THE Cape Town Tigers are a young club on the African basketball scene. They head to Season 4 of the Basketball Africa League (BAL) as hosts of the Kalahari Conference, where they hope to improve on their past performances. The Big Tip Off previews the South African team ahead of the BAL.
Team: Cape Town Tigers
Country: South Africa
History: The Tigers are one of South Africa’s youngest clubs. Founded in 2019, the team has garnered much attention for its success in the past four years. They will be making their third appearance in the BAL.
Tigers coach Florsheim Ngwenya is a proven winner and is well-versed in international basketball. Pictures: FIBA
The South African side has had its fair share of stars adorn their roster, with most recently having former OKC Thunder player Josh Hall and Zaire Wade, the son of NBA Hall of Famer Dwayne Wade, suited up for them in Season 3 of the BAL.
But the Tigers have not managed to get past the quarter-finals in their two BAL appearances. Can the third attempt be the charm for them?
The Tigers secured their spot in Season 4 of the BAL through Road to BAL. The South African Champions went undefeated in the tournament and defeated the Oilers in the final game.
Coach: South African coach Florsheim Ngwenya will lead the Tigers in their quest to become a title contender in their third BAL appearance. The experienced Ngwenya previously led the South African National team from 2007 to 2011 as head coach.
He has also won multiple BNL titles as the Head Coach of the Egoli Magic club, making him the most successful coach in BNL history. Ngwenya led the Tigers to two Division East Road to BAL Championships and one BNL title.
Star Player:Samkelo Cele is a standout player on the South African team. As a small forward and guard, his athleticism and high motor impact both ends of the court. He can quickly shift the game’s momentum in favour of the Tigers.
Despite coming off the bench, Cele leads the team in most statistical categories. Cele has averaged 13 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 1.7 steals per game during the Road to BAL. He was among the best defenders in Season 3 of the BAL and earned a place in the League’s All-Defensive Team.
AL Ahly are one of the favourites ahead of Season 4 of the Basketball Africa League (BAL). They also head to the tournament as defending champions. The Big Tip Off offers some insights into one of Africa’s premiere teams in basketball.
Team: Al Ahly
Country: Egypt
History: One of Egypt’s great sporting institutions, Al Ahly has seven Egyptian Super League titles, 11 Egyptian Cup trophies, and four continental titles.
The Egyptian giants won the Basketball Africa League Season 3 title, a FIBA Africa Clubs Champions Cup and two African Basketball Cup Winners Cups.
Ehab Amin embraces coach Agustì Julbe after the final of last year’s BAL. Pictures: FIBA
Route To BAL: Egypt are one of six countries whose clubs have direct entry to the BAL, and as champions of their country, Al Ahly will defend the (BAL) title they won last year in their debut season.
Coach: Spanish coach Agustì Julbe will lead Al Ahly in their quest to defend their title. During his coaching career, Julbe has contributed to winning titles as an assistant coach. As head coach, he has also delivered silverware.
While at Barcelona, he contributed to a Euroleague trophy, three ACB League titles, three Spanish Cup trophies and three Spanish Super Cups as an assistant coach.
As coach of Zamalek, he won a league and cup, and when he took over the reins at Al Ahly, Julbe won back-to-back league and cup titles.
In the inaugural season of the BAL, he led Al Ahly’s rivals, Zamalek, to the championship. He did likewise with Al Ahly last year.
Star Player: Ahab Amin is one of the stars of the Egyptian game. The Egyptian international was one of Al Ahly’s leading scorers in their BAL title-winning season last year.
The shooting guard averaged 12.7 points per game. He was among the team’s top players in other statistical categories. Amin averaged 3.9 assists and 4.7 rebounds, and led the team in steals (averaging 1.9).
DYLAN Whitbread describes finding basketball at 13 as a life-saving moment for him, especially as he was experiencing great adversity before entering teenagehood.
As a nine-year-old, his mother held the fort when his father left the family, but a young Dylan needed an outlet to cope with his sense of loss. So, when basketball came into Whitbread’s life, then a King Edward VII pupil, it gave him a second family and would later open avenues beyond his wildest imagination.
“I was blessed to have a mom who did her best for my brother, sister and I. My dad left when I was nine, so finding the game gave me a sense of refuge,” said 29-year-old Whitbread. “When you have your four teammates around and the rest of the squad – you feel like you have a family that supports you and it gives a space to forget about the problems at home.”
The Cape Town Tigers player says his mother is his inspiration. He also credits her for instilling a strong work ethic, which helped him chase his dreams.
“When my dad left, she could have easily given up, and it would have altered our lives. She woke up everyday to go to work and came home late. It was just to put food on the table… and put her kids through school. So I gained that work ethic from her and I also want to make a difference in the world,” said Whitbread.
