Cape Verde prepared for dog-fight in tough group

“We are focused. We have prepared well”

JOEL Almeida’s transition to basketball came as a way of him trying something new . Like most youngsters on the African continent, Cape Verde-born Almeida started out playing football, but the basketball bug bit in his mid-teens and he never looked back.

Since then, Almeida’s career has seen him traverse different parts of the world. Beginning with the college system in the United States of America. The 35-year old would later play in his country of birth, Angola, Cyprus, Greece, Portugal and now Georgia, where he plays for BC Kutaisi.

“I started playing football. I switched to basketball when I was 15. I moved to the States for junior college and later college. I then made the move to Europe to play professionally and I have been there since 2009,” said Almeida, who elaborated on his change to basketball. “I wanted to try new things. Football is the main sport in Cape Verde. But, when I was growing up, I tried many sports as well. My friends convinced me to try basketball. They saw my height and were sure I would be good at it. I tried and eventually fell in love with it.”

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Having played in the parts of the world that he has, the shooting guard is well versed in different basketball cultures, which matured him as a player.

Playing in the US and Europe, you learn that the approach to the game is different. Adapting to different styles helps you grow as a player. It gives you more experience and a different outlook. When you encounter certain situations on the court, you will know how to adjust,” said Almeida, who played for Mowhawk Valley Community College in America.

Almeida’s approach and experience will come in handy for Cape Verde. The island nation, begin the final leg of the Afrobasket qualifiers in Monastir, Tunisia today.

Holding a 1-2 record from the opening window in Rwanda last year, Cape Verde have to show a marked improvement when they tip-off against Morocco in group E. The Cape Verdeans hold the psychological edge over the Moroccans, having beaten them last year. Their two defeats in the group, came at the hands of Egypt and Uganda.

Second Picture — **With the absence of Ivan Almeida, this presents an opportunity for other Cape Verde players to step up. Pictures: FIBA**

“We are focused. We have prepared well. Right now, we aim to take it one game at a time. So we will do our best to come out with a victory,” said Almeida. “This group is a tough one. The teams are good and balanced. You can see the results from last year’s opening window. There were no blow-outs. All the games were close, with small point differentials.”

Giving his assessment of the teams in Cape Verde’s group, Almeida says it will be an all out battle to secure spots for the AfroBasket in Rwanda (24 August -5 September).
“Morocco has competed in continental competitions for many years. They have brought in some new players for this window. They are younger and inexperienced at this level. Egypt are a powerhouse. They have great players and are a balanced team. They also have experience on their side and are also well-coached. Uganda are up and coming. They have great talent, also well-coached and are a united team. So, it’s a tough group. Every game is going to be a dog-fight,” said the former Brockport State player.

On Cape Verde’s chances of securing their ticket to the continental showpiece, Almeida believes the key is motivation.

“We are motivated to get to Rwanda. We want to be on the biggest stage of African basketball competition. This window presents us with that chance. It’s now or never,” said Almeida. “Qualifying for the AfroBasket would mean a lot to the country and our people. We want to make them proud. We want to be there. We are willing to do what it takes to get there.”

Third Pic — **Joel Almeida says the team are motivated and ready achieve their goal.**

To achieve this ambition, Almeida, one of the statistical leaders for Cape Verde, will have to be at the top of his game. His record from the opening window reads as follows: 12.3 points per game; 5.3 rebounds per game and 3.7 assists. While Cape Verde will rely on Almeida being at his peak, the veteran player says there are other intangibles required to get the job done.

“It’s about doing whatever the team needs you to do, whether it is scoring, rebounding or passing. You do whatever it takes to help the team win. There won’t always be good days. When it’s not a good day, you have to find other ways to contribute to the team effort,” said Almeida.

One player, who has not made the trip to Tunisia, due to injury is Almeida’s younger brother Ivan. The younger Almeida leads the team in scoring (21 points per game) and rebounding (10 points per game). While Ivan’s production on the court will be missed, Joel believes it’s an opportunity for other players to step up.

“We are going to miss him. He leads us in a lot of statistical categories. He can play multiple positions. He is our leader offensively and defensively. But we are ready. It’s next man up. Now everybody needs to chip in a little extra, for us to achieve our goal,” said Almeida.

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Tunisia will count on experience to qualify for AfroBasket

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THE Big Tip Off spoke to Tunisia’s Omar Abada, to find out about their qualification process for the FIBA AfroBasket. Abada also shares his views about the absence of fans and who he regards as Tunisia’s greatest players.

BTO: The second window of qualifiers is taking place in Tunisia, your home country. Do you think it is an advantage for your team to play at home?

Omar Abada: Yes, it is an advantage to play at home, we know the venue and we are used to the conditions. It is a place where we know, we can play with confidence.

BTO: Because of Covid-19, Tunisia will not be playing in front of its fans. What will it feel like to play without them cheering the team?

OA: It is going to be difficult without their support, but we have set our goals. We have to achieve them, even without our fans.

BTO: Tunisia has a 3-0 record in the AfroBasket qualifiers. How confident are you going into the second window, that Tunisia will qualify?

OA: We play the same way in every game or tournament. We put in 100% effort to win and play good basketball at both ends of the court.

