Basketball Feature - The Big Tip Off

Lights, camera… It’s Dim time

NINO Dim had to rewind his mind to a decade ago when asked if he knew he would one day pursue a basketball career. He remembers asking a former University of Johannesburg teammate if it was possible for them to become pros one day, and understandably, his friend laughed the idea off.

The reason Dim’s friend may have found the question preposterous is that the poor governance of basketball in South Africa has left many despondent. Many who have made a career out of basketball are the exception, not the norm.

Fast forward to the present, Dim, playing in his second BAL tournament, explained that he worked hard and his unwavering determination has got him to this point.

He is enjoying playing in front of thousands of fans at the Sunbet Arena in Pretoria for his club, Johannesburg Giants.

“I really can’t describe it. Playing in front of your home crowd and your family being able to come and watch you is a luxury,” said Dim, who had an interview with The Big Tip Off on Saturday at the arena. “I don’t think I am taking it lightly, and neither are the other guys. It’s a really good feeling. More than anything, I am excited, and the hope is that it happens more often than not.”

Dim, who scored 13 points in a 100-70 loss to Tanzania’s DarCity, says stepping on the court on Friday night was a moment of relief.

“I mean, finally! Those are the words which came to mind. I have been working for this for a really long time. It’s work that I have been doing for over 10 years that has now come to fruition,” said Dim.

Nino Dim BAL Season 6 2026 — **Nino Dim has held on to his dream of being a pro basketball player. Pictures: The BTO**

He then reflected on the conversation with his friend from university. “Ten years ago, I was probably walking to church with my good friend Zet Mutingoza. I remember asking: ‘Zet, do you think we can go pro?’ He looked at me, laughed at me, and said ‘Hey man, I don’t know about that’,” reflected Dim.

Dim, who made his name playing for the University of Johannesburg and leading South Africa at the 2023 FISU World Student Games and the 2024 CUCSA Games, ploughed on and having someone believe in his ability was a sign that he was on the right track.

“In my head, I believed already. I just needed that extra push. That extra motivation from somebody that I looked up to, to just let me know ‘yo it can happen’,” said Dim. “I was just training and working out blindly… And by God’s grace, BAL happened, and we are here today.”

So, who is the person who encouraged Dim all these years to continue on his present path?

“The one person that I can speak about who impacted me in terms of that is Coach Mandla Ngema of UJ Basketball. He instilled a different type of mentality in me from the jump. I think he had a lot of expectations of me as a rookie coming in. He had a lot of expectations when I became a senior,” said Dim. “Him putting that amount of pressure on you… Pushing you physically and mentally continuously made me believe I am doing this for a reason.

“I believe I can somehow make it out of South Africa and go play professional basketball elsewhere.”

While he chases his basketball dreams, Dim made sure not to forget the man who pushed him towards his goal. He gave Ngema a token of appreciation when he made his first BAL tournament last year as an MBB player.

“Coach Mandla is a man of very few words. He is a man of action. The first season, when I got my jersey, I went back to UJ to give it to him as a way of saying thank you, coach,” said Dim. “He would come after practice to do some extra work with me. He put up shots with me. He helped fix my jumper. He is not a man of many words. He congratulated me and told me he is proud of me… Also anytime I need the UJ gym it’s available to me. I think that was him co-signing and telling me put in all the work I need to achieve greatness.”

Looking back at his first BAL season, Dim, who played in only three games in his continental club championship debut, says he gained perspective from seeing how the veterans and other professionals at his former club, MBB, put in work to stay in good condition or to remain at the top of their game.

“As much as I didn’t play, watching guys like Lebesa (Selepe), Neo Mothiba, Omar Thielemans, and Teafal Lenard Jr., confirmed the level of intensity and consistency you need to be effective on the court, and that’s something I took into consideration,” said Dim. “I had to work that into my programs so that I could become a better player, for me and whatever team I would play for next.”

He is now running with the Giants, who are less than a year old, but they have taken big steps in the game. They dominated in the Road to BAL, gaining automatic qualification after beating DarCity in the semi-final of the Elite 16.

Dim delivered an impressive Road to BAL campaign, averaging 13.3 points, 8 rebounds, and 3.3 assists, which contributed to the Giants’ BAL qualification.

Nino Dim in action at the BAL 2026 Season 6 — **Nino Dim had a good showing against DarCity despite the loss.**

While he had an outstanding continental qualification tournament, he says the team had to find common ground in a short space of time.

“From going to club champs not knowing each other to forming a brotherhood with guys like Josh (Ozabor), Aviwe (Mahlong), Pieter Prinsloo and Nathi Sibanyoni. Those are guys we went to war with a bunch of times, from Cape Town, to Zambia, to Kenya and now BAL season 6,” said Dim. “It has been a privilege. It’s just surreal. We knew this was the ultimate goal. We knew we wanted to go further, but coming here and taking it all in is something special.