Dylan Whitbread says the BNL’s success hinges on buy-in from players and fans. Pictures: The BTO
As things on the home front stabilised, he experienced an upward trajectory in basketball. Whitbread got to captain the Under-18 Gauteng team and also played for the Under-20 South African team. Another feather on the cap for Whitbread was being part of the 2011 Basketball Without Borders (BWB) class that launched the careers of NBA MVP Joel Embiid.
Whitbread says the experience at the BWB taught him to be ready when opportunities are presented to him – even at the drop of a hat.
“I got the call quite late. I could have done a little more preparation if I had known sooner. It taught me to be prepared and not to wait for those moments to get ready. But I will say it was great getting advice from professional coaches, and you understand what it takes to get there,” said Whitbread. “The NBA is so far away, and the closest you got to it was watching two games a week at 3 a.m. So when you experience something like that (BWB), you can dream and understand what it takes to get there.
“That is why I am excited for the youth because they have the chance to see professional teams, the NBA Academy and the Basketball Africa League (in South Africa). So they have some examples and they can dream big and go for those opportunities,” said Whitbread.
In terms of dreaming big, Whitbread also decided to pursue an education and play basketball in the United States. While the playing part is the most exciting thing for most, Whitbread, who graduated with a BSc in Physics at New York-based Colgate University, is an advocate for education.
Whitbread, a walk-on player at Colgate, understood that sport could change an individual’s economic conditions, but he emphasised being in a classroom can open a myriad of opportunity.
“Any chance you get to travel in life helps change your perspective. It opens up your worldview. As I said earlier, I was at BWB, but when you get to the United States, you learn that basketball is a different machine, and you must understand how that machine works,” said Whitbread.”
“My college experience was great and I went to a fantastic school. I got a good education, and I graduated. I am a big supporter of education because it opens many doors.
“Even for the kids that watch us play… Yes, sport is important. It can be a way out of poverty and other situations, but education is just as important, if not more. I would not trade that experience for anything.”
Since returning to South Africa, Whitbread has continued his playing career in the country’s Basketball National League (BNL). In his spell in the BNL, he turned out for Egoli Magic and later the Tshwane Suns, where he won his first league title last year.
Earlier in the year, he found a new home at the Tigers – a move that broadened his playing horizons. Whitbred got to experience the BAL Nile Conference in Cairo and playoffs in Kigali.
He also won a second BNL title with the Cape team. He reflected on the ups, downs and potential solutions with the league.
“If you play basketball, it is a gift you have. You have to utilise it. I was initially of the mindset that those challenges were keeping me away from the game,” said Whitbread. “When I spoke to my family and people close to me, they asked me, ‘What are you getting from stepping away’?
“By persevering through those moments, it has given me another opportunity. The frameworks here will improve, but you need buy-in from people. The top players have to play in the league, and that is how it will improve.”
Whitbread also spoke about his first championship at the Suns. “It was fantastic, but I was thinking what is next. I can tell you the novelty of winning a league title wares off quickly. But it did means a lot in terms the work I put in over the years to get to that level,” he said.
Dylan Whitbread feels the Tigers will bring intensity at the BAL next year. Pictures: FIBA
The move to the Tigers, earlier in the year, coincided with the team’s second appearance at the BAL. The competition was, as Whitbread reflected, an “eye opener”. The continental experience has also helped Whitbred change his approach to the game.
“Initially, I was recruiting guys to come join Suns. I had no intention of joining the Tigers, but I got an invite to work out with some of their guys,” said Whitbread. “I think my work ethic was what won the management over. And they were like, ‘listen, why don’t you give it a try’. As someone that wants to grow I would be remiss not to take that opportunity.”
“It (the BAL) was an eye opening experience. Watching it on TV and being there is not the same thing. I wish I had more time to prepare, even though I don’t know what I could have done. After that I went back to the drawing board. I am working with a skills trainer and working on my body.”
Looking ahead, Whitbread and the Tigers will prepare for another BAL adventure next year after they qualified with a 5-0 record at the Road To BAL Elite 16 in November. This time, the expanded tournament sees South Africa hosting the Kalahari Conference.
Whitbread, looks forward to the competition, but he took a pragmatic tone because a lot of change tends take place ahead the BAL. The volatile nature of international basketball has seen players come and go, and this impacts team chemistry.
“When there is a lot of time between when we qualified and when the tournament starts, things can change. We have seen it before where import players return and some don’t. So it’s on us as individuals to stay ready,” said Whitbread. “We will always bring intensity, effort and professionalism. So, wherever we play, I think South Africans will be proud of how we represent the country.