BTO: You are one of the team leaders statistically, in terms of scoring, rebounds and assists in the first qualifying window. What are you doing to make sure you maintain the consistency for your team in the second window?

OA: In every game I play, I must focus. I have to play smart and play hard at both ends and to follow the coach’s instructions.

BTO: How would you describe this Tunisia team involved in the qualifiers? What are your strong points? Where do you think you can improve?

OA: We have a good team of experienced players and talented young players. Our strength is to play as a team offensively and defensively. We have to work on maintaining our consistency for 40 minutes.

BTO: You are one of the experienced players, in the Tunisia team. How important is this experience going into these qualifiers?

OA: Experience is important, especially in games of this magnitude. You have to know how to play against every opponent. You have to play smart and with confidence.

BTO: Tunisia has created a culture of winning in the AfroBasket (2011 and 2017). How important is it for you as players to qualify for the tournament and win?

OA: As a team, we have a target that we want to achieve, but the process of success is a step-by-step one.

BTO: Has Covid-19 affected the match fitness of Tunisia’s players? Have players been able to participate in competitive basketball in their various leagues?

OA: No, not at all. Covid-19 did not affect us. All the players of the national team have managed to play for their clubs. So, that is an advantage for us.

BTO: You are playing against the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Central African Republic (CAR) and Madagascar. What do you think about each team?

OA: DRC are an athletic team. We have to play aggressive and smart against them to win. CAR have talented players. We should play as a team and help each other especially in defence to beat them. Madagascar are a quick team. We have to push them to play in the half-court and slow down their fast breaks.

BTO: You played in the FIBA 2019 World Cup, how was that experience for you and what did you learn from that tournament?

OA: The World Cup was a good experience for Tunisia and myself. Although we did not achieve our goal of qualifying for the Olympic Games, we showed the world we can compete against the high-level teams.

BTO: How would you describe yourself as a basketball player? What are your strong points? What do you still want to improve?

OA: I think I have a high basketball IQ. I know what to do on the court and how to help my teammates be better. I want to improve defensively and that will make me a better basketball player.

BTO: What is your biggest achievement in basketball so far? And why?

OA: My biggest achievement in basketball is winning the 2017 AfroBasket. Firstly, it is the biggest tournament on the continent. Secondly, it was held in Tunisia and in front of our fans.

BTO: Which player has given you the toughest time on the basketball court? And why?

OA: Many players come to mind, but I would say Spain’s Ricky Rubio. He is one of the best point guards in the world. It is not easy to play against him.

BTO: Who is your favourite player in basketball? And why?

OA: The late Kobe Bryant. His talent and attitude. He wanted to be better every day. He also achieved everything in his career.

BTO: Who is Tunisia’s greatest player? And why?

OA: There are two, in my opinion: Makrem Ben Romdhane and Salah Mejri. Makrem has had a great career in the national team and has won many individual titles. He has also contributed to the success of the national team. Salah is one of the best players of all time in Africa. He has competed in the NBA and in Europe. At the national team level, he is an efficient player.

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BTO: Do you remember your first basketball sneakers. Which brand were they?

OA: Kobe Bryant’s sneakers.

BTO: What sneakers are you playing with now?

OA: I currently wear Nike Paul George sneakers.

BTO: What is your favourite sports quote?

OA: You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.

BTO: What kind of person is Omar Abada off the basketball court?

OA: I am a serious person. I can talk about basketball, all day long. I also like to help people out of difficult situations.

BTO: How do you want to be remembered when you retire from basketball?

OA: I want to be remembered as a smart player who gave everything to his country.

BTO: What is your message to Tunisian fans, who will be cheering you on during the AfroBasket qualifiers?

OA: I want to tell them to support us from their living rooms. Their support and encouragement is important, even if they cannot come to the venue.

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Rwanda to raise their competitive bar in Tunisia

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“We have to show that we want to win”

RWANDAN basketball has enjoyed an upward trajectory. This rise, although steady, has garnered recognition for the East African nation on the continent.

After successfully hosting the Basketball Africa League qualifiers two-years-ago, Rwanda added another feather in the cap, by hosting one leg of the Afrobasket qualifiers in November.

Unfortunately, hosting the Afrobasket qualifiers did not have the desired effect on Rwanda’s national team. Technically, Rwanda are AfroBasket hosts (24 August- 5 September) and did not need to play in the qualifiers. But they did and gave uninspiring displays at their home venue in Kigali.

Reflecting on their 0-3 record in Group D, team captain Olivier Shyaka says the Rwandan team did not show up.

“Last year, we did not play well. We did not practice as hard as we needed to. We did not play with commitment. We were there physically, but we did not play with heart,” said Shyaka, who plays for REG Basketball Club in Rwanda.

Despite being one of the few countries on the continent to have had a basketball season, albeit a shortened one, the mileage should have been beneficial. Shyaka though holds a different view. In his opinion, the league season was not long enough for the selected national team players to be competitive.

“The bubble was not enough. We had not played for six months, and we only played in the bio-bubble for two weeks,” said Shyaka, who acknowledged that some teams were not as fortunate as Rwanda was to have a league. “I know that’s just an excuse because other countries were on lockdown too.”

