THE African Blogtable has brought together some of the top minds in basketball from across the continent to answer some of the most pressing questions during the 2023-24 NBA season.
The race to the NBA Cup is finally coming to an end. The first NBA In-Season Tournament (IST) final tips off on December 10 (Sunday) with a battle between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Indiana Pacers (03:30 a.m. CAT on NBA League Pass).
In a thrilling week of IST games, the last showdown takes place in Las Vegas.
The IST Final will feature two players from Africa, the Pacers’ Oscar Tshiebwe from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and the Lakers’ Rui Hachimura (Japan) with ties to Benin.
The NBA In-Season Tournament (IST) champions will be crowned this weekend. What are your predictions going into the final?
Your breakout player of the tournament?
Sindiswa Mabunda, The Big Tip Off (South Africa)
Indiana Pacers combo-guard Tyrese Haliburton is my breakout player of the IST. Haliburton has been phenomenal, making pivotal plays in the opening game against the Cleveland Cavaliers. He also led a second-half comeback against the Boston Celtics, the second-best defensive team in the league. Haliburton’s playmaking abilities shone in the quarterfinals. He secured his first career triple-double while helping the Pacers secure a huge win over Boston.
He puts his teammates in positions that change the game’s momentum, showing how he utilizes the depth of the young team. The Pacers have put the league on notice and Haliburton is a rising star on one of the biggest stages the NBA has to offer.
Even though the Lakers aren’t firing on all cylinders to start the 2023-24 season, this is their chance to stamp their authority by winning an early title.
Los Angeles’ proximity to Las Vegas, will give their fans will also be key in inspiring them to victory. Apart from LeBron James, another player to watch is forward Anthony Davis, who is athletic and a good ball handler. He also shone in the quarter-finals against the Suns.
My breakout player of the tournament is Tyrese Haliburton, who is propelling the NBA’s best offence with the Indiana Pacers. Despite not having playoff experience, he has managed to handle pressure and played a key role in the Pacers’ undefeated run. His stats have been phenomenal as Haliburton has been the only player in the NBA averaging at least 25 points and 11 assists a night this season.
Damas Sikawubo, The New Times (Rwanda)
I am betting on the Los Angeles Lakers. Powered by LeBron James, the Lakers remain unbeaten, and I don’t think the Indiana Pacers will change that.
My prediction for the Lakers to win is not just attributed to LeBron, who, in my view, had a strong performance in the inaugural tournament, but the whole group.
The Lakers earned the top seed in the West by going unbeaten in the group stage of the inaugural tournament, and should Darvin Ham’s boys work on closing out games, the title could head to California.
Austin Reaves stands out as my breakout player, as for stars Anthony Davis and LeBron James, they will do their thing in the final.
James has been making and breaking records for over two decades, but the fun part of the In-Season Tournament is its newness and he has a chance to set records that other players will one day aspire to break.
Through five games, he ranks ninth in the tournament in total points (131), fourth in assists (41), fifth in steals (nine) and 16th in rebounds (40).
Austin Reaves has to show up to the party, for such aspirations to come to reality.
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.
IN the final game of the Road To BAL Elite 16 Division East between the Cape Town Tigers and City Oilers (Uganda) – won by the Tigers last Sunday – the DJ played a familiar tune synonymous with victory in certain sporting quarters, Nkalakatha by Mandoza.
The popular Kwaito classic marked the national rugby team’s – the Springboks – Rugby World Cup triumph in October. Now courtesy of the Tigers’ third Basketball Africa League qualification, basketball got to enjoy Mandoza’s timeless banger.
Amidst the music and posing for team photos, Tigers’ star player Samkelo Cele went courtside to catch up with former teammates and friends.
He also took a few minutes to engage with some teenage fans before heading to the changeroom to take more team photos. Once there, they popped open and sprayed celebratory champagne. Whilst the celebrations continued in the changeroom, head coach Florsheim Ngwenya, his assistant Vincent Ntunja, team manager Elvis Ukpong, and other Tigers players sprinted to half-court.
As the changing room emptied, Cele was among the last few to leave. After freshening up, he caught up with The Big Tip Off to discuss his role at the Tigers, the support he got upon returning to South Africa, being a role model to younger players, his Elite 16 experience, and how the Tigers can improve their chances in Season 4 of The BAL.