“It’s exciting to be at BAL season six. I want to see what we will do next.”

Dim and the Giants have to move on from Friday night’s loss and focus on another reunion with an East African club, Nairobi City Thunder, who beat the Joburg club in the group stage and the Elite 16 final last year.

Before speaking on the game against the Thunder on Sunday, Dim touched on the loss to DarCity.

“Of course, we obviously wanted a win. The 30-point loss is something we are not proud of, and we don’t want to lose by that margin again,” said Dim. In terms of my production… I did what I could. I missed a bunch of shots I could have made. I had good looks. We have to do better.

“We have to put our best foot forward against NCT, which is our next game on Sunday. We have got to put our heads down and keep working.”

Nino Dim at BAL Season 6 2026 — **Nino Dim is ready to grab his opportunity.**

Dim has shown a glimpse of what he can do at this stage. He, however, feels his capabilities are not fully appreciated, and he wants to prove that he fully belongs on this stage.

“People have seen me perform in South Africa, but at this stage, I have not yet been considered. I have been pushed to the wayside quite a bit. So one has to be a bit tenacious and persistent… Understanding that my time will come, and I have to be ready for that moment,” said Dim. “I am patient, but I am hungry too. That is what I have understood about myself. When the time comes to be productive, I am going to do just that.”

Getting the Giants back on a winning track will be a good start, and with two more games remaining after the clash against the Thunder, Dim knows he cannot afford to miss a step for the remainder of this Kalahari Conference.

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Bargny Basket Club aiming for Senegal’s big leagues

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ENTERING the Bargny Basket Club’s facility in the Bargny Commune, located 50 km outside Dakar, Senegal, you observe girls and boys practising their drills under the supervision of the club’s coaches. Amidst the bouncing of basketballs inside the enclosed centre, this writer noticed a distinct work of art, a mural.

The painting is an homage to the members who have passed on. “When people come here, they need to know that there were those who came before them. These are former members who served the club, and this is a legacy they need to continue,” said former club player and current president Seydina Mamadou Lahi.

Part of honouring the people on the mural is growing the club, and Lahi’s mission is to ensure that Bargny BC makes strides in Senegalese basketball. “I am from Bargny. I have always been close to the team. My objective is to grow the club, and I want the men’s and women’s teams to get to the first divisions here in Senegal,” said Lahi.

Bargny Basket February 2026 — **Bargny Basket youth players go through their paces. Pictures: The BTO**

Lahi aims to achieve the goal of both the men’s and women’s clubs going to the upper ranks sooner rather than later. “The goal is to make the teams reach the first division (NM1 and NF1) in the next two to three years. But next year is a possibility; we are working on it, and we are confident we can achieve that,” said Lahi.

Serving the community has shaped the club. Having players gravitate towards it is a testament to the correctness of establishing the club in Bargny.

“Our impact is social and educational. The club is developing basketball players, but it is important that they attend school and do well. There are multiple teams, girls and boys, and through this club, we want them to improve their lives,” said Lahi. “The club used pay for some kids to go to school. This is our duty because we want to help the next generation in the best way possible.”

He further emphasised the importance of education. “Education is the key. Like these kids, I played basketball and went to school, and I became the person I am today because of that. I want the same for them. To have basketball and education, because sport is not the only way to succeed,” said Lahi.

Bargny Basket Club mural. — **The Bargny Mural honouring those who have passed on.**

“(In Senegal) Our attitude has been that one can’t be good at basketball and academics as well. So with good organisation and hard work behind the scenes, we have been able to achieve that. We want them to become succeful men and women. It would also be good if some of them have careers as professional basketball players. Who knows, some of them could represent Senegal.”

The club’s success depends on community support, and Lahi says they have worked hard to increase the club’s visibility in Bargny. “We have a good fanbase here. We have a lot of support. Sometimes we bring artists and wrestlers, and at times they perform, which helps the club’s image. These are important for the community and the club,” said Lahi.

As Bargny continues its legacy while charting its future, the responsibility now rests with Lahi. Moreover, as a man who appreciates all these elements, the club is surely in good hands.

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Ambitious Edi gearing HyperSonics for a championship run

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CôTE d’Ivoire legend Guy Landri Edi has taken a new step in his basketball career. He has assumed the reins as general manager of the local team, HyperSonics. This, after having had a productive playing career for the US College Gonzaga Bulldogs, the Elephants (national team) and various clubs abroad. It’s a job he looks forward to and has prepared for, and while he has hit the ground running in his front office role, he made a surprise admission.

“It’s an honour… It is what I always wanted to do. I went to college and studied sports management. Ideally, this was the next move after my career,” said Edi, a 2021 AfroBasket silver medallist. “Even if I did not officially announce my retirement… I have been planning for the next phase of my career.”

