutes, Zambia held their nerve to get their first win of the tournament.

“The boys responded well, especially after the game against Morocco. We came out to play against South Africa. Now we have given ourselves a fighting chance going to the next game (against Rwanda),” said Mwale. “We used up a lot of energy on the defensive side against Morocco. Most of my key players burnt out, and the bench did not come to the fore. So, the bench needed to step up a little more. We did a little bit of that against South Africa.”

Mwale knows they have to maintain their discipline, especially in close games. So, a heart-to-heart discussion with his team ahead of the game against South Africa took place and it did the trick.

“We had long chats with players after the Morocco game… I think they understood the importance of maintaining the lead. For them to do that in the game against South Africa shows we are getting somewhere,” said Mwale. “It’s the first time these kids get to play at this level. So, with each game, there is a better understanding of what it means to play in a competition of this magnitude.”

Mwale also shared some insights he gathered for the crunch match against Rwanda. “They love to play a little fullcourt press. It’s been common (the fullcourt press) in this tournament and it’s something we have prepared for. What we need to do is execute our game plan and we will be ok,” said Mwale.

Also, some exciting prospects stepped up for Zambia in this tournament. Frank Siame, who ranks second in scoring (20.5 points per game), ninth in rebounding (9 rebounds per game) and sixth in rebounding (3.5 rebounds per game) has put his name on a pedestal.

Frank Siame in action
Frank Siame has been one of Zambia’s star players in U18 AfroBasket.

There are also the likes of Kelvin Mulenga (14 points and four assists per game) and Kelvin Mulenga (10.5 points per game), who set the scene alight for their country at this tournament.

“I am really impressed with these kids… It shows they have a bright future ahead of them. They have taken the challenge and told themselves, ‘We are gonna lead this team’. And they are doing that well,” said Mwale. “Game after game they have proved that they can play hard and push Zambia to greater heights.”

Zambia’s team unity and fighting spirit have made them worthy of a place in this tournament. A win over Rwanda keeps their hopes alive and for the fans, it will be a chance to enjoy Zambia’s competitiveness and good vibes.

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Negedu confident J’Tigress are headed in a winning direction

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(PRETORIA) The Nigeria women’s U18 program, which had languished in the wilderness for over a decade, has recently experienced a resuscitation, culminating in a third appearance at the ongoing U18 AfroBasket in Tshwane, South Africa.

Leading the revived Nigeria U18 team is Juliana Negedu, a 2004 Olympian and an assistant coach of the D’Tigress 2023 title-winning AfroBasket team.

Before speaking on the AfroBasket, she spoke glowingly about her experience at the Athens Olympics. The 45-year-old coach remembers the one victory they notched against South Korea in the classification game.

“We made history. We won one game – an African team winning a game in the Olympics. For me it was big. Going there, representing Africa and my country,” said Negedu.

Juliana Negedu on the sidelines
Juliana Negedu has the credentials and squad of players to win the U18 AfroBasket. Pictures: The BTO

Can Negedu’s experience as a player and contribution to the success of the D’Tigress in last year’s AfroBasket rub off on her team? The Nigerian coach felt the experience she had collected over time and working with the best people put her in a position to be successful.

“I know what happens on the court and off it. I have also played at the under-18 level and transitioned to the senior team. Apart from the Olympics, I have played in Europe. Those experiences put me in a position to coach the girls better,” said Negedu. “The AfroBasket success can also rub off on the group. Getting to work with Coach Rena (Wakama)… There are things I picked up that I can also implement in this tournament.”

The Nigerian coach and her team got their first taste of action in the U18 tournament against 2022 finalists Egypt in Group C on Monday – and the J’Tigress gave the North Africans a run for their money.

Negedu was far from disheartened by the 12-point loss (72-60) against the two-time champions. She felt following their long absence from the tournament, their performance against Egypt gave them a moral victory.

“It feels great. I know we were not able to get this one. Even though we lost, I believe we won. We have not been here for over a decade, and to perform the way we did is a sign of progress,” said Negedu. I feel the girls did well (against Egypt). We need to make a few adjustments, and we will be fine.”

Negedu spoke confidently about her team’s chances of bringing a maiden title at U18 level.