Could the fact that Rwanda is hosting the upcoming tournament have played on the team’s psyche? Shyaka refutes the notion, saying it would have been disrespectful to the other teams in their group.

No, no, no. That is not possible. Then the other teams will not respect us. We have to try and win. Two or three games. The other teams needed to feel our presence. No matter what, whether you are hosting or not, we have to win. Just because we were hosts, does not mean we should have been there to only participate. We have to show that we want to win,” said the 25-year-old.

Following losses to group D opponents, Nigeria, South Sudan and Mali, Rwanda’s Serbian coach Vladimir Bosnjak stepped down. In his place, the national federation, Rwanda Basketball Federation (Ferwaba) hired caretaker coach Henry Mwinuka, who coaches REG Basketball Club.

Mwinuka’s appointment, according to Shyaka, has brought in an air of confidence in the team. Shyaka, believes his club coach, has great confidence in the players going to do battle for Rwanda.

“The way we train is different. Every coach has their style and vision. Henry Mwinuka maybe the acting coach, but he hates to lose. He demonstrates it in the way he pushes us at practice. The way he talks to us. The way he shows that he trusts us. He’s created an environment of togetherness. There’s a difference in the team,” said the power forward.

Despite Rwanda’s poor showing in the first leg of the qualifiers, Shyaka was one of their top performers, in terms of efficiency. The Rwanda captain, says his performances serve no benefit if the team is not winning.

“We play basketball as a team. If I play well, other players are inspired to play well too. I am helping them to be better on the court. However, if I don’t play well, it does not mean that my teammates should play badly. We should have each other’s backs. Last year that was not the case, we played as individuals. That is the first thing the new coach addressed,” said Shyaka.

Rwanda does not have the burden of being hosts for the final leg of the qualifiers. They head to Monastir, Tunisia (17 February-21 February) hoping to redeem themselves. Shyaka reiterated those sentiments and believes the wind of change has galvanised the team.

“We have been practising for three weeks. I can tell you we are in a good space as a team, unlike last year. We have been training hard. There’s a new level of commitment. There are new guys who the coach wants to give a chance to,” said Shyaka, who stated the team’s intention when they touchdown in Monastir. “We are going to Tunisia to fight. We are going to Tunisia to compete. More than before, we are committed.”

Change has come to the Rwandan team. A new coach. A change in attitude. And a promise to be competitive in Tunisia. Hopefully, the team’s performances in North Africa will befit a country seen, as a new hub for basketball on the continent.

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Mills believes Morans can punch above their weight

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THE hard lockdown of Australia last year, due to the global Covid-19 pandemic, offered basketball coach Liz Mills, who grew up in Sydney, time to take stock of her life.

On her reflections during the national lockdown, Mills realised that the break was necessary as she needed to learn to slow down. She also used the time to enhance her basketball knowledge.

“I did a lot of personal growth and professional growth last year. I learned a lot of lessons about slowing down. I took the time to re-evaluate certain things in my life. Basketball-wise I was able to attend online coaching courses and complete a basketball analytic course to solidify and continue to develop my skill-set in coaching,” said Mills, who holds a Master’s degree in her profession.

Armed with new knowledge in her craft, Mills, who regards Africa as a second home, is back and has already taken up a new challenge. Coaching the Kenya national team, the Morans, who are attempting to qualify for their first FIBA AfroBasket in 28 years.

Oh, definitely! It’s home away, from home. Every time I fly back, I am over-joyed to be here. Last year was difficult. It was the first time in nearly a decade that I had not been to Africa, sometime during the year,” said Mills, who takes over a Morans team at the halfway stage of the qualifiers of the tournament to be hosted by Rwanda (24 August-5 September).

Mills, who has coached in Zambia, Cameroon, and Rwanda, believes the Morans, snapped her up because of her technical expertise and experience in the continent.

“I consult with a lot of teams. Many national teams and clubs reach out to me, asking for advanced stats and film breakdowns. So, I have built a reputation for myself. The team manager, Mercine Milimu, reached out to me before the qualifiers started in Rwanda in November. She brought up the idea of me joining the Morans,” said Mills, who took over the reins from Cliff Owour.

The East African nation’s performance during the qualifiers of the first window, in Kigali, convinced Mills she had made the right choice in taking up the head coaching role.

“After watching them participate in Rwanda. I said to myself: ‘This team has potential’. I have been watching them since the AfroCan in 2019. They are a team on the rise. They are a team that’s an underdog, just like Australians. We are seen as underdogs all the time. But we fight well above our weight. So, it seemed like a natural fit. Once I got here I was given the head coaching role. I am excited to be working with this team,” said Mills.

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Kenya resume their group B qualifying campaign in Yaounde, Cameroon (February 19-February 21) with a 1-3 record, following a win over perennial qualifiers Mozambique and losses to powerhouses Angola and Senegal in the first window held in Kigali, Rwanda last year.

Mills is aware of the challenge that lies ahead for the Morans and has already gathered intelligence on Kenya’s opposition.

“Even though I was not able to coach in the first round of qualifiers, I do all the advanced stats for all the games. I am aware of what’s going on. I am very connected, regardless of whether I am coaching or not. It doesn’t feel like I am at a disadvantage, just because I am coming in now. I did not narrow in on a specific team, I was watching everybody, so I have a good grasp of how every team is playing especially in our group,” said Mills, who has high hopes for the Kenya basketball team in the second window.