Edi acknowledges he has not played competitive basketball in a while, and as he fulfils his boardroom duties, he teased that he might play when the Ligue d’Or at a later stage.

“The fire of playing still exists inside of me, I am not going to lie. Every time I watch the game, I feel like, ‘arghh, I could be in there, I can still do this,” said Edi “Physically, I can still play at a high level, but preparing for after my career is also important. I always say to myself, ‘Why play another two years?’ ‘To prove what?’. I have done a lot in my career and played in major tournaments.”

Stating that he feels he has gas in the tank, will Landry suit up the HyperSonics jersey during the season?

“Aah, stay tuned, maybe!” exclaimed Landry. “I usually train with the guys to show them what it’s like to be a high-IQ player. Not just being physical, but you have to understand the game. I can see the gap. Although I haven’t played in two years, I can still do a lot more.

“The president has said they could keep me as a wild card for the championship playoffs, and if possible, the BAL.”

**Guy Landry Edi, in the colours of Côte d’Ivoire, has hit the ground running as general manager of HyperSonics. Pictures: Supplied and FIBA Africa**

While he mulls over his playing career, and as the GM of HyperSonics, Edi has a competitive pedigree. Having played in two FIBA World Cups and three AfroBasket tournaments, and twice in the FIBA Europe Cup, Edi knows what it takes to play at a high level and could have the right stuff to make HyperSonics a major force in Côte d’Ivoire. He says the right structures are in place at the club and that there is alignment between himself and the club’s president.

“We have high expectations. Our president has a vision. We started talking around April, and he was speaking about his vision, and he wanted me to come back and work with him,” said Edi. “We realised we have the same vision. The things he put in place in such a short amount of time, creating Hypersonics and also to have a second team in the first league, ABI Snipers proved this.

“And then you have a whole youth programme and women’s team. Then there are teams in the second and third divisions. So, everything is set up. If I were to do something like this, it would have taken me 10 years.”

Edi continued: “He had the whole thing set up, and he just needed me to come with my knowledge in basketball and help him restructure all these things and build a team that can compete in the league.”

Landry did not want to divulge the full plan, but he made one thing clear: he wants to turn HyperSonics into a championship team.

“We really want to put Ivory Coast basketball on the top level and are really trying to be champions this year… That is the expectation this year. When I talked to the guys, I told them, ‘last year you were almost last, so we have to take the tag of losing out because I am not a loser, and you guys don’t want to walk around with this tag too.’ So, from day one of practices, we set the bar high,” said Landry.

While he laid out the club’s ambitious plan for the season, there will be competition in the form of defending champions JCA, ABC Fighters, SOA and ASA.

Guy Landry Edi Cote d'Ivoire 2026 — **Guy Landry Edi has built up a respectable playing resumé over the years.**

Edi shared his view on the size of the challenge he and Hypersonics are facing. “It’s big. JCA are the champion. They have the crown right now. I wish them well for the (Road to) BAL. It benefits our country when we have a team that can get into the BAL. When we had the Road to BAL here (Côte d’Ivoire), I went there to support the team… The (JCA) head coach, Stéphane Konaté, is a friend of mine. We played together for many years in the national team,” said Edi.

“We played against (JCA) them a week before the Road to BAL, and they smacked us… It’s the message I wanted to send to the team. I knew our players were not ready to play against them, and I wanted them to know where we stood as a team and the level we needed to be to compete against that type of team.

“It was a wake-up call for the players. They are now coachable. You could see in our practices things are much better and the guys are realising we are not there yet. So it was one of the strategies I used to play against them (JCA) for the players to be receptive.”

Post the interview, Edi’s project to rebuild the HyperSonics is on track. They hold a 6-3 record in Ligue d’Or after winning two games in a row since the beginning of the year. This has placed them in the top four. If they maintain their momentum, Edi and the HyperSonics could shake things up in the Ivorian domestic league.

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Bingandadi talks living with lupus and returning to basketball

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“THE story starts in 2023. I was doing my masters at UCT. I was the captain of the first team, and I was trying out for the Western Cape Mountaineers (BNL franchise). Then I started to notice a few changes in my body, hair loss, chronic fatigue and weight loss. It’s something I struggled with (weight loss) as I was already a lanky and scrawny guy,” explained Mutsa Bingandadi.

Things were going well for Bingandadi, and the last thing he would have expected was to be engaging in a fight for his life. He was excelling academically and on the court, but the sudden changes in his body were signs of the beginning of a lifelong battle with the autoimmune disease, lupus. A consultation with a specialist doctor confirmed as much. This was his second encounter with the virus. He first witnessed his sister bravely battle the disease, but she sadly passed away due to complications related to lupus.

