African Basketball - The Big Tip Off

Basketball allows me to express myself authentically

“Basketball has a special place in my heart, but it has its challenges”

I joined basketball at Westerford High School in 2010 where I was fortunate enough to meet Coach Thesline Davids, who soon introduced my best friend, Saphron and I to a whole new world. Basketball was not a popular sport in most high schools in the southern suburbs of Cape Town, so being a part of Montana Vikings Basketball Club exposed us to the ball culture and the community. We would mission to practices at Montevideo primary school in Montana twice a week and force our high school teammates to have morning practices with us. This is where my love and passion for basketball started to develop.

Basketball soon taught me perseverance, discipline and self-confidence. It also blessed me with long-term friendships and mentors. One of my favourite aspects of basketball is the sense of belonging I feel.

I played for the University of Cape Town (UCT) from 2015 – 2018 and our team evolved with the help of Coach Matt Skade and driven teammates who made the varsity ball experience that much more memorable and enjoyable. We initiated a women’s internal league and attempted to infiltrate the men’s internal league too. While at varsity, I returned to my high school alma mater to coach the senior girls first team. I must say it was an enjoyable experience working with young and enthusiastic players.

My journey in leadership continued in 2018, when I captained the UCT ladies team and we finished fourth at the University Sports South Africa (USSA) tournament which was a huge achievement us. It also meant the UCT ladies team qualified for the Varsity Cup in 2019. I left all my love, sweat and tears on the court for UCT.

Secondary caption image — **Lauren Fredericks grew as a player during her time at UCT. Pictures: THE BTO**

My hoop journey led me to Gauteng, where the strong competition and culture is often revered. So, all I wanted was to experience playing basketball in that part of the world. Hence, when I graduated in 2018, I was thrilled to find out I was placed in Gauteng for my community service year. I had the pleasure to join the Jozi Nuggets basketball club and participated in many tournaments with them in 2019. The Nuggets provided me with a space to constantly learn and grow as a player, which I’ll always be grateful for.

Throughout my ball journey, I have been fortunate enough to be coached by skilled and supportive coaches. Coach Matt Skade was the toughest coach I have played for, while I was at UCT. I developed as a player in terms of basketball skill and leadership. My mother, a constant reassuring figure, often watched my ball games and provided the many needed pep talks after bad games. Another positive influence is Lungile Mtsweni. Her drive, passion, commitment to her faith and basketball always stayed with me. I remember watching her play in high school and saying to myself, I want to be just like her when I grow up.

Basketball for me has been a blessing and a privilege. It’s a platform that allows me to express myself authentically. It has been a privilege to learn and play with strong women who are mothers, doctors, engineers, academics, scientists and more. These women have taught me that there is no limit to what you can do on and off the court.

Third Caption Picture — **Lauren Fredericks joined the Jozi Nuggets to get a feel of the competitive nature of Gauteng basketball.**

Currently, I am pursuing my Master’s degree in Audiology at the University of Pretoria while practising as an audiologist in the public health sector. Basketball taught me teamwork. Thus, working in a hospital setting and a multi-disciplinary team came easy.

Basketball has a special place in my heart, but it has its major challenges. These challenges include the lack of a national ladies’ team and a professional league as well as the overall attitude towards women in basketball. We are neither seen nor treated as equals in the decisions that involve and affect us on and off the court.

The state of women’s basketball in South Africa needs consistent support from all of us, and especially our male counterparts.

The root of the problem is that there is no female representation in the decision-making and management of Basketball South Africa. What is needed is a women’s Basketball Association. Female representation is required for advocacy, to voice women’s issues and to empower young girls to continue playing basketball. The development of a National Women’s Basketball Association would ensure this happens. However, what we can do right now to contribute to change is take up space in conversations on basketball, and avail ourselves, as women, for positions in the committees that govern basketball in South Africa.

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Basketball pushing Bagula beyond her limits

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“You can never cheat the game of basketball”

I remember my first netball practice in primary school, I was in grade one at the time. A player passed the ball to me and I ended up trying to dribble. My teacher stopped me and pointed out that I was attempting to play a different sport. Though slightly frustrated, I acknowledged her words and stuck to the rules of the sport I had signed up for.

That moment although insignificant, was my short-lived introduction to basketball. I continued to play netball until my fourth year of university, after which I decided to challenge myself by participating in a different sport. My mother gave a firm NO about boxing, having spent a fortune on my braces, and so basketball it was.

I showed up to the University of Cape Town’s (UCT) women’s basketball team trials, nervous and excited about the new sport I would be partaking in. The trials, which incorporated fitness and basketball skills were gruelling, but I squeezed my way into the team. I remember coach Matthew Skade telling me I had made the team because of my fitness levels, and that if I wanted to maintain my place, I’d have to make some drastic improvements on my basketball skills.