“I think what’s exciting about this Morans team, is that they can play so much better than what they did in November. Their areas for improvement are so high. I think they have the capabilities to play at a better level. I don’t think there are many teams currently playing, who have that same level of improvement as the Morans.”

Kenya stands a good chance of qualifying and while arriving at that destination is important, Mills opined that the journey of getting there is just as critical.

“I think at the end of the day it’s about how much we can improve. We are not chasing wins. We are working on the process that can get us wins. We want to improve against Angola and Senegal. Reduce the margins of error. If we can get the win, that’s great. And of course, Mozambique is a team with a lot of experience, so we must respect them,” said Mills.

The Australian-born coach is also breaking new ground as a female head coach of a men’s team, a milestone she acknowledges.

“I’ve always been very warmly welcomed by the clubs and national teams I’ve worked with. Across the continent, I’ve been embraced by the basketball community, who have seen my dedication to growing the game here,” continued Mills. “I’ve been lucky to work with clubs and national federations who are open-minded in terms of their hiring approach. I take being a role model very seriously and understand that young boys and girls need to see women in leadership positions. We need to provide intelligent, strong and independent female role models for the next generation of children growing up.”

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SAWBA answers women’s call

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“There has been a decrease in the standard of basketball”

WOMEN involved in South African basketball, have taken a step forward in changing the narrative for themselves. Through South Africa Women’s Basketball Association (SAWBA), the aim is to create more opportunities for women in and through the sport.

Following a dialogue, late last year, to address issues affecting women in the country’s basketball, the idea of SAWBA came to fruition. The organisation hit the ground running by electing new leadership to take women’s basketball on a different path.

Leading this change for women’s basketball in South Africa is newly elected chairperson of SAWBA, Nompumelelo Ramatsoga. Ramatsoga and her committee look forward to the challenge of helping women realise their aspirations in basketball.

It’s exciting. I am lucky to have such an incredible committee flanking me. This is a group of amazing women. They stepped up to the call, and are willing to work with me,” said Ramatsoga, who proceeded to outline what some of the newly elected committee’s objectives are.

“For the next couple of years, we want to be an advocate for women and girls basketball. We want to help the sport to grow. We want to offer support to young women and girls who love the sport. Not just on the court, we want to support them off the court as well.”

Ramatsoga, a former under-16 national team coach, elaborated on the type of support they are looking to offer women in basketball.

“On the court, it’s to get more girls playing. Get them playing on a more competitive level. That’s the biggest one, getting girls to play and for them to get exposure. We also want women to get educated. If you look at our board and executive committee, most of us got an education through basketball,” said Ramatsoga, who shared her experiences and concerns about the state of the game in South Africa.

“I have had the opportunity to coach the under-16 national team in two cycles of competition in 2015 and 2018. It’s a great platform. It’s one of the greatest joys I have experienced in basketball. But there were some eye-openers as well. And as SAWBA, we want to address these issues. For example, we would like to see an all-female staff in teams. We don’t only want to play the game. We want to show that women can be doctors. Women can be physios. Women can be coaches. Women can be administrators in the sport. We want to create a holistic picture,” said Ramatsoga, who is studying towards her Masters in Psychology.

Another issue of concern in South African basketball is that the sport has been dysfunctional. The state affairs have made engagement with structures almost impossible. Ramatsoga herself acknowledges as much and feels once there has been a remedy to the situation, SAWBA will be in a position to communicate.

“There has been a decrease in the standard of basketball as well as access to opportunities and competitions. I think there is value in having a conversation with structures that exist, and structures being built. I know most provincial structures have gone into rebuild mode. We can’t exist in a silo,” said the former assistant coach of the Wits men’s team.

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Ramatsoga believes SAWBA, is perfectly positioned to help women’s basketball reach it’s potential. The onus is on the organisation to make full use of the opportunity.

“We are in a unique place to give women basketball players something to look forward to. We have a responsibility to make use of that,” said Ramatsoga.

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Silverbacks eager to rub shoulders with Africa’s elite

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FOR the Uganda national team players and coach Mandy Juruni, there has been little rest. Juruni and his players did not enjoy much of a festive season as they have been hard at work, in attempting to qualify for their third FIBA Afrobasket in a row.

The Silverbacks, as the Uganda basketball team is known, has experienced growth under the tutelage of Juruni, who assumed the coaching role in 2014. And since his appointment, Uganda qualified for the 2015 and 2017 editions of the tournament.

Uganda will hope the toil and sacrifice, will again result in a ticket to the marquee continental event in Rwanda (24 August-5 September).

But before they can even think of the tournament itself, Uganda must negotiate their way through the qualification process. The Silverbacks head to Monastir, Tunisia for the second qualifying window (February 17-21), with a 3-2 record. They will have a measure of confidence after victories over group E opponents, Cape Verde and Morocco in the opening qualifying window, held in Egypt last year. The East African’s only loss came at the hands of the hosts.

As mentioned earlier, the reasoning for the extra work is that players need to remain motivated, as taking their eye off the ball can be costly. Another issue has also been the lack of action on the court, due to the global COVID-19 pandemic.