“We want to put South African basketball on the map. I think that is starting to happen. We want to play with pride and as a band of brothers.”
The adversity of his life has shaped him for the challenges of life, the game has and continues to teach him to stay ready and he can be proud of himself for staying focused and reaching for his dreams.
IN the final game of the Road To BAL Elite 16 Division East between the Cape Town Tigers and City Oilers (Uganda) – won by the Tigers last Sunday – the DJ played a familiar tune synonymous with victory in certain sporting quarters, Nkalakatha by Mandoza.
The popular Kwaito classic marked the national rugby team’s – the Springboks – Rugby World Cup triumph in October. Now courtesy of the Tigers’ third Basketball Africa League qualification, basketball got to enjoy Mandoza’s timeless banger.
Amidst the music and posing for team photos, Tigers’ star player Samkelo Cele went courtside to catch up with former teammates and friends.
He also took a few minutes to engage with some teenage fans before heading to the changeroom to take more team photos. Once there, they popped open and sprayed celebratory champagne. Whilst the celebrations continued in the changeroom, head coach Florsheim Ngwenya, his assistant Vincent Ntunja, team manager Elvis Ukpong, and other Tigers players sprinted to half-court.
As the changing room emptied, Cele was among the last few to leave. After freshening up, he caught up with The Big Tip Off to discuss his role at the Tigers, the support he got upon returning to South Africa, being a role model to younger players, his Elite 16 experience, and how the Tigers can improve their chances in Season 4 of The BAL.
Samkelo Cele has embraced his sixth-man role at the Tigers. Pictures: FIBA
Twenty-five-year-old, Cele was impactful at both ends of the court during BAL season 3 and the recently concluded Elite 16. He positively contributed every time he was on the floor, despite taking the sixth-man role – one he fulfilled at this year’s BAL Season 3.
Prior to joining the team, the former Durban High School (DHS) student met with the coaching staff, who explained their expectation of him. He knew he had a much bigger role to play on the team. And even when he is having a bad game, Cele is still the go-to guy.
The electrifying small forward contributes to the bulk of the scoring in most of the games they play. He intimated that he was not concerned about not getting a starting role.
Cele, a former University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma Drovers player, knows he has to continue doing a good job on the court.
Playing in an arena where you could hear a pin drop on most days, Cele could not help but notice the cheers from a handful of fans who trickled in to watch the Tigers’ games. Whenever the former All-American made a steal, shot from deep, or even threw it down for an electrifying dunk, it drew cheers from the small crowd.
This energy reminded Cele of his DHS days and made him feel at home. However, this time around, the support was a little different.
“When I played here in high school, I never felt the support and now I see it, I feel it and I am trying to embrace it as best as I possibly can,” said Cele who averaged 23 points and three rebounds per game during the Elite 16.
He recognized familiar faces and voices from his days at DHS amongst the crowd. One, in particular, was Dali Dzingwa, the general manager of the Basketball National League (BNL). Dzingwa is also his high school best friend’s father.
Cele shared: “Sicelo (Dzingwa) is my best friend and was a teammate in high school. His dad used to be very involved in our games and would talk to us from the sidelines. For the first time in years, when we played the NBA Academy, he called my name from the side and was coaching me again. It felt like high school all over again.”
Cele appreciated the support he received and recognized the impact it had on aspiring basketball players. Reflecting on his journey, he acknowledges the lack of role models for him to follow. Now he is grateful to be in a position where he can inspire and guide the next generation.
“I think that it is good for the kids coming up to see me being one of the main guys on the team. Them being able to interact with me has been cool,” said Cele.
In preparation for the Elite 16 competition, Cele and the Tigers faced a scarcity of scrimmage games, especially at the BAL level. Instead, they only played a few games against local clubs, which they won by a large margin. Although this seemed like a risky strategy, Cele believes it brought the team together.
“There is a saying that you’ve gotta stay ready to get ready, and I feel like all of us were always like that. We just had to adjust on the fly, and the more games we played, the better we became,” said Cele. Despite the lack of high-level competition, Cele doesn’t believe it impacted their readiness for the Elite 16.
The team’s reliance on each other and ability to adapt to different situations helped them bond. It ultimately made them one unit. As Cele put it, “I doubt it affected us, but it did force us to be a team. I don’t know if anyone noticed, but we moved the ball a little more than the previous times.”
Two days before the Elite 16 tournament, the Tigers faced off against the NBA Academy in an exhibition game. The young prospects surprised the Tigers with a win over the South African champions. However, Cele didn’t seem too concerned about the loss. He believes it wasn’t significant as they beat the Academy in their final group game later that week.