Inspired by basketball — **Fortunat Bagula wants use her profession and basketball as an instrument for change. Pictures: THE BTO**

Though these words initially seemed harsh, they were exactly what my stubborn personality needed. They helped me push myself, acquaint myself with the fundamentals of basketball, and to fully love the game for its beauty, arrogant nature and fierceness.

I received a great amount of support from my teammates, who would help me practice certain plays and post moves outside of the formal practice sessions. Coach Matthew, at times annoying, helped me to not only understand the game, but also emphasised the need to work for what I wanted, through his favourite quote: “You can never cheat the game of basketball.”

After surviving six years at UCT in exchange for a shiny degree, I moved to Joburg where I currently practice medicine and are pursuing my post-grad studies in public health. I also joined the Jozi Nuggets, a team of fantastic basketball players, who amaze me with every game played.

My two years in Joburg are sadly coming to an end. I do hope to continue playing basketball socially once I return to Cape Town, where I will also be starting a non-profit organisation, Kuinua, which aims to provide health education, mentorship and various sports skills to girls aged 14-18.

I plan to complete my masters degree and embark on a career focused on healthcare management or policy changes in the healthcare sector. Yes, basketball has certainly introduced me to some of the strongest women I know. However, I still believe there needs to be a much greater effort made to advance women’s basketball in South Africa.

Grasping the fundamentals — **Fortunat Bagula had to learn the fundamentals of basketball to maintain her place in the UCT team. Picture: Supplied**

We can’t claim to want women’s basketball to be on the same level as men’s basketball, yet fewer resources are provided for the women’s game.

It’s not just South Africa. The world as a whole needs to increase resources allocated to women’s basketball on a greater scale.

Basketball has been and will continue to be a sport where I am continuously inspired, motivated and pushed beyond the limits that I have created for myself. A friend of mine once told me that to break barriers and achieve all that I can I should dream and believe in those dreams as if I was a seven-year-old child.

Therefore, I urge all basketball players and especially women basketball players to dare to dream and place action behind those dreams on and off the court.

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What Zimbabwe needs is what Africa needs

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“The ideal Zimbabwe is one where all human rights are honoured and respected”

AS an athlete, you need a delicate balance of economic, social, spiritual and physical incentives to keep pushing you towards a greater level to compete and excel. All those attributes are under the umbrella of politics.

Zimbabwean politics is extremely heartbreaking. Every attribute mentioned above has been segregated and is almost non-existent. If we were to step into the mind of a Zimbabwe-based athlete, they would ask these questions: “How do you expect me to give my best and compete on an international level with an empty stomach, without the physical structures to support my craft, in a culture of oppression, without reward for my hard work, and without the ability to express my opinion about who I am as an athlete, due to fear?”

Zimbabwe: Athletes Perspective — **Neville Chivanganye says the solutions to Zimbabwe’s problems are simple. PICTURES: THE BTO**

These questions sound far-fetched but they are the reality of athletes in Zimbabwe. Perfecting a craft requires a lot of time spent in it. However, many are taken away from this process in search for economic means for their daily survival. Yet, they are expected to dedicate time to the craft so that they are at par with fellow athletes in other parts of the world that are better resourced.

What politics has done to sport (and the entirety) of Zimbabwe has made it look like you have put a malnutritioned, sick, skin-and-bone child on a basketball court to compete against a mature, well-built and healthy Team Angola. Visualising that would suggest a demoralised and defeated mood in the heart and soul of the average Zimbabwean athlete. Ask the questions: “how would they compete, and how would they live?”- these two questions are one and the same thing.

What Zimbabwe needs is what Africa needs! A complete shift in understanding that human welfare is this continent’s wealth. Not for a few that are considered elite, but the entire citizenry of Africa.

Zimbabwe: African Solutions — **Neville Chivanganye says Zimbabwe can thrive once human rights are respected.**

Once our esteemed leaders on this continent grasp that concept, only then can poverty, brutality and corruption at all levels be eradicated. It may sound too simple, but it is that simple. Simple is made complex by people who build a maze of loopholes so it benefits them alone.

The ideal Zimbabwe is one where all human rights are honoured and respected. A Zimbabwe where there is no little man. A Zimbabwe where equality is the prevailing anchor that drives the actions of people in positions of power and influence. A Zimbabwe where power is held by the people and those given the privilege of leading do so transparently and honestly.

My ideal Zimbabwe is one where every citizen has complete access to their basic human rights and where they can thrive, economically, socially, spiritually and physically.