“As a technical team, we sat down after the first window and decided we are not taking a lot of time off. We wanted to keep the boys engaged as there has not been competitive basketball in Uganda because of the pandemic,” said the 38-year-old Juruni. “We started training in the third week of December. We had a few days off during the Christmas break and got right back at it on the first week of January. “

While the lack of competitive basketball is lamentable, and Uganda’s defeat against Egypt showed as much. Juruni, who has won a combined 12 league titles in the men’s and women’s local league, will be buoyed by the two victories his team notched.

“It’s been difficult because in basketball, to be in good game shape, you have to compete. Just training only is not good enough. You have to play games,” said Juruni, who reflected on their first round of qualifiers. “Definitely in the first window, it was difficult for us, we had not played a competitive match since March. Our first competitive game was against Egypt. We gave it our best. At the end of the third quarter, we were still in the game. In the fourth quarter, we ran out of steam and lost focus. But in our next games, because we had played before, we were much better.”

The talents of American-born small forward, Ishmail Wainright, shooting guard Robinson Opong and point guard Jimmy Enabu, have helped put the Silverbacks’ qualifying destiny in their own hands. The scoring feats of Wainright (21.3 points per game), Opong (19.0 points per game) and Enabu (17.7 points per game) have been crucial to Uganda’s campaign. A factor Juruni acknowledges, but he also indicated that it would take more than the scoring ability of the trio to make it to the Afrobasket.

We are happy with the performances of those three. But for us to succeed, we will need more than that. We need everyone in the team to contribute positively. We believe the team that we have can do that. So we want our best players to continue playing well. We want the other seven or eight players to come on board as well. The more we contribute individually, the better it is for the team,” said the former point guard.

Juruni has ensured that his team does not rest on its laurels. He is also aware that the job is half-done, and familiar foes with similar desires stand in their way. The physical education teacher is well-versed with the above scenario after Uganda dropped the ball attempting to qualify for a major tournament.

“Our goal is to qualify for the Afrobasket. I know that it is not going to come easy. We have to work for it; we have to respect our opponents because they are good basketball nations. We have been in a situation like this in the World Cup qualifiers. We don’t want to be comfortable because we won two games. We want to train hard and have the best preparation possible to have a better campaign in the second window,” said Juruni, who coaches local club City Oilers.

It has not been ideal preparation for Uganda, but they have faced the challenge head-on. They will need to be resilient, tenacious and make the most of the advantage they hold if they are to rub shoulders with the continents elite basketball nations again.

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Canivete ready to be counted on for Mozambique

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FOR Mozambican two-way player David Canivete Jr being relied upon on to help the team to win basketball games is the feeling he’s missed a great deal. Due to COVID-19 lockdown restrictions in his home country, Canivete Jr like many other ballers couldn’t do what he loves most. And that is to play basketball.

Now that basketball activities have been allowed to resume by the government of that country, Canivete and his teammates have been hard at work preparing for the colossal task waiting in Kigali, Rwanda. Mozambique will face African giants Angola, Senegal and a Kenya Morans team on the rise, in the FIBA Afrobasket qualifiers from 25-29 November.

The ambition for Mozambique is to punch in their ticket for next years Afrobasket tournament on 24 August – 5 September, also in Kigali.

But, it is jumping the hurdle of a tough Group B that Mozambique have to negotiate first. And Canivete Jr will be one of the players his country calls on to help in this endeavour.

“I missed the fact that people can count me. The fact that I can help my teammates and my coach win games. I miss the fans as well because it is for them we play. But, I have missed the feeling of being that player the team can count on,” said the Ferroviario de Maputo player reflecting on his time away from the court.

Heading into the qualifying campaign Canivete Jr, fancies Mozambique’s chances of qualifying for the Afrobasket, because most players playing in the continent have been inactive. So, the qualifiers will serve as a first taste of competitive action for most players, since the lifting of national lockdown restrictions in their respective countries.

I don’t think many of us have played competitive basketball. Probably players from Senegal, who play overseas will have the advantage because their team comprises guys that play outside of that country. And the leagues overseas have resumed. So our hope is, to at least win two games against Angola and Kenya. But they are also in an equally good position to qualify,” said the 31-year-old, who pointed out that playing the qualifiers at a neutral venue (Kigali Arena bio bubble) has it’s pros and cons.
“If we win all our games, that would be good because none of the teams has the home-court advantage. It’s a disadvantage as well because you don’t get to play in front of your home fans.”

Despite the long stretch without any competitive basketball, Canivete maintains Mozambique has good shot at qualifying. His optimism stems from the fact that the bulk of the team will come from Ferroviario de Maputo side that had been preparing for the Basketball Africa League tournament, postponed to 2021.

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“We are in good shape because we have been practising for two or three months. My club was the only one practising here in Mozambique. We had an international competition, so we were allowed to prepare for that. So, there’s a good core to work with. Also included are two players from the Beira club, and we are expecting two players from Portugal,” said Canivete Jr, who has played in South Africa for the Phenomenal Phenoms.

A seasoned campaigner in international competition, Canivete Jr is always ready to don Mozambican vest. The experience he will add to Mozambique’s campaign will surely valuable.