“My objective is to win. Win all the way and as I said already, even if we lose, I believe we have won. We are working on developing our talent and winning in the process,” said Negedu.”We are doing well, but we just need to get better in certain areas. The major goal is to win.”

Before the tournament in South Africa, Nigeria’s last participation in the U18 continental tournament was in 2008. Asked why this was the case, Negedu said, without being specific, that there were minor challenges.

“I think we were trying to figure out certain things to make that we get back here (to AfroBasket). I believe those small issues have been resolved and that why we are here today,” said Negedu.

The J’Tigress have two group phase matches left and they must Zimbabwe (on Thursday) and Uganda (on Saturday) to secure a place in the AfroBasket quarterfinals. Given Negedu’s confidence and how Nigeria held its own against Egypt, the idea of them being contenders for the title is not far-fetched.

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Hendricks confident SA can step up their on home court

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(PRETORIA) SOUTH African U18 team captain Taite Hendricks spoke with conviction in saying the men’s team should not be taken lightly ahead of their opening game at the FIBA U18 AfroBasket tournament.

On Tuesday (today), Hendricks will lead his team against the East African nation Rwanda at the University of Pretoria’s Rembrandt Hall, where the games are taking place.

Hendricks expressed his excitement at having the opportunity to captain the host nation on this momentous occasion for youth basketball.

“It was excitement and a little bit of nerves. It is a high-level tournament and there are going to be many eyes watching, so there will always be nerves. I am excited to get to play basketball at this level,” said Hendricks. “I am trying to lead by example… Trying to keep everyone’s spirits up. We must stay ready the whole time because you never know what can happen.”

Taite Hendricks and his teammates
Taite Hendricks, second row, feels his team will bring the right energy against Rwanda. Pictures: The BTO

Aware that his team may have a limitation or two, the St Charles pupil and his teammates are up for the job ahead.

“We are feeling excited. It’s good to see the variety that we have in our team. We are obviously an undersized team, but that is not going to deter us at all. We are going to put our best effort on the court and show that South Africa is not a team to play with,” said Hendricks

Like their female counterparts, the South African men’s team got together only a few days before the youth competition, meaning they must hastily adjust to the demands of the AfroBasket.

When asked if the lack of preparation had negatively affected the team, Hendricks gave a firm response.

“No this has not disturbed us at all. Whatever happens, happens. What need to do is focus on what we can control,” said Hendricks.

Ahead of the battle against Rwanda, Hendricks says he and his teammates “can’t wait to get started”.

“You can expect a lot of energy. Hard work on defence and hustling. We are going to give a hundred per cent out there. We can’t wait to get this thing (U18 AfroBasket) started,” said Hendricks.

 

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He also pointed to an area of the game where he and his teammates can potentially benefit.

“Defence… We are an undersized team, so our defence has got to be what separates us from everyone else. So when we hustle on defence, when we don’t give up rebounds and make we sure we are the best defensive team, it can help us win this tournament,” said Hendricks.

Going into this tournament, Hendricks and his teammates will have wise heads leading them from the sidelines. He hailed the appointments of senior men’s national team coaches Florsheim Ngwenya and Craig Gilchrist for the continental mission.

“They are legends of South African basketball. It’s incredible for the team to work with them at this level. We get to learn from coaches who are as experienced as they are and have so much knowledge of the game,” said Hendricks.

The journey to the AfroBasket seems like an epic ride for this young South African team, while the challenges of preparation are glaring, Hendricks did not waver from his tone of confidence, delivering this message for his team.

“We need to keep our heads up. Block out the external noise. Work as hard as we can because I believe we got this,” concluded Hendricks.

South Africa is in Group C, alongside Morocco, Rwanda and Zambia.

To see fixtures click on the FIBA U18 AfroBasket link.

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Taukobong embraces leadership challenge ahead of AfroBasket

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(PRETORIA) It has not been the best preparation for host nation South Africa going into this year’s FIBA U18 Women’s AfroBasket. Still, team captain Reatlegile Taukobong is taking the situation in her stride.

The South African team was assembled last Wednesday, giving them little time to prepare for the tournament, which starts on Monday. But on Saturday night’s media day, Taukobong, an MVP of this year’s National Women’s Inter-Provincial Tournament, and her teammates were in high spirits ahead of the AfroBasket.