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Making the right moves on and off the court

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“Little did I know I was about to begin a beautiful journey”

FROM a young age, I was profoundly aware that who a person chooses to associate with, influences the way they lead their life, the people, places and things they are exposed to. With that knowledge, I could navigate my way through life with a certain amount of decent discretion in the choices that I made. Although I did not understand the depth of it then as I do now, it put me in a position to be in the right place, at the right time and with the right people.

How I got to be in the world of basketball is no different. In 7th grade, one Friday afternoon my friend, Oratile Nkwana told me that he was going for basketball practice. I must say, I was slightly irritated because it meant that I was going to walk home alone on that day. So, instead of journeying home alone, I decided to go and watch the practice while I waited for him. As we entered the courts, there we so many basketballs and many were in the air as everyone was shooting. It was loud and everyone looked like they were having fun.

**Ipeleng Nyatlo believes making the right choices and good mentorship saved her from a lot of trouble. PICTURES: THE BTO**

Coach Junior Mmoloke, one of the positive influences I have had as a player, took on the warm-up responsibilities that day. He made the practice so fun that I ended up joining. In my mind, I was just trying to keep fit as athletics season was over and I didn’t have any specific sport occupying my time after school. Little did I know I was about to begin a beautiful journey. I am glad I was friends with Oratile then because, through him, I was exposed to basketball.

At that time, I was a pupil at Matale Middle School in Rustenburg and Kgolagano Rakhudu was our school’s coach. Looking back to the time I spent around him made me realise how much of a mentor he was to me and his teachings saved me from a lot of trouble. There is a park right next to the stadium where most students would chill after school. Most of the time, I wished I could also ‘hang out’ because it seemed like the popular thing to do. Coach would always say, “don’t try to be like them when they want to be like you.” I now understand that deep down those students also wanted to be part of something bigger than themselves, but were maybe not brave enough to risk not being part of the ‘cool crowd’.

My coach’s investment in himself was evident in our growth as basketball players. In 2013, both the girls and boys team won the middle school division championship and our girls team also played for the provincial team. In the same year, the girl’s all-star team from the Royal Bafokeng Jr NBA program got an opportunity to compete in a provincial tournament. Before that, it used to be only the boys who would compete in tournaments outside the province.

Fast forward to varsity basketball, I realised how much the politics of gender influenced access and opportunities to basketball. Men are the only ones who played in the inaugural Varsity Basketball tournament. Women are still waiting for a Women’s Basketball National League. Generally, women in sports get fewer opportunities than men. However, I am glad that the necessary conversations are being sparked and hopefully will continue to be systematically addressed. It is still a journey ahead of us on this matter.

Dreaming Big — **Ipeleng Nyato dreams of giving back to basketball.**

Overall, I would say participating in basketball has been a blessing. I’ve played for the provincial and national team, and participated in the global Basketball Without Borders camp, just to name of a few of my career highlights. Currently, I am on scholarship and pursuing my studies towards a Bachelor of Accounting Science degree at the University of the Witwatersrand. A lot has been in invested in me and I hope to repay that faith by giving back to basketball.

I want the next generation to experience playing internationally and to know that what they see in the country is not all there is to basketball. Since work ethic cannot be coached, I believe it can be ignited in the players once they get a glimpse of what their peers are doing in other parts of the world. I’m excited for them and the growth of the sport in general.

I believe it is the responsibility of those who know better, mostly the coaches, to continue equipping themselves to put the sport at the level it needs to be. Because the growth of basketball is directly proportional to the investment the coaches are willing to make in themselves, for the benefit of the players.

Of course, the whole basketball community is required for the growth of basketball. I believe we have to consistently focus on doing the right thing. And in this, we have to keep the interests of the sport at heart, on and off the court. Only then, will other stakeholders be interested in investing their resources in the sport.

The future belongs to those that prepare for it. We have to continue doing our part and everything else will fall into place.

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VUT scholarship a win for Eswatini and Lubasi

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Playing in the BAL would be an amazing feat for Lubasi

VAAL University of Technology player Richard Lubasi talks to The Big Tip Off about his basketball journey, the crowning moment of his career and his ambition.

BTO: Where and when did you develop your love basketball?

RL: In Eswatini, about nine years ago. I’d shoot hoops and play scrimmages after school till 5 pm every day.

BTO: Who are the people that helped to shape you as a basketball player?

RL: I’ve got a couple: my older brother Matt Lubasi for setting a high standard, since he was a great player in his own right, coach Andile Thwala for developing my game and teaching me key fundamentals, and other top Swati coaches who were always willing to share tips and encouragement.