“It’s a pleasure to play for the national team. It’s an honour for me to play alongside good players inside and outside of Mozambique. It means I am doing something right. I am staying shape and ready to represent my country. I hope that my experience will help the team. If we qualify, it will be my sixth Afrobasket. So, I am hoping to keep fit and healthy to help the team achieve this goal. I am going to give my blood and sweat. I will leave it all on the court,” said Canivete.

Mozambique will need Canivete’s and his teammate’s blood and sweat, and maybe some more to overcome their Group D opponents. And trying to maintain their tradition of being regular participants in the Afrobasket, they should spare no inch. It will be a tough group for Mozambique to navigate, but in overcoming the obstacles the taste of the promised land will be that sweeter.

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Can Kenya’s Morans rise from obscurity?

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FOR Ariel Okall, taking to the basketball court in the colours of the Kenya Morans (national team) will carry a special meaning, when they attempt to qualify for next year’s Afrobasket tournament to be hosted by Rwanda.

Firstly, after 27 years of being a basketball afterthought, Kenya will attempt to qualify for the FIBA Afrobasket tournament in Kigali from 24 August – 5 September 2021. Secondly, Okall wants to continue the family legacy of athletes participating at the highest level.

Okall’s father, Elijah Koranga, a former footballer, was part of the Harambee Stars team that participated in the 1992 Africa Cup of Nations. Okall’s journey to matching his father’s feats will begin at the Afrobasket qualifiers, also taking place in Kigali from 25 November – 29 November 2020. Kigali has prepared for the upcoming tournaments, in context of Covid-19 restrictions, by designating a bio-bubble at the Kigali arena.

“I want to compete. My father played in the Africa Cup of Nations with the Kenya football team. So, if we qualify for the Afrobasket, I will be at the same level as my father. If I don’t, he will still have that advantage over me. I want to qualify so badly so that he doesn’t have to brag that he’s the only one in the family that has competed at international level. It’s a matter of destiny. A matter of legacy.” said Okall, who is currently at camp with the team in Nairobi.

The forward believes that this group of Morans players can write their history in Kenyan basketball lore by ending almost three decades of basketball obscurity.

The ultimate goal is to qualify for Rwanda next year. It is the closest we have come to qualifying, after 27 years. We don’t want to take this chance for granted. We always say the Morans are about finishing their food. The coaches have given us everything we need. All that’s left is for us to finish the job,” said the 30-year-old.

Kenya put the African continent on notice after reaching the final of the AfroCan tournament in Mali last year, where they lost to the Democratic Republic of Congo. Despite this achievement, Okall maintained that the Morans are underdogs going into the Afrobasket qualifying tournament. He also held the view that they are a closed book to their more esteemed Group B opponents, Senegal, Angola and Mozambique.

“Definitely. We are the underdogs. And in Bamako, Mali we were the underdogs. We play better when we are in that position,” said Okall, who feels the Morans will know what to expect come tip-off time.

“Some of the players, playing in these teams, we look up to them. So, it’s going to be an achievement playing against players we have been watching for so many years,” said Okall who went on to break down what he’ll be expecting from what looks like the group of death.

“From all four teams, it’s going to be a battle size. If you look at the Senegalese, they have a great deal of height in their squad and Angola too. They also have a culture of winning.”

Okall will be familiar with Mozambique as he was part of the Morans team that played them in the four nations tournament held in South Africa in 2015.

“We played against them in the four nations tournament in South Africa and lost to them. They play the same type of basketball as Kenya, but the only advantage they have is they regularly participate in Africa’s biggest stage, so we have to take them seriously. We have to prepare well before we meet them. They have tournament experience, so you can’t take them for granted,” said Okall, who has played basketball in Oman and Seychelles.

The Morans also have the benefit of having the core of the team that participated in AfroCan tournament. While there will be a lot of rusty legs in the team due to inactivity because the global COVID-19 restrictions, Okall believes the continuity will bode well for the Morans.

“The mood in the camp is awesome. The core of the team is still intact. We don’t have to start from square one. We have been together for over two years we know each other well. Things are easy for us. There are three or four guys, who are new to the team,” said Okall.

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“Physically, the impact (of COVID-19 lockdown) is visible because the leagues had shutdown. Guys have been affected in terms of game shape and game awareness. The coaches have worked with us to improve our conditioning. The guys are mentally strong, and in the coming days, we will be at a higher level. The good thing is that all teams competing in the qualifiers have also had their leagues closed because of lockdowns in the respective countries.

“The only positive is that the professional players that will be coming have probably played leagues where basketball was allowed to resume. That will be an X-factor. But for the local players, it’s going to be tough on them,” concluded Okall.

The Morans, named after the famed Maasai tribe warriors will head to these qualifiers knowing they have nothing to lose. They have made a giant leap in African basketball and already sharpened by earlier wins for the test that awaits. Can they in the coming weeks elevate themselves and etch their names in Kenyan basketball lore?

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The unchanging character of BSA

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“And from an outsider’s perspective looking in, it certainly looks like a power grab”

BASKETBALL South Africa (BSA) held their president’s meeting on Saturday, amid protests by the Friends of Basketball, who questioned the constitutionality of the gathering.