“I decided to see my GP, who then referred me to a rheumatologist… Yeah, his immediate indication was ‘this is probably lupus.’ With the added context that my sister, who is now late, also had lupus… it meant it could be a genetic thing,” said the shooting guard, who holds a masters degree in project management.

The doctor’s confirmation rocked Bingandadi. As devastating as the news was, he has been fortunate enough to have a community around him, one that willed him to keep fighting.

“Initially, I was shocked because I knew what it could mean for me. The support I received from family and friends was great. Part of the reason I reached out (to The Big Tip Off) was that sports had a huge impact on my life. It provided me with a space and community that can rally around people in need,” said the former St Alban’s College pupil.

**Mutsa Bingandadi says living with lupus has taught him to be resilient. Pictures: The BTO**

Having seen his sister live with lupus, what lessons did he take from her life? “The main thing was continuing to push, living life to the fullest and maintaining discipline. It’s an autoimmune condition, where the body attacks itself, and it can snowball into something much bigger,” said Bingandadi.

In his case, it did. The 2023 USSA All-Star says the disease took an aggressive turn during his relocation to the South African capital last year, costing him a season of basketball.

“In 2025, I had another flare-up. As I was moving from Cape Town to Pretoria, things got worse and worse. I was admitted to hospital and started receiving treatment after being diagnosed with lupus again. This time it was more concrete… I suppose,” said Bingandadi.

While he reacclimates to life in Tshwane, where he last played as a schoolboy and now works as a business analyst, what changes has he had to make in his life?

“… Some lifestyle changes. And dietary changes, mostly. And also being hyper aware of what I expose myself to. It impacts the skin, and so it means lots of sunscreen and looking for shade,” said Bingandadi. “Being outside and working out is difficult because of fatigue. I also have to be vigilant as far as taking my meds. Otherwise, it’s quite manageable.”

Given his present experience, he hopes his message reaches organisations and people who can help him raise awareness about lupus. “Part of what I wanted to share was that there are also financial implications to it. I come from a good family. I am reasonably stable too. But those medical bills do pile up, and things do become difficult. So my mind is set on people who ca afford the treatment. If anyone knows any organisations or institutions that I can get in touch with for fundraising events, that would be great. I have also reached out myself, and I am waiting for replies,” said Bingandadi.

Mutsa Bingandadi lupus story 2026 — **Mutsa Bingandadi feels ready to play basketball again.**

As he fights every day for his life, Bingandadi is also fighting to make a comeback to the game he loves. Having been out for a year, he wants to test his body to see what it can handle.

“I don’t take anything for granted… Whether it’s a training session, a gym session, or a game, I am always eager to get started and enjoy the experience. It’s a privilege to be able to be on the court,” said Bingandadi. “Although I had taken a break for a year, that itch is back, and I want to see how far I can get once I start up again.”

As he takes the courageous step to return to the court, what has he learnt about himself throughout this time of his life? “Resilience. Initially, you don’t think it’s possible. There are thoughts of giving up. I have learnt to take it one day at a time. I realise how sizeable the challenge is and I am determined to push through. And I see how that just spreads throughout the rest of my life as well. It can’t dominate your mind or your actions because there are other things to do,” concluded Bingandadi.

He has found a second wind in his life. His desire, his determination to add more to the pages of his existence, is exemplary for anyone facing adversity. His story is a triumph of the human spirit.

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Daho talks commentary journey and winning on the court

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MALICK Daho is a popular commentator in African basketball, but his connection to the game runs much deeper than being one of the voices of the game on the continent. Back in the day, Daho laced them up, and he graced many courts for club and country, but his journey was one of foresight, too. He understood he could not solely lean on basketball, and he would need something to fall back on – that wisdom paved the way for his present career as a commentator.

In an interview with The Big Tip Off, the Côte d’Ivoire-born Daho, who works as a commentator for France-based Canal+, explained why Africa holds a special place in his heart and shared about his magnificent playing career.

For Daho, giving back to Africa is a non-negotiable commitment, and although he lives and works in France, the continent holds a special place in his heart. The reason Daho is still very attached to Africa is because of basketball, which was a launch pad to his present career.

In his heyday, Daho was a baller for the famed institution ASEC Mimosa, when they still had a basketball team. Daho has also had the honour of playing for the Elephants (Côte d’Ivoire’s national team), and has called the shots from the sidelines as a coach.

So, given his love for the game and the continent, reciprocating was not optional – he explains why it is a must for him.

“I received a lot from African basketball. To be linked to the continent is a way for me to give back. I received a lot as a player and as a coach. So it’s duty to give back because Africa is part of who I am,” said Daho.