BTO: What are the strong aspects of your game?

RL: Shooting and scoring.

BTO: What aspects of your game do you feel need work?

RL: I could improve my physical game.

BTO: How would you describe yourself as a basketball player?

RL: I can shoot the ball and create my own shots consistently. Not only am I competitive, but I’m also versatile and can play multiple positions. I’m also willing to give my very best for the team.

**Richard Lubasi makes attempts a lay-up against UP-Tuks during the Varsity Basketball tournament. Pictures: THE BTO**

BTO: Do you remember your first basketball game? Can you describe it?

RL: Yeah. I was all over the place. Didn’t particularly have a good game, because I made so many mistakes, and my team lost dismally. It was a great learning experience for me though.

BTO: What has been your biggest achievement in basketball so far?

RL: Being awarded a basketball scholarship at VUT. I felt like that was big for Eswatini Basketball in that it put us on the map.

BTO: In the 2018 USSA finals against Wits you made a clutch free throw that helped your team to win the final. Can you describe the pressure of that moment? And how it felt to emerge victorious?

RL: I remember that moment like it was yesterday. It was immense pressure for sure. The energy from the crowd was electric. It was nerve-wracking for me, especially since I came off the bench! However, I was confident that I’d make at least one free throw and doing that on the biggest stage and clinching the title was sensational. I cannot express that feeling in words. It was also a defining point in my basketball career.

BTO: What was your lowest moment?

RL: Losing to Wits in last year’s Varsity cup. I felt like we deserved to win and we were victims of an officiating blunder that saw them awarded free points. And when we scored, our baskets weren’t counted. But hey, mistakes do happen.

BTO: Who is the toughest player you have faced on the basketball court? And why?

RL: Tsakani Ngobeni. He can simply do it all. One moment he’s playing point guard and making plays and the next moment he’s on the post down low. And he’s doing all of that at a high level of efficiency.

BTO: Who is the best player in South Africa? And why?

RL: Neo Mothiba. His work ethic is second to none and it’s evident every time he steps on the court.

BTO: Who is the best coach you have played for? And why?

RL: Coach Thabang Kgwedi. He is a great reader of the game and has a very high basketball IQ. I learnt a lot just playing under his leadership.

BTO: What is the difference between basketball played in the Basketball National League (BNL) and at the varsity level?

RL: Experience! Basketball in the BNL has a lot more experienced players than at varsity level.

BTO: Do you remember your first basketball kicks?

RL: Yeah, Kobe 2 Lite.

BTO: Which kicks are you currently rocking? And why?

RL: Hyperdunks. They are very comfortable and light

BTO: What is your favourite sport or general quote?

RL: “Look in the mirror… that’s your competition”.

BTO: Where do you see yourself going with basketball or an alternative career?

RL: There are no limits, but playing in the Basketball Africa League would be an amazing feat.

BTO: If you were not a basketball player, what would you be doing?

RL: Playing football ⚽️. It’s the first sport that I was introduced to.

BTO: Who is the biggest influence in your life, off the basketball court?

RL: My mom. She’s the strongest woman I know.

BTO: How have you been keeping busy during the lockdown?

RL: Apart from schoolwork, I’ve been jogging and doing home workouts to maintain fitness.

BTO: What words of encouragement do you have for people during this time of COVID-19?

RL: These are tough times we’re living in and what is happening is real. Let’s prevent colossal damage and protect each other because nothing is guaranteed in life and anything can happen. Let’s stay safe and adhere to the regulations.

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Sibanyoni: I will always love and appreciate my teammates

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Basketball went from unusual to an awesome experience for Sibanyoni

NKOSINATHI Sibanyoni of the Jozi Nuggets and former Mpumalanga Rhinos player opens up to The Big Tip Off about his experience in the Basketball National League (BNL) with the Rhinos and what his future plans are.

BTO: When did you develop your love for basketball?

NS: 2012.

BTO: Who were the role players in your development as a basketball player?

NS: Tim Duncan.

BTO: What are the strong aspects of your games?

NS: Rebounding and scoring.

BTO: What aspects of your game do you think need work?

NS: Dribbling and shooting.

BTO: Do you remember the first time you played in a basketball match? Can you describe it?

NS: It was unusual, because I was not sure what I was doing and not fully aware of the rules. But it was awesome!

BTO: Who is the toughest player you have faced on the basketball court? And why?

Jozi Nuggets player Nathi Sibanyoni — **Jozi Nuggets player Nkosinathi Sibanyoni has aspirations to play for South Africa’s national team. PICTURE: THE BTO**

NS: Neo Mothiba. He has been around for a long time. I have played alongside him and in my opinion, he works harder than half the players in the country.