Questions are probably now being asked about the outcomes of that meeting, and what the way forward is. If anything, the basketball community is owed transparency by the BSA leadership about what they have determined to do for the remainder of the year and how to revitalise the game. One of the vices of previous and present BSA leadership is the lack of transparency about the goings on within the organisation, which directly impacts its credibility.

This further gives credence to protest group Friends of Basketball’s sentiment that the meeting was created by the current leadership, under Sanele Mthiyane, to further entrench themselves within the organisation.

Sports caster and former South African basketball player Quintin Denyssen, believes that BSA could have been more proactive in engaging with the South African basketball community, at the height of lockdown. And so, the status quo of not being transparent, further dimmed the flickering light on an already troubled national basketball governing body.

Some of these things could have been avoided, if action was taken during the more turbulent times of lockdown. We were inactive as the basketball community. BSA and the respective associations could have done a needs analysis on basketball. We all know that BSA has been plagued by maladministration, inaction but all this could have been avoided if the letter of the law (BSA constitution) had been followed,” said the former Wits University player.

“My understanding of the constitution is reasonable. The scheduling of an AGM was what people are contesting. The constitution makes provision for representatives from functioning districts and associations to be part of an AGM or a BSA meeting. That’s what the basketball community is fighting for and questioning. The constitutionality of the meeting.”

Denyssen, who has also played basketball in Mozambique, pointed out that the problems being faced by South African basketball are nothing new and last Saturday’s meeting did nothing to quell the feeling that the current administration wants to hold on to power.

It feels like a power grab. And from an outsider’s perspective looking in, it certainly looks like a power grab. But I am a bit optimistic because at least (BSA) they have taken an action. I understand all of our frustration in the basketball community, because there is no trust between (BSA) administration and those working in the provincial associations and that has filtered down to the players and fans. This problem is inherent and has been there for the better part of 20 years. In that time the basketball community has seen limited change,” said Denyssen, who encouraged the BSA leadership to be transparent in how it conducts its affairs.

“If you try to build any sort of trust. Or try to rebuild a relationship with a community that has expressed its dissatisfaction given with what they have seen, transparency has to be the immediate focus. Because that has certainly been lacking in traditional basketball structures. And I don’t think the meeting that happened on Saturday helped matters. If anything, it has probably damaged it again.”

Denyssen was also critical of BSA president Mthiyane of not making his presence felt on these critical issues that are faced by South African basketball.

“You need a leadership that represents the overall view or sentiments of the community. People don’t feel that our current president has exhibited strong leadership, because of lack of visibility, and communication with the community. We have seen spurts of it. But it’s been generally too silent,” said Denyssen who complimented the action taken by Friends of Basketball, under hashtag #FixSABasketball, imploring Sports Minister Nathi Mthethwa to intervene in the crisis.

“I am certainly for it. We see it in one of our popular sports, cricket. Where the minister’s interference could have a direct effect on South Africa’s ability to compete internationally. But if it’s going to fundamentally fix a corrupt organisation, which CSA (Cricket South Africa) are being positioned as, in the media then it’s the job of the ministry to ensure that sport is being played on free and fair grounds. There should be no abuse of power and no individual should claim ownership of a sport. This applies to basketball too.”

Finally, another issue the BSA leadership faces is the assumption that they are using basketball incorrectly to advance themselves. Denyssen took a different tone on the matter, saying from his interactions with the leadership it seemed like they were interested in moving the game forward.

“The self-advancement sentiment is always going to be there. However, in my dealings with them, I do get the sense that they have the sport’s interest at heart too. I just don’t think they are going about it in the right way.

Fourth Pic — **CEO of Wheelchair Basketball South Africa Charles Saunders, far left, has been hailed for his acumen for administration. Picture: Supplied**

“They have been trying to get the right people to assist with administration. I think by roping in Charles Saunders from Wheelchair Basketball South Africa, they made a good decision. I think he has a great track record in administration. Irrespective of who he works with, he is someone who knows how to run and administer the sport, to keep it in good standing with FIBA, and this helps with building credibility,” said Denyssen.

From Denyssen words, new life can be breathed into South African basketball. Whilst BSA has been found wanting in some instances, it is encouraging that some of their steps are right. The basketball community must also be credited for finding their collective voice and wanting to hold those steering the BSA ship accountable so that basketball can bounce back as a sport of choice.

The basketball community desires and deserves openness and transparency in the functioning of the BSA. By making the outcomes of the meeting on Saturday public will be an appropriate first step in rebuilding the confidence of a disaffected basketball community.

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The rot in Basketball South Africa, why should we care?

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Mthiyane: We have to get a sense of what is going on the ground

THE foundation of South African basketball has always been a shaky one and poor governance has been the dominant theme. The blame for the sport bouncing about without direction can be placed right at the doorstep of previous and present leadership of Basketball South Africa (BSA).

Are you a basketball player or a coach? Do you have an interest in basketball administration? Are you a referee or a sports scientist that is interested in basketball? Do you have a child that is interested in basketball? Are you a media practitioner that is interested in covering the sport? If your answer is yes to any of these questions, then this should matter to you.

This is an example of how a whole value chain is impacted by the inertia in South African basketball, where many people’s talents could have been unleashed to improve the game. But, this has not been the case, because of poor governance in the sport.