While they were upbeat during the photo sessions, Taukobong was aware of their situation and acknowledged the feeling of “anxiety” within the team.

“We are happy that we can organise the tournament, but there is a feeling of anxiety about our preparedness. We know teams like Egypt have been preparing for a long time. They have had their team for months,” said Taukobong. “On our side, I feel our coaches are doing their best to get us on par with everything… With the team bonding, the time has been limited… But we are getting there.”

Reatlegile Taukobong SA team captain
Reatlegile Taukobong has to rally the South African team in the AfroBasket. Pictures: The BTO

With the added pressure of hosting the best from the continent, ensuring that the South African team is a cohesive unit is paramount and that partly rests on Taukobong’s shoulders.

She says her teammates have made it easy for her by understanding the role they need to play for collective success.

“They are a special group of players. One of the biggest fears in the team was not being able to connect, but when we saw each other, we instantly bonded,” said Taukobong. “At the practices, everyone is pushing hard. As captain, I don’t need to do much because everyone knows what they have to do. They all know what time to wake up. I don’t need to tell them, ‘Do this, do that’.

“It’s been amazing. I love this team.”

South Africa opens their Group A campaign against Rwanda at the University of Pretoria’s Rembrandt Hall – for the battle against the East Africans, Taukobong feels she and her teammates are for the task.

“One of the things we should all do is implement what we have been practising. Our camp was short, but we did not run in the sun for hours and hours for nothing. Also, our communication needs work, especially in defence. I feel like once we have that going then we will be good,” said Taukobong.

Reatlegile Taukobong
Reatlegile Taukobong won the U18 Inter-Provincial Tournament with Gauteng and was the competition’s MVP.

Asked what she would want to gain from the AfroBasket competition, Taukobong, a camper at Basketball Without Borders, says she hopes to excel in leadership.

“… Because I am captain (of the national team), I want to learn how it feels to lead a country. I am leading South Africa. At the end of the tournament, I am going to ask my coach how I did as captain. I want to know if I am a good enough leader,” said Taukobong. “Also, we are playing against other countries from the African continent is going to be great exposure and experience.”

Taukobong holds a positive outlook and she understands that this tournament is a learning curve for the South African team. Despite the troubled preparation she now has to rally her troops on the court to give the best version of themselves against the best on the African continent.

2024 FIBA U18 Women’s AfroBasket fixtures:

1 pm: Tunisia vs Cameroon

3.30 pm: South Africa vs Rwanda

6 pm: Egypt vs Nigeria

8:30 pm: Zimbabwe vs Uganda

 

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Aboya answers call to serve young ballers and Indomitable Lions

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“YOU have to leave things before things leave you.” This was the philosophical answer of Cameroon-born coach Alfred Aboya when asked why he retired early in his professional playing career.

Aboya says his body took a pounding on the court, and after six years, he listened to it (his body) and decided to call it quits. Despite calling it a day as a player, the game still flowed in his veins, and coaching would be his next port of call. While learning the ropes of calling the shots from the sidelines, Aboya also decided to further his education.

“I have had a few knee surgeries – a total of six. So when your body gets beat down the way mine did, then you have to find other avenues,” said Aboya. “I tried different things. I decided to be a graduate assistant to get my Masters. During that time, I was figuring other things out.

“Those two years I worked to get my Masters and working as a graduate assistant, I found myself again. I got the calling. I was able to do that (coaching) at the college and moved to a G League team, Iowa Wolves.”

Alfred Aboya in Johannesburg
Alfred Aboya says the NBA Academy has elevated youth basketball in Africa. Pictures: The BTO

Following the G League stint, Aboya returned to the African continent, where he felt his knowledge would be of greater use to the youngsters at the Senegal-based NBA Academy.

“I felt my expertise would have a significant impact on the continent, so when the Academy called I moved back. I was also able to join the (Cameroon) national team as an assistant,” said the former UCLA Bruins player.

Aboya also highlighted the work of the Academy on the continent. “The Academy works with an exclusive group of kids. There are 54 countries in Africa, and its stronghold is the youth. So we can only select a few of them – and they are the best in their age group,” said Aboya.