BTO: What has been the biggest achievement of your basketball career so far? And why?

NS: Playing live on TV and playing for the best team in the country, Jozi Nuggets. Playing with guys that I used to watch play before I got to their playing level is a joy.

BTO: Your Mpumalanga Rhinos teammates staged a walkout after you were not allowed to play in the semi-final against the Soweto Panthers in last year’s Basketball National League (BNL) season. Can you explain what happened?

NS: It all began when Rhinos team manager Edwin Mononyane delayed in handing me a clearance letter, which would have allowed me to compete for the Jozi Nuggets in the Basketball Africa League qualifiers. Since I did not get the clearance letter, I thought I could resume playing for the Rhinos. On the day of the semi-finals, Mononyane claimed that he had issued my clearance letter and I had been de-registered from the league. My teammates got knowledge of what was going on and decided that if I was not allowed to play, they would also not play. Surprisingly, it started with the team coach, Tutu Gama and everyone else followed his lead.

BTO: How did you feel when your teammates stood with you and decided not to play in that semi-final?

NS: Somehow, I felt like I cost everyone an opportunity of potentially playing and winning a championship. Then I realised my team was willing to take a bullet for me, which confirmed that our brotherhood was strong.

BTO: Do you still want to play in the BNL and will you still be a Rhinos player?

NS:Yes, but only if it’s a good offer. And certainly not with the Rhinos. Not after my experience with the team manager, last year!

BTO: Do you have a message for your Rhinos teammates for standing with you?

NS: I appreciate what they did for me. I don’t think I will forget that. I will always love and appreciate them.

BTO: You played in the JBL final against the Phoenix Flames. What do you think went wrong for the Jozi Nuggets in that game?

NS: I think we didn’t show enough hunger. We didn’t play our game. Maybe it was because of pressure or competition.

BTO: Do you remember your first basketball sneakers?

NS: And1 sneakers.

BTO: Which sneakers are you currently rocking?

NS: Under Armour.

BTO: What would you be doing if you were not a basketball player?

NS: Probably playing soccer. Pursuing my dream of being a lawyer or businessman.

**Nkosinathi Sibanyoni wants to suit up for different BNL franchise**

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

NS: Russell Westbrook. The energy he has. His hunger. You can tell that this guy has zero limits.

BTO: What are you hoping to achieve in the future as a basketball player and or in an alternative career?

NS: Playing for the national team. Owning a business that will help communities and assist the youth in reaching their goals.

BTO: What is your favourite sport or general quote?

NS: “I am the same person with or without my friends. 10 toes down I need no crowd.”

BTO: Who is the biggest influence in your life outside of basketball?

NS: My mom.

BTO: What are your hobbies?

NS: Reading and drawing.

BTO: What words of encouragement do you have for people during this time of Covid-19?

NS: No one promised us happiness forever. Life has challenged us all and especially during this time of Covid-19. Facing the worst doesn’t mean the end, it means we have to be strong and work together. Faith over fear!

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Gumede: I love rugby more than basketball…

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Gumede inching his way to the mountain top

EGOLI Magic and Jozi Nuggets player Kwazi Gumede talks to The Big Tip Off about his basketball journey, why he chose to play it over rugby, and what he misses about basketball during the lockdown.

BTO: When did you develop your love for basketball?

KG: I developed my love for basketball when I was in Grade 8. At my high school (Jeppe Boys), we were required to play a sport every term and basketball is the only sport that made sense to me because it had a vibe.

BTO: Who were the role players in your development in basketball?

KG: Honestly, at the time when I was coming up, there wasn’t anybody to mentor me. So, I watched senior players at my high school, like Alessandro Cocomello and Bradley (now at Wits) and modelled my game around theirs.

BTO: How would you describe your style of play?

KG: I read the game well and I have a good IQ.

BTO: What are the strong aspects of your game?

KG: I am a good passer of the ball. I pass the ball in ways other players don’t expect. And I can shoot the ball.

BTO: What aspects of your game do you think need improvement?

KG: I think I need to be more aggressive and drive in more often.

BTO: Do you remember the first time you played a basketball match? Can you explain that experience?

KG: Yeah, I remember it very well. We had so much fun. At the time Jeppe’s three under-14 teams were full and I didn’t make any of those teams. So they had to make a D-team for us so that we could play. I had fun but the amount of walks and double dribbles LOL!

Main Picture — Kwazi Gumede believes his game matured last year. **Pictures: THE BTO**

BTO: How would you rate your BNL season last year in terms of individual performance?