Samkelo Cele says winning rebounds will be key if the Tigers are to succeed at next year’s BAL.
According to Cele, “It was just an exhibition game, so we didn’t take it too seriously. We saw how they played in the first game and made the necessary adjustments in the second game (Elite 16), which we won.”
“We treated it as a game against the kids… To help them improve, because they represent the future of our continent.”
The Elite 16 final was a showdown between well-acquainted opponents. The Tigers and Oilers faced each other in last year’s (Elite 16) semi-finals and group stages of BAL Season 3. Having secured their tickets to next year’s BAL, the battle between the two teams was for bragging rights.
“When you play, you always wanna win so the final did matter. You always want to be able to say how many times you beat a team. When they had the chance to beat you – they couldn’t,” said the former Marist College Red Foxes player.
Regarding their victory, Cele recognizes its significance for setting the standard of preparation for the Kalahari Conference in South Africa.
Reflecting on the Tigers’ performance last season, he pointed out the team’s lack of rebounding as a major issue.
“I think that both times we lost, it was due to rebounding. The more we rebound, the better our chances are. I feel like we can play against any team on the continent,” said Cele.
Cele recalls the experience of playing against Stade Malien, who eliminated the Tigers in the quarter-finals. “I feel like talent-wise, they did not match up to us, but they out-hustled us and won every 50/50 ball. They out-rebounded us on both ends of the floor, so it’s rebounding,” says Cele.
“Most of the games we won were where we were good at rebounding. We give ourselves a chance if we rebound the ball well.”
Cele and the Tigers have ample time to fix their deficiencies and by the time the Kalahari Conference begins next year, they should be ready to roar.
Group A features host Cape Town Tigers, NBA Academy (Senegal), Dynamo (Burundi), and Pazi Basketball Club (Tanzania). Meanwhile, Group B comprises formidable opponents: City Oilers (Uganda), Ferroviário da Beira (Mozambique), COSPN (Madagascar), and JBC (Zimbabwe).
As the tournament approaches, anticipation grows for the return of familiar faces and the emergence of new stars. While playing on home turf, Cape Town Tigers seek victory but face the historical challenge of overcoming Burundian opponents. Bolstered by international players Terrance Ferguson, Cartier Diarra, and Terry Larrier, along with the expertise of 2023 All-Defensive player Samkelo Bryan Cele and BNL MVP, Nkosinathi Sibanyoni, the Tigers should be a competitive team.
The City Oilers, playing in their third Elite 16, bring size and physicality, making them top contenders for the coveted tickets. The acquisition of Dane and the return of Germain Roebuck Jr ensures that the Oilers will bring their A-Game.
Ferroviário de Beira has bolstered their ranks with new talent. The team’s star point guard, Will Perry, has reunited with Jermel Kennedy and Bourouma Sidibe. Former FAP centre Michael Mendes will provide depth in the front court. With Beira’s impressive offensive prowess and ability to shoot the ball well from behind the arc, they are one of the favourites for the tournament.
COSPN will have to improve after finishing winless last year. The Malagasy club will, again, be led by Bishop Coulter and Livio Ratianarivo. The team can look to build on their success so far in this year’s qualifiers and take advantage of the extended preparation period that the delay of the Elite 16 has provided them.
Newcomers Dynamo JBC and Pazi Basketball Club make their Elite 16 debut, aiming to establish their presence. JBC, reinforced by notable signings, seeks to elevate Zimbabwean basketball to new heights. Dynamo, awarded a wild card by FIBA, aims to rectify their only loss in the qualifiers behind the strength of teen sensation Israel Otobo.
Pazi Basketball Club, led by Cleveland Thomas and former NBA pick Hasheem Thabeet, finished undefeated in pre-qualifiers. The last-minute additions of Cleveland Thomas jr and Mareng Gatkouth give Pazi a lot of depth aside from their giant centre. Thabeet’s paint protection poses a challenge. The Tigers could struggle as they are thin in that department.
Hasheem Thabeet will be a key player for Pazi. Picture: FIBA
The NBA Academy, here for participation only, are led by rising star Khaman Maluach. He will be the X-factor in the tournament in this qualifying tournament. The Dakar-based Academy players held their own against the Tigers in a friendly on Sunday, winning 70-64. This young group of players will be no pushovers in Group A.
The tournament promises a display of incredible basketball skills, combining past matchups with the introduction of new teams. Stay tuned for updates and witness the competition unfold!
AGINALDO Neto and his NBA Academy teammates closed out practice with a free throw drill. When a couple of players missed their shots, the entire team had to sprint the length of the court. Of course, the budding prospects must complete their sprints within seconds and under the watchful eye of coach Alfred Aboya, who keeps count.