Malick Daho at the BAL — **Malick Daho is an ever-present face at the BAL. Pictures: The BTO and Supplied**

Since transitioning to being behind the microphone as a commentator, Daho has and continues to use his voice to capture the action, thrills and spills of basketball in Africa. He has been a fixture at tournaments like the AfroBasket and the BAL.

Daho says long-serving FIBA Africa secretary general Dr Alphonse Bile, a man who coached him during his playing days, facilitated his lending his voice to African basketball.

“When I started working for Canal Plus in France, I asked myself, ‘What can I do for the continent?’.

I talked with Alphonse Bile, my former coach. He was familiar with my work, and he told me, ‘We are proud of you. Every time I watch you on TV, I am proud,” said Daho. “I asked him, ‘What can I do for Africa’? He asked if I was available for commentary in competitions on the continent, ‘I said Why not!’ That’s when I started working with FIBA Africa and later the BAL.

“It’s been great for me. Being in France, but being able help my continent is a blessing for me. I want to help grow the game and empower it as a journalist.”

Daho says that as a school pupil, he was always fascinated by journalism and all its elements of communication.

“During my school years, I really wanted to be a journalist. I liked to read and write stories. I read a lot, and from what I had read, I thought to myself, ‘I can make a summary of things’,” said Daho.

Before attending university, he began his career as a journalist, but he understood he needed higher education to grasp the finer points of the profession.

“I started my career in Côte d’Ivoire. I already had the writing ability. It was practical, but having the theory too was important. So I attended a journalism school. I was one of the oldest students there,” said Daho with a light laugh. “I improved on my writing, commentary and communication. Later, I got the opportunity from Canal Plus. Before I had reached out to them, but they told me they would get back to me. So they called me to do a test. It was an NBA game, and they wanted to test my knowledge… Can I follow the action, and will people understand the picture I am painting?

“Now it’s my job, it’s my life. I also want to be involved in grassroots basketball, but right now journalism is what puts food on the table.”

Malick Daho winning a trophy 2025 — **Malick Daho had a successful playing career with ASEC Mimosa.**

Before his second career as a pundit, Daho managed to carve out a successful playing career with Stade Abidjan, ASCEC Mimosa and the Côte d’Ivoire national team. Listening to him speak on it, one picks up that he was self-assured and believed in his talent, but he was also aware that things could go pear-shaped.

“In my mind, I knew I wanted to be a basketball player, but you also can’t tell the future. You can have an injury, or you might not be as good as you think you are. So I knew I had to have something else. I had to consolidate those areas of my life,” said Daho.

While injury would eventually curtail his career, his playing days were fruitful. He took a bold step early on after a club president at ASEC Abidjan had told him he would have to be content with the youth ranks when Daho felt ready to play at the senior level.

“I remember as a player for the ASEC Mimosa youth team, the president told me I was too young to move up to the seniors, and needed another year. I told him I know what I could do. I may have been young, but I knew my capability,” said Daho. “My age should not determine my quality… I moved to Stade Abidjan… During my two years with them (Stade Abidjan), we beat ASEC twice in the national championship.

“After that season, the president of ASEC came to see me… ‘How can you do that?’. ‘You started with us, now you are beating us… How can you do that?’. We want you to come back (to ASEC).”

Daho returned to ASEC, and his comeback led to domestic titles and a continental triumph in 1989. He describes that era of basketball as less tactical than today.

“We had some very nice players, but the level of tactics was not the same as you have nowadays,” said Daho. “During that time, we had athletic players, good shooters, but in terms of tactics and coaching, it was not at the same level as it is today.

“I enjoyed playing against Senegal. They thought that because of my surname, I was playing against my own country. A lot of people (from Senegal) used to call me Ndao and not Daho. Also, there are a lot of people called Malick in Senegal, so I enjoyed playing against them. It was a very nice time.”

Malick Daho as coach 2025 — **Malick Daho turned to coaching when his playing career came to an end.**

The end of his career, while disappointing, is something he had always known would come. “I learnt to deal with it because I am a teacher too. Being a teacher in physical education helped me a lot. It did hurt, but the transition allowed me to start my coaching career. I started coaching the U16 team (of ASEC). So the transition was easy for me,” said Daho.

He also appreciates the relationships he built that continue to benefit him today.

“What I took from this did not only come from the court. I have built a lot of connections and relationships that help me in my job,” said Daho. “As a journalist, you need connections. When I need information, I know I can call this guy from that country to get the relevant information. I can say it’s gold. Human relationships are very important.”

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Kalua believes getting to the BAL is a marathon not a sprint

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GRIFFIN Kalua will steer his club, Bravehearts Basketball Club, during the Road to BAL, having armed himself with new knowledge. This, after he journeyed to Saly, Senegal, for the BAL Pro Camp last month. The trip to the camp (25-27 September) in the West African country both opened Kalua’s eyes to new strategies and left him asking questions.