KG: Honestly speaking, offensively it was bad, but defensively I had a good season. I think my game matured. I didn’t just chuck the ball at the hoop. I took good shots. Yeah, it was a season where I matured as a player.

BTO: You won the BNL championship with Egoli Magic. How was that experience for your team and yourself as an individual?

KG: The experience was amazing. I mean we had a good team, good coaching staff, and mostly we played with heart. The final against Soweto Panthers was a tight one, but we wanted it more and we played for each other.

BTO: Who is the toughest player you have faced on the basketball court? And why?

KG: That’s a tough one but I’ll say it’s Mduduzi Mkhonto. He is a bad, bad man.

BTO: What do you miss about being away from the basketball court? And why?

KG: Right now I miss practice, playing the game, and seeing my boy Emmanuel Bukweya cheering me on from the sidelines. I also miss listening to Neo Mothiba, Mlungisi Shongwe, Mdu Mkhonto and Lebesa Selepe speaking the Jozi Nuggets slang. I miss coach Florsh Ngwenya not shouting at me because I missed a shot, instead motivating me, and coach Andile Hlophe saying “Hallo vuka bra”.

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

KG: Russel Westbrook. Because he Rocks, baby!

BTO: Do you remember your first basketball kicks?

KG: My first basketball kicks were And1’s.

BTO: Which basketball sneaker are you currently rocking? And why?

KG: Jordan’s. I just think they’re comfortable.

BTO: What was your lowest moment in basketball? And why?

KG: My lowest moment, has to be this year at the Johannesburg Basketball League (JBL) final against Phoenix. I’ve never felt like that, I got zero minutes and I felt helpless and useless as a player.

BTO: Where do you see yourself going with basketball or alternative career?

KG: I can see myself playing in the Basketball Africa League (BAL). It will take a lot of dedication and time.

BTO: What is your favourite quote?

Third Picture — While his offence has suffered Gumede feels there has been an improvement in his defence.

KG: “The wolf at the top of the mountain is not as hungry as the one climbing the mountain.”

BTO: How have you been keeping busy during the lockdown?

KG: I jog. Luckily, I’m in a rural area, where there’s a court, so, I can train.

BTO: If you were not a basketball player what would you be doing? And why?

KG: I would be playing rugby. I love rugby more than basketball. I just happened to be a better basketball player than a rugby player.

BTO: What are your hobbies?

KG: Hanging with friends, PlayStation, touch rugby, and going out.

BTO: Who is the biggest influence in your life off the basketball court?

KG: Emmanuel Bukweya. He has been there for me through thick and thin. He’s young but he is an old soul and he is WOKE.

BTO: What words of encouragement do you have for people during this time of Covid-19?

KG: Please follow the regulations. Covid-19 is real. Stay indoors if possible, and if you do go out, wear your masks and sanitise as much as possible.

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Sithole’s tweet to Mthethwa makes the right noise

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Basketball being used for short-sighted political gain should be a thing of the past

ALL hands-on deck! That is the requirement needed for South African basketball to be a respected sport and part of the conversation as a national past-time. Anybody who has felt the magic when a basketball bounces on a hardwood or a concrete turf, more than ever, the sport needs you.

Basketball player Thabo Sithole’s chastising tweet on Sunday to current Sports, Arts and Culture minister, Nathi Mthethwa and his predecessors ended with the words ‘DO SOMETHING.’ Yes, something needs to be done about the state of basketball in this country. Whether the minister will respond accordingly to Sithole’s call to action, is a game of wait and see. But his intervention would be welcome.

As a fraternity, we can no longer sit on the bench and wait for a miracle. The mediocrity in the leadership of basketball in South Africa has gone on for far too long. Here are a few examples of the state of affairs in basketball. For two years running (2017/2018 – 2018/2019) the SRSA Eminent Person Group has classified South African basketball as dysfunctional and in 2015 online publication, Daily Maverick reported R2-million in lottery funding allocated for Basketball South Africa had grown legs.

This state of affairs points to a sport in disarray and the onus falls on the entire basketball fraternity to ensure that the sport is steered in the right direction. For that to happen, all hands need to be on deck; that includes fans, players and elected officials at various levels (district, provincial and national). We cannot stop only at words!

Secindary Pic — Thabo Sithole pleaded for intervention at the highest level. **PICTURE: THE BTO**

South Africa, like the rest of the world is in the grip of the COVID-19 pandemic and like sportscaster and former South African national team player Quintin Denyssen pointed out on this platform “the hard reset of the world is an opportunity for South African basketball to get things right”.