After a few more misses, they again have to sprint, this time, to the half-court, back to the baseline and then the length of the court. Much to the relief of some tired players, some already hunched over with their hands on their knees, South Sudanese centre Khaman Maluach scores the free throw to end the Friday practice at the Mandeville Sports Centre in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Aginaldo Neto has had a smooth transition into the NBA Academy. Pictures: The BTO
Neto, who spoke to The Big Tip Off ahead of the Academy’s Road To BAL Elite 16 Division East participation (21 November – 26 November), says this is the norm in their practices.
“This is something we are used to – running after we miss shots, no matter who is watching, this is what we do,” said Angolan-born Neto.
The 17-year-old point guard joined the Senegal-based Academy after last year’s FIBA U18 African Championships in Madagascar. Neto feels privileged to be part of the Academy setup and says he was undaunted when he left home to chase his basketball dreams.
“It was an easy process (joining the NBA Academy) because I lived in an academy before I left Angola. I always call my family on weekends. I talk about my experiences, and we share jokes. It’s been easy because I have support from my family and the Academy,” said Neto.
“I am feeling blessed to have (joined the Academy). It shows that hard work pays off. If I did not work hard, I would not be here. I feel like I am one of the best point guards on the continent. I also have the best teammates in Africa and the world.”
The Academy players are playing in the Elite 16 to showcase their talents for the 12 teams playing in the Basketball Africa League (BAL) next year. According to Neto, who was part of last year’s Academy exhibition team, there is much to play for at the Ellis Park Arena.
“We always want to win even if we are here to participate. This mindset never changes. We are here for business,” said the floor general. “Some of our alumni, Ruben (Chinyelo) and Thierry (Darlan) played in this competition. We learnt from their experience and we want to put on a show.”
The young prodigy also reflected on representing Angola at the junior continental competition in Madagascar last year.
“It was a great experience. I was one of the youngest players at 16 and playing against 18-year-olds. Also, everyone is here to support you, from the federation, coaches and teammates,” said Neto, who averaged 4.9 points, 1.4 rebounds and 1.1 assists in the island nation.
His present situation in West Africa is a stepping stone to opportunities. Neto also walks on the shoulders of giants in his home country of Angola.
The golden generation of Carlos Morais and Kikas Gomes, who won multiple AfroBasket titles, are an inspiration to Neto. While the duo spent most of their careers in Angola, Neto on the other hand has cast his vision beyond the shores of his country of birth.
Aginaldo Neto says he and his Academy teammates are for the Elite 16.
“I dream of being one of them and more. My desire is to play overseas, in the NBA or take my talents as far as possible. I want to be greater than them,” said Neto. “They inspired me when I started playing. I used to watch how Carlos Morais executed his pull-up jumpers and how he drove to the rim. Kikas Gomes is a great centre.
“They inspired me to work hard. Because of them and many others, we have 11 Afrobasket championships in Angola.”
Since their last AfroBasket title in 2013, Angola has experienced some lean years, but Neto feels he will be part of the generation that turns the corner.
“We want to be better. I believe my generation has a lot of talent and people should look out for us. We will work hard to reclaim our place on the continent,” concluded Neto.
JERMEL Kennedy wants a return to the Basketball Africa League (BAL). In his quest to achieve this desire, he has returned to Ferroviario da Beira. But before he can even dream of a second BAL appearance, Kennedy and Beira must navigate the Elite 16 Division East tipping-off in Johannesburg, South Africa (21 November – 26 November).
The veteran forward, who played for the Mozambican club in their BAL debut (2022), spent time overseas and in his home country, Canada. He spoke to the Big Tip Off about his return to Beira and the upcoming Elite 16. Kennedy also talked about his experience of the basketball scene in South Africa.
The 34-year-old’s decision to rejoin coach Luis Hernandez’s team results from a strong and positive relationship between the two. Despite having offers from elsewhere, the prospect of playing in the BAL swayed Kennedy’s decision.
The relationship between Kennedy and his Spanish coach begun a few years earlier. Although Kennedy couldn’t recall the exact year, he and Hernandez have stayed connected from around 2019. “We see basketball for the most part through the same lens, so we mesh well,” Kennedy recalled.
Jermel Kennedy says his bond with coach Luis Hernandez led him back to Beira. Pictures: The BTO
In their debut season, Beira failed to progress past the group stages, ending with a disappointing 1-4 record. Despite this, Kennedy viewed the experience as a valuable lesson. It taught him and the team the importance of making an impact within the short window that the BAL provides. He acknowledges that the team needs to improve rapidly to compete against other African clubs. Also, they cannot take their time for granted – whether on the court, watching film, or in the weight room. Unlike countries with longer leagues, they must progress quickly.