When the lockdown began, the hope was that the leadership at various levels (district, provincial and national) would work together to strategise on how to revive the sport.

There were official meetings to begin the rebuilding process, but along the way a few hurdles were experienced, as official processes allegedly did not favour the agendas of certain individuals (those holding power). Basketball, this time went from bouncing without direction to being completely deflated.

**Tsakani Ngobeni celebrates with fans after South Africa qualified for Afrobasket 2017. Pictures: Supplied**

The depressing state of affairs led to questions being asked and conversations being had in private and on social media spaces (Let’s talk SA basketball on Facebook) and Twitter (Thabo Sithole’s tweet to the minister), about what was going on.

Instead of making use of a golden opportunity to get things right, those in power retreated to the more familiar path of shooting air balls and not doing anything to move the game forward.

And now, with basketball allowed to resume activities, the sentiment remains that the leadership under current BSA president Sanele Mthiyane is not being transparent. And that the leadership is not taking the necessary steps to bring the basketball community together to solve this crisis.

Further, Mthiyane and his team have been at the helm of BSA for a few years now but basketball remains at a standstill since they took over, and questions regarding legitimacy have arisen. The questioning of Mthiyane’s validity as president emanates from the following issues:

The duration of his term of office is in question
BSA financials have not been shared with the basketball community and the public
BSA has not had a fully constituted AGM
BSA has 5 active members instead of 15 members, which raises questions about meeting quorums
There have not been national programs for the last five years

The BSA has set guidelines for the resumption of the sport. However, there has been no clear direction given to provinces on the resumption of basketball activities, including sharing of BSA’s future plans regarding basketball.

And now, BSA has requested a meeting at the last minute (5 October 2020) with the provincial chairpersons scheduled for Saturday, 17 October to outline the way forward. This has been met by an online petition led by a group named the Friends of Basketball Movement against the AGM and pleading for government intervention.

In response to these sentiments, Mthiyane pointed out that it is part of his mandate as president of the federation to call meetings with chairpersons, and highlighted the impact COVID-19 has had on their plans for the year.

**Christopher Gabriel playing for South Africa during the BRICS tournament in China.**

“The constitution of BSA allows the president to have a meeting with chairpersons and engage them on views they deem to be in the interests of basketball. Of course, we were hit by the COVID-19 pandemic which put sport activities on hold. Now that basketball has resumed, we have to engage various people, because we cannot decide unilaterally what needs to happen. We have to get a sense of what is going on the ground, and how we move forward,” said Mthiyane.

A fundamental question regarding this is, who the provincial chairpersons that BSA will be meeting are as this information is not in the public domain.

Mthiyane refutes the notion that during his tenure an AGM is yet to be held. “It’s not true. Last year in November we hand an AGM and members were there. We decided on an action plan that was clear and that by March we should give a report back. We formed various commissions and responsibilities were given. Unfortunately, the lockdown happened. What could we do? Even FIBA put their programs on hold.” said. However, consistent communication with the basketball community by BSA has been an ongoing concern.

The BSA president lambasted those that questioned the legitimacy of the members attending the meeting on Saturday through social media.

It’s unfortunate that when you don’t like a person, you can write whatever you like about them. It’s unfortunate but we are a democratic country. We (BSA) are not driven by what is said on social media. Those who criticise us must be asked whether they participate in the clubs as that is the directive we have given. So, you will find those that have opinions are not part of clubs, institutions and provinces. We are not in any position to certify views posted on social media, but we welcome views and engagements from the clubs.” said Mthiyane, who belongs to a club called Rim Shakers in Shakaville.

On the matter of BSA being dormant, Mthiyane pointed out that since he assumed office in 2015, two years later, the men’s national team competed in Afrobasket in Senegal and participated in an international tournament in China. All this despite the organisation having a tight budget. The basketball community would like to see BSA do more with its national programmes.

**Women’s national team during AfroBasket 2015.**

“Remember, basketball in South Africa has challenges, but we are still building capacity in terms coaches and referees. Also, USSA and schools with the assistance of the department are continuing with their programs. In the provinces, leagues are continuing even though there are challenges here and there,” said Mthiyane.

“We are going to tell the chairpersons we are ready. Our finances are in order, and we are ready to call an AGM to deal with what we have been commissioned to do. My job is not to address the media about the constitutional matters we are going to talk about. I have a duty to inform the public about what we, as BSA have resolved to do.”

And there you have it! It is clear that for far too long South African basketball has been shooting rather aimlessly. Is there a glimmer of hope? We cannot conclude on that. The basketball community must continue to hold BSA accountable. And the BSA must discharge its responsibility and take the basketball community into its confidence on all matters basketball.

The rot in Basketball South Africa, why should we care? Read More »

African Basketball

“We are focused. We have prepared well”

THE Big Tip Off spoke to Tunisia’s Omar Abada, to find out about their qualification process for the FIBA AfroBasket. Abada also shares his views about the absence of fans and who he regards as Tunisia’s greatest players.

“We have to show that we want to win”

“There has been a decrease in the standard of basketball”

“And from an outsider’s perspective looking in, it certainly looks like a power grab”

Mthiyane: We have to get a sense of what is going on the ground