This time should be used to address and correct the issues affecting South African basketball. South Africa needs to be part of the conversation in basketball on the African continent and beyond. This means making our structures functional and having a coordinated calendar for our programmes, covering schools, varsities, clubs, provinces and national teams. It also means including the Basketball National League (BNL) as a partner in the rebuilding project, especially in establishing a national women’s league.

Basketball being used for short-term and political gain in South African sports should be a thing of the past. It should be used to serve present and future generations, and to celebrate our national basketball heroes who have contributed to shaping the game.

The one benefit South African basketball has in bucket loads is sharp minds, and a solid knowledge base that can be tapped into. One just has to follow South African basketball social media pages to realise how much potential and commitment there is in those circles to rebuild the structures of basketball. From those circles, the future leadership of basketball is also inherent and can be leveraged to serve in various governance positions. It may mean some individuals might have to wear more than one hat in the service of basketball. At this stage, whatever it takes!

The issues facing basketball mentioned in this article may be but a drop in the ocean, and the surface has barely been scratched on the extent of the sport’s potential in this country. In many ways, there is essentially a chicken and egg situation: basketball in South Africa has to become fully functional in order to attract the kinds of resources that are needed for it to serve the much needed developmental objective we all desire.

In closing, Thabo Sithole’s tweet to the minister made the necessary noise. The basketball fraternity has to seize the moment! Because we all want basketball to get its bounce back on South African courts.

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Mthembu’s goal is to win championships

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“Don’t let this pandemic stop you from paying that daily rent”

LONG time servant in the Basketball National League and one club man, Somusa Mthembu of Tshwane Suns discusses his basketball journey on The Big Tip Off.

Q: Where and when did your love for basketball develop?

A: My love for basketball developed back home in KwaZulu-Natal when I was still a young boy. I used to see certain tall guys walk past my house now and then, playing with a big ball using their hands. I was fascinated and wanted to be just like them. And from then on, the rest is history.

Q: As a young player, who played the biggest role in your development?

A: Two men by the names of Luthando (forgot his surname) and Seann Rubinek. Luthando taught me the basics and took me to my first provincial trials, which is where I met Seann, who taught me everything I know. I credit them for my development as a young player.

Q: How would you describe yourself as a player?

A: I love to win, so I’ll do everything in my power to make that happen. At the same time, I’m a team player, so I’ll take a step back sometimes so my teammates can shine and we all feel like we contributed to a win.

Secondary Pic — Somusa Mthembu wants to improve his handles and on court vision. Pictures: THE BTO

Q: What are the strong aspects of your game?

A: I’m athletic, agile, quick and I shoot pretty well.

Q: What aspects of your game do you feel you can improve on?

A: My handle and court vision.

Q: You have been a constant presence in the Basketball National League (BNL) and with one club, Tshwane Suns, what keeps you coming back?

A: They are the best team in the league.

Q: You are a three-time BNL champion. Which one the championships is your most memorable? And why?

A: The first one would be my most memorable because it was the third time I realised one of my dreams. I became a senior provincial player, professional player and a national champion in a space of two years.

Q: How did you feel when you received your first senior national team call-up?

A: I was overjoyed. Especially because they called my name last. I was so nervous. I came back home and cried with excitement when I told my parents.

Q: What is your goal in basketball (with your team and individually)?

A: With my team, my goal is championships, always. Individually, I want to be simply the best.

Q: Who is the greatest player in South Africa? And Why?

A: I can’t answer that question because there were many players before my time that were great and I’ve only seen a few. To say that so and so is greatest wouldn’t be accurate. I will say, I want to be the greatest though!

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

A: Kobe “Bean” Bryant. He is the reason I started watching basketball.

Q: Who is the toughest player you have faced on the court? And why?

A: Dr. Fumani Marhanele. I was never composed when guarding him, because he was quicker, stronger and jumped just as high as I did, so I didn’t know how to stop him.

Q: What is your favourite basketball quote? And why?

A: “If you stay ready, you ain’t gotta get ready” … I had to learn that, the hard way. Shout-out to Neo “Miyagi” Mothiba for that lesson.

Q: What was your lowest moment in basketball? And why?

A: My first national team game. I was very nervous because I had been benched two games prior (rookie minutes they called it). I subbed in, travelled, showed my frustration and was subbed out. I’ll never forget that moment. I felt like the worst player in the world.

Third Pic — Somusa Mthembu believes becoming a father has given him a different perspective of life.

Q: If you were not a basketball player what would you be doing? And why?

A: I would either be a soccer player, athlete (sprints and triple jump) or an animator. I have a love for those professions as well.

Q: What kind of character is Somusa on the basketball court?

A: High energy. Hype man. The loudest guy on the court. You will not be short of confidence when I’m around and I’ll put in maximum effort every time.