While he left with a few more tricks up his sleeve, Kalua, speaking to The Big Tip Off early in the month, could not help but note that the camp benefited one part of Africa and excluded the other. From an Xs and Os perspective, Kalua pointed out that some African coaches and players had come catching up to do.

“There is much we can learn about modern concepts from the NBA and other professional leagues, including how they expect their players to do certain things. It was vital for me to attend the camp,” said the Bravehearts owner and coach. “They (The BAL) want to prepare coaches and players… If they get opportunities (to go overseas), they should not feel out of place because some players have gone to America for trials, and there were concepts that coaches there had looked out for, which those players were not familiar with. Or if African coaches go for (job) interviews, and it is found that they do not know the concepts.

“So they want to bridge that gap between professional basketball and where we are in African basketball. We learnt a lot of concepts that are modern and popular in the NBA and Euroleague. So it was vital for players and coaches to be there.”

Kalua Bravehearts BIBC 2025 — **Griffin Kalua says Bravehearts are good to go for the Road to BAL. Pictures: The BTO**

Kalua, who funded his trip to Senegal, noted that Africa is gradually making progress. However, he emphasised the importance of inclusivity, stressing that the benefits of the program should reach the entire continent.

“The gap is narrowing a little bit. Unfortunately, it’s only narrowing for certain parts of Africa. Not Africa as whole. It’s like there is a bias towards certain parts of Africa. So the gap will be growing among African countries,” said Kalua.

Questioned further why he thought the gaze of organisations like the NBA and the BAL would focus on some countries and not others, he lamented the lack of leadership, particularly in Southern Africa.

“If you look at Zone 6, only Angola and Mozambique are serious about their basketball… The rest of the countries are behind. So it’s understandable why there would be a kind of bias. Why these programs are concentrated in countries like Senegal is that they are serious about basketball,” said Kalua.

With the Southern African leg of the Road to BAL around the corner, he hopes the X’s and O’s concepts he learnt in Senegal will pay off for Bravehearts.

“We have already started to implement some of the concepts. Fortunately, because we travelled a lot and we played different teams, we were already on the right path,” said Kalua. “This (the pro camp) has pushed us closer to where we want to be. So, the implementation was not difficult because we were already aware of some of the concepts.”

With ballers like Harrison Banda, Ian Limbe, Faad Billy, Milton Caifaz and Americans Kirk Smith and Marquis Cunningham being part of the Bravehearts team and lessons learnt from the Bravehearts International Basketball Challenge (BIBC) in late August, Kalua believes the club can qualify for the Elite 16.

“I am confident because we have sorted out the areas of concern. We only have to finalise the clearances of our players. We don’t want a repeat of what happened in Zimbabwe, where we couldn’t field players because of clearances. So we hope to clear everybody as soon as possible,” said Kalua.

Griffin Kalua BIBC 2025 — **Griffin Kalua says his players are up to scratch with new basketball concepts.**

While Kalua’s ambition is to qualify Bravehearts for the BAL, he reiterated the message of patience.

“I am not in a hurry. When you look at the level of competition at the BAL or the Elite 16, it’s not easy, it’s hard,” said Kalua. “Our goal is to make the Elite 16. Our experience at the Elite 16 last year helped us make adjustments that we believe are good enough.

“We are not going to buy our way to the BAL. We are going to work and the results will speak. It’s not something that we will be denied for a long time. We will get that opportunity to play at the BAL.”

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Ramabu, Dolphins chase Elite 16 spot in Road to BAL

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BOTSILE Ramabu intimated that playing in continental basketball gave him a rude awakening. The Botswana-born baller, a former student-athlete at West Virginia University Potomac State College, admits he initially underestimated the game on the African continent. So, it took something special to convince him African basketball was no child’s play.

“It has been a big transition for me. I was one of the people who came from the US, and maybe I did not respect the game in Africa the way I should have. Tournaments like the Road to BAL and 3X3s around the continent showed me the talent and competition is there. It showed me African basketball should be respected as well,” admitted Ramabu.

Past experiences on the court have humbled the 24-year-old Ramabu. While making the Road to BAL looks to have been the easy part, unfortunately, the attempt to advance beyond the preliminary stages with the Dolphins Basketball Club (2023) and Botswana Defence Force (2024) has proven a tall and frustrating task.

Botsile Ramabu Dolphins 2025 — **Dolphins’ big man Botsile Ramabu has learnt to fly high in the Road to BAL. Picture: FIBA Africa**

For Ramabu and the Dolphins, the disappointments of the past can change in the coming weeks. With the Southern African leg of the Road to BAL qualifiers set to take place, possibly in Zambia (at a date to be determined), the supremely talented Ramabu and the five-time domestic league champions, Dolphins, will return to the Road to BAL competition for a third time.