“The one thing they bring to practice is their energy and a willingness to work. We impact kids here year in and year out – when other kids around the continent see that, it motivates them,” said Aboya. “Last year, we had Ulrich (Chomche) in the Academy – now he is in the NBA. I think that can only motivate his peers that are still there. It also validates the work that we do on the ground – being able to develop talent. And it’s talent that is able to leave the continent straight to the NBA. That is the most gratifying thing since I joined the Academy.”

 

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Still on grassroots, especially in Cameroon, Aboya is happy they are sending the men and women teams to the U18 AfroBasket in South Africa (September 1 – September 14). Aboya pointed out that Cameroon has been in the wilderness in youth competitions, and investing in the future has become crucial.

“For the longest time, Cameroon has not had junior under-18 teams. We have had athletes who left the country to make careers overseas,” said Aboya. “Youth development is important because kids develop friendships early. When they get to the seniors, they know each other. It (development) helps with the team’s cohesion.

“It’s fantastic. The federation is doing a great thing by sending the youth to these competitions.”

While the juniors prepare for battle in South Africa, Aboya must prepare the senior men’s team for the 2025 AfroBasket qualifiers in November.

Before speaking on the (AfroBasket) qualifiers, he reflected on the experience of their Latvia leg of the Olympic Qualifying Tournaments (OQT). Cameroon saw their valiant pursuit for a spot in the Olympics halted by the host nation in the semi-finals earlier in July.

“It was one thing to qualify for the Olympic Qualifying Tournament and another to participate in it. The big lesson (from the Olympic qualifiers) was that we could compete with the so-called big basketball nations,” said Aboya, who was on a similar stage as a player ahead of the 2008 Beijing Games. “We competed against Georgia, which is 68th in the world, Montenegro (ranked 17th), Latvia (ranked 62nd) and Brazil, which is ranked 12th. And we beat them (Brazil) and lost to Montenegro by four, so we could hang with those countries.

“We belong. It is matter of going back and organising our basketball from the youth level. We must ensure the national team is enticing for our star players and that they find pride wearing that jersey.”

Alfred Aboya has high hopes for Cameroon in the AfroBasket qualifiers. Picture: FIBA

With the AfroBasket qualifiers around the corner, Aboya feels like all eyes will be on Cameroon, who are in Group C alongside Senegal, Rwanda and Gabon.

“Now that we have had a bit of success, other players will want to be part of the team. I’m sure we will have a bigger pool of players to work with. It will be a great problem for us,” said Aboya. “… I am looking forward to that (AfroBasket Qualifiers). It will be a hell of a competition. We saw what South Sudan has accomplished. And they have set the bar so high, first at the World Cup (in 2023) and recently at the Olympics.

“There are great teams at the qualifiers. I hope the actual tournament will be the same. I am trying to find adjectives to explain what kind of tournament we can expect… It will be a highly competitive tournament.”

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Davids talks CUCSA Games gold and hopes for her women’s team

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THESLINE Davids is one of South Africa’s most visible coaches on the sidelines. It shows up in her display of passion and celebration when a play she’s drawn out is executed to a tee by her players or a great defensive effort at the other end of the court.

While leading the national student women’s team to the 2024 CUCSA Games victory at the University of Pretoria (TUKS) the previous week, the Cape Town-born coach barely sat on the South African team bench, preferring to stand and eck her team as they marched from one victory to the next until the gold was secured.

Davids, who also coaches Tuks, says her energetic displays on the sidelines have been part of her DNA since she could play the game.

“I am a passionate coach. I played basketball. And because I love it so much, I celebrate every small or big thing we do on the court. What you saw at that tournament (CUCSA Games) was what I would do at a junior tournament. It’s all heart. And it means more when you do these things for your country,” said Davids.

“I am genuinely always locked in and showing my kids that I am with them every step of the way. When they take a charge, draw a foul or get a bucket, I celebrate that, but I am also hard on them. I also pick them up when they need a lift during games.”

The experienced coach continued: “That’s who I am. I am a passionate coach. I love my kids, basketball, and my country.”