After that season, Kennedy had various options to consider, including playing in the United Kingdom’s British Basketball League (BBL). However, he ultimately decided to return to Canada to join The Saskatchewan Rattlers for his fourth season in the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL).
Kennedy has previously played in the CEBL during the offseason to stay active and improve, and he felt that playing at home would be a bonus, allowing his family and friends to see him in action. As he explains, “Although I had the option to play in the BBL, which was appealing at the time, it’s always great to have the opportunity to play at home.”
In an impressive Elite 16 Road to BAL performance last year, Beira proved their mettle as a serious contender, finishing second only to the Cape Town Tigers last year. Emboldened by their success, Beira set out to conquer the BAL Season 3 with renewed vigour.
Despite a valiant effort that took them to the playoffs, Beira was unfortunately eliminated by Senegal’s AS Douanes in the quarter-finals.
Kennedy’s initial visit to Beira left a lasting impression on him. The strong bond he had developed with Coach Hernandez and his team members left a lasting impact. This connection made his decision to return to Southern Africa an easy one.
“The coach approached me about the prospect of coming back, and I knew that my good friend Will Perry was also planning to return. I’ve always enjoyed playing alongside him, and our shared history of winning only made the decision more obvious.”
Kennedy, it seems, has found it easy to settle in with the team. He feels like he has never left Beira.
“I have built strong relationships with all my teammates and it’s as if I’ve seamlessly picked up where I left off,” said Kennedy. “We have great camaraderie. There are a few changes to the team… But I’m excited to see the impact we can make this time around”
Kennedy shared his thoughts on the growth of basketball on the African continent. His views come in light of the expanded BAL Season 4, which will see South Africa host the new Kalahari Conference early next year. He contrasted this with the CEBL, which is also in its early stages of development.
“Despite operating on different continents, both the CEBL and BAL share similar frameworks that have led to solid growth. They offer opportunities to players worldwide, fostering diversity and talent exchange. Innovative marketing, fan engagement, and partnerships contribute to their success,” said Kennedy.
Jermel Kennedy says Beira has to improve vastly if they qualify for the BAL.
Kennedy got a taste of the South African basketball culture when he participated in the 2022 Ashraf Lodewyk Memorial tournament alongside Beira teammate Will Perry. From that experience, Kennedy feels teams that will qualify for the Kalahari Conference are in for a treat.
“I think the energy and the passion of the fans in South Africa is underrated,” said the forward. “I think teams will be surprised by the number of fans that will be in attendance and their knowledge of basketball.”
With Kennedy’s versatility, a readiness to take on any role, and a winning mindset, he can make the team tick. The Canadian will be a key piece to Beira’s quest for a third BAL appearance.
* Beira are in Group B in the Elite 16 alongside COSPN (Madagascar) and City Oilers (Uganda), JBC (Zimbabwe).
THE Basketball Africa League (BAL) today (Wednesday) announced that the league’s expanded fourth season will tip off in March 2024 in South Africa.
The 2024 BAL season will feature the top 12 club teams from 12 African countries playing a record 48 games across four countries – South Africa, Egypt, Senegal and Rwanda – over four months. This is a milestone for South Africa, and the league, as the competition touches North, East, West and South corners of the continent.
Also, for the first time, the 12 teams will be divided into three conferences of four teams each. Each conference will play a 12-game group phase during which each team will face the other three teams in its conference twice. The inaugural Kalahari Conference group phase will take place in March, followed by the Nile Conference group phase in April and the Sahara Conference group phase in May. The top two teams from each conference and the top two third-place teams from across the three conferences will travel to Rwanda for four seeding games followed by an eight-game single-elimination Playoffs and Finals from May – June.
The BAL will announce the host cities, venues, dates and information about how to purchase tickets for the 2024 BAL season in the coming weeks. Beginning today, fans can register their interest in tickets to games in all four markets atBAL.NBA.com.
The BAL also today announced Afreximbank as an official partner of the 2024 BAL season. The BAL and Afreximbank will collaborate on “BAL Advance,” a new program that aims to support the holistic development of BAL players and teams based on their specific needs, goals, projects and interests. The program will offer players professional development opportunities within the broader sports industry, including in event management, broadcasting, analytics, technology, and more.
EVANS Ganapamo has his eyes cast on playing in his third Basketball Africa League (BAL) and he has already suited up for a new team. He recently joined Bangui Sporting Club of the Central African Republic (CAR) club and stated his move was inspired by a sense of patriotism and a desire to connect with his roots.
Joining Bangui also brought an end to his successful spell with South Africa’s Cape Town Tigers.