Samkelo Cele has embraced his sixth-man role at the Tigers. Pictures: FIBA
Twenty-five-year-old, Cele was impactful at both ends of the court during BAL season 3 and the recently concluded Elite 16. He positively contributed every time he was on the floor, despite taking the sixth-man role – one he fulfilled at this year’s BAL Season 3.
Prior to joining the team, the former Durban High School (DHS) student met with the coaching staff, who explained their expectation of him. He knew he had a much bigger role to play on the team. And even when he is having a bad game, Cele is still the go-to guy.
The electrifying small forward contributes to the bulk of the scoring in most of the games they play. He intimated that he was not concerned about not getting a starting role.
Cele, a former University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma Drovers player, knows he has to continue doing a good job on the court.
Playing in an arena where you could hear a pin drop on most days, Cele could not help but notice the cheers from a handful of fans who trickled in to watch the Tigers’ games. Whenever the former All-American made a steal, shot from deep, or even threw it down for an electrifying dunk, it drew cheers from the small crowd.
This energy reminded Cele of his DHS days and made him feel at home. However, this time around, the support was a little different.
“When I played here in high school, I never felt the support and now I see it, I feel it and I am trying to embrace it as best as I possibly can,” said Cele who averaged 23 points and three rebounds per game during the Elite 16.
He recognized familiar faces and voices from his days at DHS amongst the crowd. One, in particular, was Dali Dzingwa, the general manager of the Basketball National League (BNL). Dzingwa is also his high school best friend’s father.
Cele shared: “Sicelo (Dzingwa) is my best friend and was a teammate in high school. His dad used to be very involved in our games and would talk to us from the sidelines. For the first time in years, when we played the NBA Academy, he called my name from the side and was coaching me again. It felt like high school all over again.”
Cele appreciated the support he received and recognized the impact it had on aspiring basketball players. Reflecting on his journey, he acknowledges the lack of role models for him to follow. Now he is grateful to be in a position where he can inspire and guide the next generation.
“I think that it is good for the kids coming up to see me being one of the main guys on the team. Them being able to interact with me has been cool,” said Cele.
In preparation for the Elite 16 competition, Cele and the Tigers faced a scarcity of scrimmage games, especially at the BAL level. Instead, they only played a few games against local clubs, which they won by a large margin. Although this seemed like a risky strategy, Cele believes it brought the team together.
“There is a saying that you’ve gotta stay ready to get ready, and I feel like all of us were always like that. We just had to adjust on the fly, and the more games we played, the better we became,” said Cele. Despite the lack of high-level competition, Cele doesn’t believe it impacted their readiness for the Elite 16.
The team’s reliance on each other and ability to adapt to different situations helped them bond. It ultimately made them one unit. As Cele put it, “I doubt it affected us, but it did force us to be a team. I don’t know if anyone noticed, but we moved the ball a little more than the previous times.”
Two days before the Elite 16 tournament, the Tigers faced off against the NBA Academy in an exhibition game. The young prospects surprised the Tigers with a win over the South African champions. However, Cele didn’t seem too concerned about the loss. He believes it wasn’t significant as they beat the Academy in their final group game later that week.
Samkelo Cele says winning rebounds will be key if the Tigers are to succeed at next year’s BAL.
According to Cele, “It was just an exhibition game, so we didn’t take it too seriously. We saw how they played in the first game and made the necessary adjustments in the second game (Elite 16), which we won.”
“We treated it as a game against the kids… To help them improve, because they represent the future of our continent.”
The Elite 16 final was a showdown between well-acquainted opponents. The Tigers and Oilers faced each other in last year’s (Elite 16) semi-finals and group stages of BAL Season 3. Having secured their tickets to next year’s BAL, the battle between the two teams was for bragging rights.
“When you play, you always wanna win so the final did matter. You always want to be able to say how many times you beat a team. When they had the chance to beat you – they couldn’t,” said the former Marist College Red Foxes player.
Regarding their victory, Cele recognizes its significance for setting the standard of preparation for the Kalahari Conference in South Africa.
Reflecting on the Tigers’ performance last season, he pointed out the team’s lack of rebounding as a major issue.
“I think that both times we lost, it was due to rebounding. The more we rebound, the better our chances are. I feel like we can play against any team on the continent,” said Cele.
Cele recalls the experience of playing against Stade Malien, who eliminated the Tigers in the quarter-finals. “I feel like talent-wise, they did not match up to us, but they out-hustled us and won every 50/50 ball. They out-rebounded us on both ends of the floor, so it’s rebounding,” says Cele.