 

Thesline Davids during a time out
South African team coach Thesline Davids built her team into a cohesive unit. Pictures: The BTO

The feeling of being a champion will take time to wear off on Davids, who listed a few adjectives to describe her jovial state. Winning the tournament at home also made it that extra special.

“It was emotional. I was happy. I was grateful and excited to see my kids achieve the goal. From the first camp, we set ourselves the goal of winning here at home. There is a certain feeling that you get when you play these competitions at home,” said Davids.

“Before, we were competing in Botswana, Zambia, or Malawi. So, this was the first time I got to coach a national team and have a home-court advantage. Also, going undefeated was massive for us. It spoke volumes about our commitment and heart. The kids put in a lot of work to get us over the finish line.”

What impressed Davids more about her team’s achievement was that despite most of them being rookies on the international stage, they acquitted themselves well.

“We have done exceptionally well given most of these girls have never played international basketball. I only had one player who played in AfroBasket qualifiers at the under-16 level in Botswana a few years ago,” said Davids.

“The rest of the players did not understand how this competition works. Playing at the CUCSAs meant so much because people could now see that kids who did not get these opportunities when they were younger compete and deliver for South Africa.”

 

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Talita Memani, crowned basketball tournament MVP, and national team captain Ulwethu Vacu, who earned All-Star honours, earned praise from Davids for contributing to the team’s success.

“Olwethu is the heart of the team. She drove us. It was awesome to finally get a chance to coach her rather than against her. She led by example. Whether it’s diving for the ball, fighting for a second possession or scoring a tough basket, she led by example. She made it easy for us because she is a great leader,” said Davids about the Vaal University of Technology point guard. “When she got the All-Star, I knew she would get it because she worked hard and everybody saw it. The number of bruises she had from the tournament when I last saw her showed what she was willing to do.”

Davids felt a sense of pride about the University of Western Cape centre Memani’s achievement as they both hail from the same city.

“Talita… I think she is just a special kid. I come from Cape Town. So, having her in the national team was a proud moment,” said the former University of Cape Town coach excitedly. “Seeing her footwork and her being in control of everything was incredible. She got double-doubles in every game and out-rebounded other bigs. She inspired the other post players to do better.”

CUCSA Games 2024
Thesline Davids was proud of the achievements of team South Africa captain Olwethu Vacu and Talita Memani during the 2024 CUCSA Games.

The former Hershel Girls School coach felt bigs in the country are unappreciated and felt the tournament was the right platform to put their talents on a pedestal.

“This tournament was not about our guards. This tournament was about our post players. Also, remember here in South Africa, we do not respect our post players enough. So, I gave them a chance to show what they can do,” said Davids. “Her (Memani) backups like Chi (Eneanya), Nyeleti (Nyathi) and Umtha (Sibam) made a difference when they came in. Yeah, but Talita was the fire in the team… It was awesome to coach her.”

The future is bright for this group of players, says Davids. She hopes there will be exposure to more opportunity in the coming year.

“I hope this encourages people to see that more competition is needed for the national team. I hope we can get to the World Student Games in Germany next year,” said Davids. “If we expose these kids to more basketball, they can only get better. Most of the players are under the age of 23… So they have a lot years to give to us. They have put in the work. Hopefully, they will continue to inspire the next generation to do the same.”

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Matsie, Kweyama focus on big picture ahead of CUCSA Games

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TSHEPO Matsie and Thanda Kweyama usually sit at opposing ends of benches during basketball games. Still, for the next couple of days, the two men will work hand in hand to plot South Africa’s success in the 2024 CUCSA Games starting on Monday in the country’s capital, Tshwane.

Matsie, head coach of the Tshwane University Technology (TUT) men’s team and Kweyama, who sits at the helm of rivals University Pretoria, have fought many battles against each other on the court.

But on Sunday after a scrimmage game against Egoli Magic at the University of Pretoria’s Rembrandt Hall, both men sang from the same hymn sheet about the national cause being a priority. National team head coach Matsie says he and his assistant Kweyama have a friendship off the court.

“We both understand what is required… Despite the basketball stuff, he and I (Kweyama) are actually good friends off the court. Apart from that, USSA has appointed us to lead the team, so things like rivalry must be put aside. Right now the focus is to represent the country to the best of our abilities,” said Matsie.