Before talking to The Big Tip Off about Bangui’s Road to BAL 2024 aspirations, and their slight wobble at the start of the qualifiers, the 29-year-old reflected on his final season with the Tigers.
Ahead of the BAL’s third season, the Tigers retooled and made notable additions that included Zaire Wade, son of Hall of Famer Dwayne Wade and All-American Samkelo Cele. In the coaching department, former LA Lakers Assistant Coach Rasheed Hazard was brought in. The changes made Tigers a team to look out for in the third instalment of the BAL.
“Last season, there was just a lot going on,” said the shooting guard. “I think we had the pieces to make things happen, but we were also a young team. Maybe a we could have kept some of the players.”
The Tigers made it to their second playoffs, but the injury bug bit – hampering the Cape team’s progress. Ganapamo was also among the casualties. He had hoped they would improve from their playoff position last year, but it was not to be. He could only watch from the sidelines as the Tigers fell to Mali’s Stade Malien.
“Overall, it definitely didn’t go the way I thought it would. I thought that we would have done better than the first season. So it was definitely bitter sweet,” said France-born Ganapamo.
Evans Ganapamo says joining Bangui has allowed him to connect with his roots. Pictures: FIBA Africa
By the end of the BAL season, Ganapamo worked his way back to game shape. His focus was on playing in the third season of the BAL. However, this off-season much like the previous one had something different to offer for him. He got a chance to play for Montreal Alliance in the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL).
“I went through my workouts and started feeling a lot better. Naturally, I wanted to get some games in and the opportunity to play in Canada came along. I wanted to know what how my body felt and if I was ready for the following season,” said Ganapamo.
The guard played with the team during the summer months before returning to the continent, only this time, it was to the CAR. So far, things have been looking up for Ganapamo.
“I didn’t know that I would be leaving the Tigers because the move to Bangui happened at the last minute,” said Ganapamo, who has represented the CAR at the international level. “Initially, I just went to play in the country’s tournament.”
Ganapamo joined the team on his birthday in late August. He helped them win the national title, which punched their ticket to The Road To BAL 2024. The team ignited local fans as they rallied behind Ganapamo and Bangui.
“It was amazing. They said that it was the most amount of fans that venue had had in 16 years,” recalls Ganapamo. “It was a crazy experience and a very big moment. That made me want to play there even more. After seeing the type of support I had, I was inspired to come back home.”
Playing a part in Bangui’s success fuelled his decision to help them reach Season 4 of the BAL.
“Cape Town was a great situation, I have nothing bad to say about them,” said Ganapamo. “I just felt like I have to help my country – the country where both my parents were born, to make the BAL. That meant a lot to me at the end of the day.”
For Ganapamo, there was also another motivating factor superseding basketball. The opportunity to connect with family, who still reside in the CAR.
“It was actually my first time in the country. I went there with my mother who was born there and grew up there. It was very emotional for her,” recalls Ganapamo. “She showed me the house where she grew up. I also got to see my grandmother on my dad’s side for the first time.”
While making the most of his time in the CAR, things on the basketball front were also moving. For their Road To BAL campaign, Bangui signed the likes of Rolly Fula, who played for Espoir Fukash in Season 2 of the BAL. The experienced Liz Mills was also appointed as head coach for the qualifiers in Cameroon, which took place in the first week of October.
Ganapamo and Bangui got off to a bumpy start in an opening loss to the Gabonese side, Espoir Basket Club (EBC).
“I think we came in just way too confident. We got to the game thinking we had already won. We played a team that was aggressive and athletic. Before we knew it, we were down 15 and then down 20. It happened so fast,” said Ganapamo. “You can’t take any team for granted. On our end we took it too lightly. Maybe we thought it was the first round and it was going to be an easy game and it just does not work that way in basketball.”
Evans Ganapamo’s final season with the Tigers ended with him being injured.
Bangui were surprisingly down by 24 points at half time, but they did have their runs and they tried to cut the lead in the second half, unfortunately their fightback came a little too late and the final buzzer sounded with them losing 73-69. This was an uncharacteristic loss for a side deemed favourites in the group and for Ganapamo, the loss was a much needed wake up call.
“I want to say I am kind of glad that we lost. The defeat woke us up to the fact that from the jump, no matter what team you’re playing, you have to bring your best game. We were just too comfortable.”
The side bounced back, treating every game as if it were a final and this helped them to finish top of their group. The final game of Group E, against the undefeated hosts Forces, Armees et Police (FAP) , was a true nail biter. It came down to a pair of free-throws which crowned Bangui the winners. Both teams punched their tickets to the Elite 16 Division West. The game itself was an indicator of what Bangui and Mills need to work on to perform better in the next round.