Q: Who has been the biggest influence in your life, off the basketball court? And why?

A: My twin brother. He gets me!

Q: What has been your greatest achievement off the basketball court? And why?

A: Having my beautiful daughter. It has put a lot of things into perspective.

Q: What are you doing to stay in shape during this time of COVID-19?

A: I’ve been using training programs that I’ve worked with over the years. They’ve helped me stay in shape during this lockdown, so I’m grateful for them.

Q: What words of encouragement do you have during this time of COVID-19?

A: Take it seriously. Stay safe and protect each other. This too shall pass. There is nothing the human body can’t adapt to. It’s only a matter of time and until then let’s do the right things and keep in mind that our goals as individuals are still valid. So don’t let this pandemic stop you from paying that daily rent. Work on your craft!

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Risto engineering for success on the court

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EVARISTO Pasipamire or simply ‘Risto’ is known for his ferocious dunks and athleticism on the court. The Big Tip Off caught up with him for a Q&A interview to find out more about his basketball journey.

Q: When did your love for basketball begin?

A: I started playing basketball right after high school in 2014 with the Cameo Basketball Club in Zimbabwe. I was actually a volleyball player in secondary school.

Q: Who were the role players in your development as a player?

A: Eric Banda and Tawanda Chitsinde. These were the guys who taught me the fundamentals and gave me a better understanding of the game.

Q: You are known for explosive dunks; do you remember the first time you dunked?

A: The first time I dunked was in 2015. I was playing for Cameo in a match against JBC … That was one of the derbies in the Zimbabwe league. I enjoyed the love I got and how the fans went crazy.

Q: What was your favourite in-game dunk? Where was it and why does it stand out for you?

A: My best dunk came during the 2018 USSA men’s final, when my team, Wits took on VUT: the hype, the mixed emotions at that moment from myself, my teammates and the fans. It’s hard to explain. It was a great game. We thought we were going to win at that point, but unfortunately, we lost that final.

Q: Apart from dunking, can you point out, which other aspects of your game are strong?

A: I am athletic. I can run down the floor better than some guys my size. I pass the ball well and I have a good shooting percentage, which I’ve been working on for the past few years.

Q: Can you reflect on the first time you received your first senior Zimbabwe national team call-up? And what did that call-up mean to you?

A: My national team breakthrough came in 2015 during the Afrobasket qualifiers in Bulawayo, where I helped Zimbabwe to qualify for its first tournament. As a rookie, I had so many minutes and made crucial plays. Although my selection was criticised by many, I didn’t care! I had to do what I had to do and things went well.

Q: Which is the toughest team you played against internationally? And why?

A: The toughest team I have faced was Egypt in 2015. They were ahead of us by far, in terms of talent, and decision-making and most of their guys were professionals.

Q: Who is the toughest player you have faced internationally and locally? And why?

A: It has to be Tsakani Ngobeni. I played against him in the 2015 and 2017 Afrobasket qualifiers. His inside and outside game differentiate him from many and he is very hard to guard.

Q: Who is your favourite teammate locally or internationally? And why?

A: Tatenda Maturure aka “Dummy”. He’s the most naturally talented athlete I’ve seen in my career and delivers when you need sh** to be done.

Q: Who is your all-time favourite player? And why?

A: Lebron James. His skill, athleticism and size are a great combination. And purely on what he has done for the game of basketball on and off the court.

Q: You have also furthered your basketball career here in South Africa and played at various levels (Basketball National League, Johannesburg Basketball League and Varsity Basketball). Can you reflect on your time playing here in South Africa?

A: Well, the goal was to always play professionally and fortunately basketball got me this far (SA). I received a scholarship from Wits University and managed to further my studies in engineering, which I am passionate about.

Q: Where do you see your basketball progressing, internationally and locally?

A: I just want to finish my studies for now, so that I can have options. When it comes to basketball, the BAL is a game changer on this continent, so it’s good to keep an eye out for that, and Europe has a good basketball scene. I am excited to explore the opportunities as they come.

Q: If you were not a basketball player what would you be doing?

A: I think I would be playing volleyball ?

Q: How have you been keeping busy during the lockdown period?

A: Well, I have been focused on my studies, working out ??, chilling, and watching movies.

Q: Outside of basketball, who are the positive influences in your life?

A: It’s my mom who is based in Bindura, Zimbabwe.

Q: What are your hobbies?

A: I enjoy watching documentaries a lot and listening to music.

Q: What is your favourite quote? And why?

A: I hear my mom and friends say ‘I am special’, but I still don’t get it. Basketball and engineering will bring that out, I guess!

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