Tshepo Matsie
Tshepo Matsie will rely on the experienced heads of his team for this year’s CUCSA Games. Pictures: The BTO

Kweyama noted that while the coaches are from opposing institutions – it is the same for the players. He also pointed out that they are learning from each other.

“We are working towards a common goal, so there is no clash of egos… Like ‘You beat me or I beat you this many times’. There is a common goal,” said Kweyama. “Also, most of the guys here are from rival schools, so it’s a good learning experience and where we get to share ideas and impart wisdom.”

Kweyama, a former TUT student and Pretoria Boys High School pupil will be experiencing his first taste of international basketball. He described getting the opportunity as a “dream come true”.

“It’s a dream come true. As the saying goes, patience is a virtue, so when you quietly and eagerly wait, these opportunities will come at the right time. So this is exciting for me,” said Kweyama.

“This is a learning process and I am getting used to the requirements at this level. So, this is also a humbling moment.  

Matsie, while a first-time head coach, has had experience at the international level. The former Tshwane Suns player was an assistant to Mandla Ngema during the FISU World Student Games in China last year.

South African team assistant coach Thanda Kweyama
South African assistant coach Thanda Kweyama is excited to coach the CUCSA Games.

The two-time BNL champion says the Games in China were an eye-opener for him and gave him important insights on where South Africa needs to focus on, in its development curve.

“The level of basketball played around the world is different. Knowing what the international standards look like was great and when we returned home, we knew the adjustments we needed to make,” said Matsie.

“If you looked at the game we played (against the Magic), the intensity was high, meaning we can play at this level. It’s also good we have players who have competed at that level (FISU Games) returning to the team. We need that experience and it’s a big plus for us.”

Basketball in South Africa has been experiencing somewhat of a revival. Having hosted one leg of the Basketball Africa League and with the U18 AfroBasket for men and women coming to the country in a couple of months, it is clear that basketball in South Africa will be the big winner.

“This is huge for us. I think we are at a point where basketball is growing in the country. Hosting these kinds of tournaments will give confidence to players who play and those that aspire to play the game. They will see that there is an outlet for them,” said Matsie. “We are hosting the CUCSA Games now. Soon we will be hosting the U18 AfroBasket. From a basketball perspective in our country, we need this.”

The last word went to Kweyama. “It’s exciting times. I wish this happened every other year. People have the opportunity to see the value of the sport. If we can build on this momentum then we can have more people invest in basketball in the country,” concluded Kweyama.

Today’s games:

Women: South Africa vs Malawi at 6 pm (South Africa time)

Men: South Africa vs Zimbabwe at 8 pm (South Africa time)

Matsie, Kweyama focus on big picture ahead of CUCSA Games Read More »

Indomitable Lions will bring their physicality to Olympic qualifiers

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CAMEROON could have the element of surprise on their side when they begin their FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament journey in Riga, Latvia (2-7 July). The Indomitable Lions, an unknown quantity, surprised many by getting this far, but can they go further in this year’s qualifiers?

Team Profile: Cameroon

The Indomitable Lions will be regarded by many, including their opponents and neutrals, as the underdogs of the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament (OQT). But this crop of Cameroon players will be unbothered by the tag of underdogs as they vie for a ticket to the Paris Games (26 July – 11 August).

It will be Cameroon’s second attempt at qualifying for the Games after having a dismal campaign in 2008 OQT, where the Lions could not win a single fixture.

Jeremiah Hill of Cameroon
Cameroon’s star player Jeremiah Hill will be expected to raise the bar in the Olympic Qualifying Tournament. Pictures: FIBA

Star Players: Cameroon will lean on the talent of naturalised point guard Jeremiah Hill, who helped the Central African nation secure their ticket in the pre-qualifiers in Nigeria last year.

Hill’s 18 points per game, three rebounds per game and 9.3 assists helped contribute to Cameroon’s unbeaten run in the pre-Olympic Qualifiers. In a recent interview with FIBA Africa, Hill said the Lions will bring their “own African style” in the qualifiers.