“From the beginning (of the season), one of our objectives was to win our domestic league and get back to the qualifiers. Losing the title to BDF last year was disappointing, so it felt good to get it back. Going back to play at this stage again with the Dolphins also feels good. It’s great to put the Dolphins on top again,” said Ramabu.

Recalling the journey to once again capturing another title for the Dolphins and winning his first as a professional, the 6ft8 (2.03m) forward highlighted a hurdle early on for the club, which would go on to solidify them as a unit.

“We had some adversity at the beginning of the season. We had a preseason tournament, which the Police (V Basketball) won. From that moment, they (Police) were seen as the favourites to win (the title). So the adversity helped us push through, and we finished the season undefeated. It shows we deserve to be where we are,” said Ramabu, a former St Albans College pupil. “It also felt good to win my first championship. In 2023, I joined Dolphins for the qualifiers, as I was playing for another team prior.”

Ramabu continued: “It feels good to be doing it with a team I want to be on. This is a team I am comfortable with – my brothers. Great coaching staff. Great management. Amazing leadership from my captain and coach. It feels good to win something like this with the right team.”

Having learnt from falling short with the Dolphins and BDF, Ramabu says ensuring the team is fine-tuned and singing from the same page on the court will be crucial to the success of the club (Dolphins).

“It’s something we have spoken about as teammates. Small details can be the difference between winning the game by 10 or losing the game by 10. The good thing about this group is that several of us have played at the Road to BAL before. Having guys who have been there will help us execute the right plays in offence and defence in crucial phases of the game,” said Ramabu. “Those are the small details I am talking about. They can help you win the game.”

Botsile Ramabu in action for Dolphins 2025 — **Botsile Ramabu hopes to be all smiles at the end of the first round of the Road to BAL.**

Knowing where they are and the playing personnel in the team, how far will the Dolphins go in this year’s Road to BAL?

“I see us going to the Elite 16. It’s no knock on the teams that will be there, it’s just the faith I have in my group,” said Ramabu. “We have gone through challenges of a financial nature – fortunately, our coach has helped us focus on the game, while management deals with the financial stuff.

“So I see us taking a step closer. In 2023, when we hosted, we won two out of our three games, and we had hoped to get a wild card, but that did not happen. So this time around, the goal is to take big steps towards making it.”

Both Ramabu and the Dolphins will hope the coming third Road to BAL appearance will also be the charm that leads to the Elite 16. The road to the tournament comes with financial challenges, but with the necessary support, a solution will be within reach. These Dolphins are ready to swim against the tide and make waves on the big stage!

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Ubisse and Beira look to get on track at Road to BAL

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FERROVIARIO da Beira forward Helton Ubisse has been sporting a distinctive look, which has set him apart from his teammates. While not by choice, the Mozambican has worn goggles since 2023. The eyewear which Ubisse has had to wear after sustaining an injury that kept him out for six months has not diminished his prowess on the court, and he has referred to it as a part of his style.

“I had a small surgery on my eye, so I have to protect the area because of the physical nature of the game. At first, it was hard to adapt to the goggles, but now I’m more comfortable. I sometimes forget I have them on,” said Ubisse. “They have become a part of me. They are my style. People characterise me with them.”

Another trait Ubisse possesses is being a formidable scorer and rebounder for the six-time Liga de Mocambicana de Basquetebol champions. The long-serving nimble-footed big man has always shifted a gear for the Locomotivas in inter-African club competitions. In the years Beira competed in the old FIBA club tournaments and the current Road to BAL, the 30-year-old has delivered the goods.

Ubisse has a career average of 12.2 points and 7.3 rebounds in club qualifiers and competitions. The 30-year-old says he always strives to play at a high level and improve his game.

“I have to invest more in shooting the ball because it’s Modern basketball. The goal is always to improve the average of points and rebounds. I’m working hard to be at the highest level this year,” said Ubisse.

Helton Ubisse Ferroviario da Beira 2025 — **Helton says the Road to BAL qualifiers are tougher than the old FIBA Club qualifiers. Pictures: FIBA Africa**

Having competed in the old FIBA qualifiers, how do they compare to the Road to BAL? “The FIBA qualifications tournament is easier than the Road to BAL,” said Ubisse.

“Teams in the Road to BAL are stronger because everyone wants to be in BAL. The teams invested more in their players and coaches, and there are quality foreign players.”

Beira, who competed in 2022 and 2023 BAL, are also making a return to the Road to BAL after last competing in 2023. He says it was “frustrating” to miss out on the Road to BAL after making consecutive appearances from 2021.

“It was frustrating because in the last three years we were always Mozambique’s team… That’s why we organised ourselves this year and won our national championship to be able to be on the Road To BAL,” said Ubisse.