“Most of the games we won were where we were good at rebounding. We give ourselves a chance if we rebound the ball well.”
Cele and the Tigers have ample time to fix their deficiencies and by the time the Kalahari Conference begins next year, they should be ready to roar.
Group A features host Cape Town Tigers, NBA Academy (Senegal), Dynamo (Burundi), and Pazi Basketball Club (Tanzania). Meanwhile, Group B comprises formidable opponents: City Oilers (Uganda), Ferroviário da Beira (Mozambique), COSPN (Madagascar), and JBC (Zimbabwe).
As the tournament approaches, anticipation grows for the return of familiar faces and the emergence of new stars. While playing on home turf, Cape Town Tigers seek victory but face the historical challenge of overcoming Burundian opponents. Bolstered by international players Terrance Ferguson, Cartier Diarra, and Terry Larrier, along with the expertise of 2023 All-Defensive player Samkelo Bryan Cele and BNL MVP, Nkosinathi Sibanyoni, the Tigers should be a competitive team.
The City Oilers, playing in their third Elite 16, bring size and physicality, making them top contenders for the coveted tickets. The acquisition of Dane and the return of Germain Roebuck Jr ensures that the Oilers will bring their A-Game.
Ferroviário de Beira has bolstered their ranks with new talent. The team’s star point guard, Will Perry, has reunited with Jermel Kennedy and Bourouma Sidibe. Former FAP centre Michael Mendes will provide depth in the front court. With Beira’s impressive offensive prowess and ability to shoot the ball well from behind the arc, they are one of the favourites for the tournament.
COSPN will have to improve after finishing winless last year. The Malagasy club will, again, be led by Bishop Coulter and Livio Ratianarivo. The team can look to build on their success so far in this year’s qualifiers and take advantage of the extended preparation period that the delay of the Elite 16 has provided them.
Newcomers Dynamo JBC and Pazi Basketball Club make their Elite 16 debut, aiming to establish their presence. JBC, reinforced by notable signings, seeks to elevate Zimbabwean basketball to new heights. Dynamo, awarded a wild card by FIBA, aims to rectify their only loss in the qualifiers behind the strength of teen sensation Israel Otobo.
Pazi Basketball Club, led by Cleveland Thomas and former NBA pick Hasheem Thabeet, finished undefeated in pre-qualifiers. The last-minute additions of Cleveland Thomas jr and Mareng Gatkouth give Pazi a lot of depth aside from their giant centre. Thabeet’s paint protection poses a challenge. The Tigers could struggle as they are thin in that department.
Hasheem Thabeet will be a key player for Pazi. Picture: FIBA
The NBA Academy, here for participation only, are led by rising star Khaman Maluach. He will be the X-factor in the tournament in this qualifying tournament. The Dakar-based Academy players held their own against the Tigers in a friendly on Sunday, winning 70-64. This young group of players will be no pushovers in Group A.
The tournament promises a display of incredible basketball skills, combining past matchups with the introduction of new teams. Stay tuned for updates and witness the competition unfold!
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.
JERMEL Kennedy wants a return to the Basketball Africa League (BAL). In his quest to achieve this desire, he has returned to Ferroviario da Beira. But before he can even dream of a second BAL appearance, Kennedy and Beira must navigate the Elite 16 Division East tipping-off in Johannesburg, South Africa (21 November – 26 November).
The veteran forward, who played for the Mozambican club in their BAL debut (2022), spent time overseas and in his home country, Canada. He spoke to the Big Tip Off about his return to Beira and the upcoming Elite 16. Kennedy also talked about his experience of the basketball scene in South Africa.
The 34-year-old’s decision to rejoin coach Luis Hernandez’s team results from a strong and positive relationship between the two. Despite having offers from elsewhere, the prospect of playing in the BAL swayed Kennedy’s decision.
The relationship between Kennedy and his Spanish coach begun a few years earlier. Although Kennedy couldn’t recall the exact year, he and Hernandez have stayed connected from around 2019. “We see basketball for the most part through the same lens, so we mesh well,” Kennedy recalled.
Jermel Kennedy says his bond with coach Luis Hernandez led him back to Beira. Pictures: The BTO
In their debut season, Beira failed to progress past the group stages, ending with a disappointing 1-4 record. Despite this, Kennedy viewed the experience as a valuable lesson. It taught him and the team the importance of making an impact within the short window that the BAL provides. He acknowledges that the team needs to improve rapidly to compete against other African clubs. Also, they cannot take their time for granted – whether on the court, watching film, or in the weight room. Unlike countries with longer leagues, they must progress quickly.