As for Ganapamo, he plans on bringing on more intensity to the Elite 16, which begins on Tuesday (31 October). Bangui are in Group B of the Elite 16 and open against Guinea club Seydou Legacy Athlétique Club (SLAC). Their next group fixture (November 1) is a clash against ABC Fighters (Cote d’Ivoire). The final group game for Bangui is on Thursday (November 2), against FUS Rabat (Morocco).
With the rapid growth of basketball in Africa, Ganapamo hopes to lead by example. He wants to show that professional athletes can have successful careers on this continent.
“I have a duty as a role model to lead as an example… To show the younger generation that you can play in Africa and do very well,” said Ganapamo. “I hope that I am giving them hope. If I can do it, they can do it too. It is just how I approach the game and life.”
AT 15 years old, Senegalese player Jean Jacques Boissy realised he could reach great heights in basketball, and now at 23, his career is skyrocketing. sHe has also had the opportunity to play in some of the game’s biggest stages.
From the time his father introduced him to the game, Boissy has seen his star rise in African basketball. The AS Douanes player, who spoke to The Big Tip Off during the week, is in Kigali, Rwanda for his club AS Douanes BAL playoff campaign. Before speaking on the Basketball Africa League (BAL), the floor general talked about where it all began. He also reflected on the steps he took to get to where is today.
“My dad introduced me to the game. He used to take me to the courts with him when I was a kid. He continues to be my greatest inspiration and I am grateful that he introduced me to basketball,” said Boissy, who spoke glowingly of his father. “I first started out as footballer, but at 15 locked into basketball. It has become a passion for me and a safe space. I am addicted to it. And when I am not playing, something is not right within.”
Jean Jacques Boissy says it was a good decision to join AS Douanes. Pictures: Getty Images
Boissy also represented the West African nation at the 2021 FIBA AfroBasket (Rwanda). He was recently part of the Lions of Teranga’s marathon journey of attempting to qualify for this year’s FIBA World Cup (Philippines, Japan and Indonesia), which ended in February.
While it was disappointing for Senegal not to qualify for the World Cup, Boissy says the experience of playing for the national team helped him prepare for the BAL.
“Playing for our junior national team taught me how to handle pressure at an early age because I played against top countries and a lot of international prospects within my age group at the time,” said the 6ft0 (1.83m) player. “About the World Cup qualifiers … Yeah, it was disappointing not to qualify. But there were some positives to take from the experience. I grew as a person. I believe I am a better teammate. The experience helped improved my game. And with these new skills, I want to contribute to my team’s campaign at the BAL.”
Before joining AS Douanes, Boissy had a stint in the Spanish LEB Silver playing for Cornella. He believes signing for AS Douanes for the BAL was a great move that can also open new doors for him.
“I think a made the best decision by joining AS Douanes for this season. I had one thing in mind when I came back from Spain: to improve my game and to get exposure. During the local championship, I proved I could be an asset to the team, and I want to win with them,” said Boissy an MVP of the Coupe St Michel.
In March, Douanes, who enjoyed home support in the Sahara Conference of the BAL and finished with a 3-2 record and were second in their group. Boissy, who improved with every game, was a vital cog in helping his club secure their passage to Kigali.
He shared his thoughts about playing at home in Dakar: “This is my first BAL competition. It has been one of my dreams to play on this stage and the dream has now come true. Playing in my country, in front of thousands of fans, including my family was not easy in the beginning. But it was amazing to experience them watching me do what I love. I will forever be thankful to them for their support,” said the former NBA Academy prospect.
The star player served up electrifying performances for his club and fans at the Dakar Arena during the group stages. He scored 13 points, had four assists and four rebounds in a 78-54 win over Stade Malien. Against Nigeria’s Kwara Falcons, Boissy scored 22 points and again had four rebounds and four assists.
Jean Jacques Boissy wants to win it all with AS Douanes.
Another shining moment for him was his double-double (15 points and 11 rebounds) and seven assists in a 76-60 win over BAL season champions US Monastir. In that final group game against the Tunisians, only victory sufficed.
“That was a challenging game, a do-or-die battle. In the end, we won, and it was spectacular for us. We also did not expect the fans to fill the arena the way they did that night. It was a beautiful moment and made that victory extra special,” said Boissy.
The Douanes point guard and his teammates take on Mozambican club Ferroviario da Beira in the playoffs on Sunday at the Kigali Arena. Boissy says this is a challenge they have prepared themselves for.
“The energy in the team is good. We know what we have come here to do. We want to win the BAL season three. But we have a game against Beira, and they are good team. So, we have to win that one as a part of trying to reach our goal,” concluded Boissy.