“It will be hard… But they are players like we are players. We will bring our own African style. We are going to have to be physical. I think that will be our biggest advantage. Hopefully, it will go well,” said Hill.

Another key player for Cameroon is Jordan Bayehe of the Italian club New Basket Brindisi, who made his presence felt for the Lions with 13.8 points per game, eight rebounds per game and 1.5 assists per game in the qualifiers.  

Samir Gbetkom became a key contributor to the Lions during the pre-Olympic qualifiers with 11.5 points per game, 2.3 rebounds per game and 3.5 assists per game. Gbetkom, who plays in the French Pro-B, has made a huge leap for Cameroon since playing in the 2021 AfroBasket and 2023 FIBA World Cup qualifiers.

Coach: Alfred Aboya, a former national team player, will remember the disappointing campaign of 2008. Having helped Cameroon successfully navigate the pre-qualifier hurdle, Aboya could see these Olympic Qualifying tournaments as his shot at making amends for missing out on the Games 16 years ago.

Alfred Aboya coaching Cameroon
Cameroon coach Alfred Aboya is familiar with the Olympic Qualifying Tournament terrain.

Group B Match-Ups: Cameroon will face a strong Montenegro team in their opening group game and South American juggernaut Brazil, two-time World Cup winners. 

The Cameroonians will have received a significant confidence boost going into the qualifiers after defeating Egypt and Georgia in friendly games. But the true test of Cameroon’s character will be in their two Group B Games. 

Outlook: It would be much easier to write off the chances of Cameroon in the upcoming qualifiers because of their lack of experience, and even if their task looks impossible, this group got this far by doing the impossible.

Indomitable Lions will bring their physicality to Olympic qualifiers Read More »

Can Angola end their 16 year Olympic Games absence?

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WE share insights on Angola’s chances at the upcoming FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournaments (2-7 July). The qualifiers will take place in four cities (San Juan, Puerto Rico; Riga, Latvia; Valencia, Spain and Pireuas, Greece).

Team Profile: Angola

Angola used to be the epitome of success in African basketball. The 11-time African champions regularly participate in global competitions like the FIBA World Cup, but the Olympic Games have become a different story.  

Africa’s most decorated team last graced the Games 16 years ago (2008) and will try to end the dry spell when they begin their Olympic Qualifying Tournament campaign in Spain, which serves as the qualifiers for this year’s Game in Paris (26 July and 11 August).

Jilson Bango playing for Angola
Jilson Bango was a star performer for Angola in the 2025 AfroBasket qualifiers. Pictures: FIBA

Star players: The Angolans certainly do not lack in the talent department. With a strong contingent of internationally based players, Angola can lean on the likes of NBA player Bruno Fernando, Greece-based Silvio de Sousa and Jilson Bango, who plays his basketball in Germany.

Bango was in impeccable form during the 2025 AfroBasket qualifiers – averaging 18 points and 7.7 rebounds in Angola’s first three matches. The Angolans will rely on the forward to bring the same form with him to Spain.

De Sousa and Atlanta Hawks player Fernando had solid performances in last year’s World Cup and will provide Angola with muscle in the paint.

Of the local contingent, the trio of Childe Dundao, Gerson Goncalves and Abubaker Gakou, who were part of the Petro de Luanda team that won BAL Season 4, will give Angola an added shot in the arm following Petro’s continental triumph.

Dundao, a star performer for Angola at the FIBA World Cup (14 points and 5.2 assists), has been a model of consistency for the national team. The pint-sized floor general’s 15 points per game and 6.7 assists per game in the 2025 AfroBasket qualifiers is a testament to him being an asset to Angola.

Childe Dundao in action for Angola
Childe Dundao has been consistent for Angola in international competition.

Group A Match-Ups: Angola will take on two-time FIBA World Cup champions, three-time European champions and Olympic Qualifiers host Spain and Middle East nation Lebanon.

Angola will likely struggle against the highly successful Spanish team and fancy their chances against the Lebanese.

Outlook: The Southern Africans will most likely get past the group stage of the qualifiers. But Angola will struggle in the knock-out phases as they will face strong competition from any opponent that makes it out of the Group B leg in Valencia.

Can Angola end their 16 year Olympic Games absence? Read More »

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