After that season, Kennedy had various options to consider, including playing in the United Kingdom’s British Basketball League (BBL). However, he ultimately decided to return to Canada to join The Saskatchewan Rattlers for his fourth season in the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL).
Kennedy has previously played in the CEBL during the offseason to stay active and improve, and he felt that playing at home would be a bonus, allowing his family and friends to see him in action. As he explains, “Although I had the option to play in the BBL, which was appealing at the time, it’s always great to have the opportunity to play at home.”
In an impressive Elite 16 Road to BAL performance last year, Beira proved their mettle as a serious contender, finishing second only to the Cape Town Tigers last year. Emboldened by their success, Beira set out to conquer the BAL Season 3 with renewed vigour.
Despite a valiant effort that took them to the playoffs, Beira was unfortunately eliminated by Senegal’s AS Douanes in the quarter-finals.
Kennedy’s initial visit to Beira left a lasting impression on him. The strong bond he had developed with Coach Hernandez and his team members left a lasting impact. This connection made his decision to return to Southern Africa an easy one.
“The coach approached me about the prospect of coming back, and I knew that my good friend Will Perry was also planning to return. I’ve always enjoyed playing alongside him, and our shared history of winning only made the decision more obvious.”
Kennedy, it seems, has found it easy to settle in with the team. He feels like he has never left Beira.
“I have built strong relationships with all my teammates and it’s as if I’ve seamlessly picked up where I left off,” said Kennedy. “We have great camaraderie. There are a few changes to the team… But I’m excited to see the impact we can make this time around”
Kennedy shared his thoughts on the growth of basketball on the African continent. His views come in light of the expanded BAL Season 4, which will see South Africa host the new Kalahari Conference early next year. He contrasted this with the CEBL, which is also in its early stages of development.
“Despite operating on different continents, both the CEBL and BAL share similar frameworks that have led to solid growth. They offer opportunities to players worldwide, fostering diversity and talent exchange. Innovative marketing, fan engagement, and partnerships contribute to their success,” said Kennedy.
Jermel Kennedy says Beira has to improve vastly if they qualify for the BAL.
Kennedy got a taste of the South African basketball culture when he participated in the 2022 Ashraf Lodewyk Memorial tournament alongside Beira teammate Will Perry. From that experience, Kennedy feels teams that will qualify for the Kalahari Conference are in for a treat.
“I think the energy and the passion of the fans in South Africa is underrated,” said the forward. “I think teams will be surprised by the number of fans that will be in attendance and their knowledge of basketball.”
With Kennedy’s versatility, a readiness to take on any role, and a winning mindset, he can make the team tick. The Canadian will be a key piece to Beira’s quest for a third BAL appearance.
* Beira are in Group B in the Elite 16 alongside COSPN (Madagascar) and City Oilers (Uganda), JBC (Zimbabwe).
THE Basketball Africa League (BAL) today (Wednesday) announced that the league’s expanded fourth season will tip off in March 2024 in South Africa.
The 2024 BAL season will feature the top 12 club teams from 12 African countries playing a record 48 games across four countries – South Africa, Egypt, Senegal and Rwanda – over four months. This is a milestone for South Africa, and the league, as the competition touches North, East, West and South corners of the continent.
Also, for the first time, the 12 teams will be divided into three conferences of four teams each. Each conference will play a 12-game group phase during which each team will face the other three teams in its conference twice. The inaugural Kalahari Conference group phase will take place in March, followed by the Nile Conference group phase in April and the Sahara Conference group phase in May. The top two teams from each conference and the top two third-place teams from across the three conferences will travel to Rwanda for four seeding games followed by an eight-game single-elimination Playoffs and Finals from May – June.
The BAL will announce the host cities, venues, dates and information about how to purchase tickets for the 2024 BAL season in the coming weeks. Beginning today, fans can register their interest in tickets to games in all four markets atBAL.NBA.com.
The BAL also today announced Afreximbank as an official partner of the 2024 BAL season. The BAL and Afreximbank will collaborate on “BAL Advance,” a new program that aims to support the holistic development of BAL players and teams based on their specific needs, goals, projects and interests. The program will offer players professional development opportunities within the broader sports industry, including in event management, broadcasting, analytics, technology, and more.
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.”