While citing the lack of preparation in their last Road to BAL, he says this year the approach will be different.

“We need to work harder and go into this year’s tournament with more humility. Importantly, there should be respect among us players. I think these are the things that will make us successful on the court,” said Ubisse. “We didn’t prepare well as a team (in 2023). We thought the competition would be easy, and we would enter BAL. Instead, we got a surprise.”

Helton Ubisse Ferroviario da Beira — **Helton Ubisse says the goggles are part of his identity on the court.**

Since then, Mozambique have not had a team compete at the Basketball Africa League (BAL) in the last two years. The absence from the BAL is a concerning issue for Ubisse, given his country’s strong passion for basketball.

It’s not good for Mozambique because BAL is the highest level of basketball in Africa. It also shows that clubs from other countries are investing well,” concluded Ubisse.

Ubisse is correct that clubs are investing in continental competition, and Beira have not been left behind. They may have gone off the rails two years ago, but a tightening of nuts and bolts and a good greasing of the wheels could make the Locomativas a mean machine in their return to the Road to BAL.

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Chukwurah, Blazers to follow players who know the Road to BAL

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ANTHONY Chukwurah was reflective about what basketball has done for him. Having started in South Africa, the idea that the game could take him all over the continent was far-fetched, given the timing he picked up the game. Since turning pro, he has won a second career major title last year with Liberia’s Mighty Barrolle, and this year with his current club, Uganda’s Namuwongo Blazers, he is on the verge of securing another major career title.

During his interview with The Big Tip Off, Chukwurah dropped more interesting insights about how he is adapting to his present environment and how South Africa set the stage for him to pursue a basketball career.

A late bloomer

Nigeria-born Chukwurah did not play basketball until he came to South Africa, a country he regards as his home. Already in his late teens, the forward had come to the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) to further his studies, and along with pursuing education, the hoops bug bit.

“South Africa is my home. It (South Africa) made me who I am regarding basketball. I always give props to Mr. Thabang Kgwedi and Mr. Andrew Brown. Coach Brown was the second team coach at VUT. He is the one who gave me the opportunity,” said Chukwurah. “I was always playing football. I started playing basketball when I got to VUT.”

Anthony Chukwurah Namuwongo Blazers — **Anthony Chukwurah and Namuwongo Blazers will compete in the NBL final. Pictures: Namuwong Blazers**

Chukwurah describes himself as a sports aficionado, and taking up basketball was an adjustment process – he also learnt quickly to adapt.

“It was a lot at first. I had an idea of the sport, but I had never played it. All I knew was that you bounced the ball and you shot it,” said Chukwurah. “I am a quick learner. You can put me on a baseball pitch and, given time, I will learn. That is the thing about me and sports.

“So with VUT, I had guidance from Andrew Brown, and the team was also welcoming. So that helped a lot.”

He did carve out a successful university career, winning USSA titles in 2018 and 2022.

Business of going pro

He intimated gratitude to the game and the place it has taken him. “It’s been a blessing. I never thought that bouncing a ball would take me to all these places. It’s been a blessing getting to learn different cultures and languages. So it’s an experience I am grateful for,” said Chukwurah.

While in South Africa, he also played for Basketball National League (BNL) franchises Egoli Magic and the Tshwane Suns, where he won his first league title in 2021. But there was another country that wholly cemented the idea that he could pursue a pro career.

Mozambique, where Chukwurah played for Ferroviário de Nampula, opened his eyes to a more established professional setting.

“In South Africa, I thought ‘there could be something here’. When I got the chance to go to Mozambique, I realised I could actually make a living out of basketball. I understood the logistics and business side of things,” said Chukwurah. “As long as I put in the work to increase my value, I can make a living from the game.

“I have always loved sports. If you give me that, than sitting behind a desk, I’ll take sports anytime.”

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From the looks of things, Chukwurah has made a wise career choice. Apart from playing in Mozambique, his talent has seen him grace his home country, Nigeria, where he played for Hoops & Read. Following the success in Liberia, he and Uganda’s Namuwongo are riding the wave, which could lead to a championship.

Blazing a trail with Namuwongo

The NBL final series against the country’s 10-time champions, City Oilers, has been postponed to a later date (26 October) as Namuwongo are set to compete in the Road to BAL in Tanzania next week (17 October). Chukwurah and the Blazers, who go to the Road to BAL based on their current season’s performances, will take on host club DarCity and Burundi’s Dynamo.

Chukwurah will, together with Namuwongo, share a first, competing in the Road to BAL. At the time of the interview, Chukwurah, who was nursing a left toe injury, spoke in an adamant tone about being part of the continental qualifiers. Saying it was part of his mission during his time in Uganda.

“Definitely, that is the goal. I have not played in the last two games because of an injury. So I have been working hard to get back on time for the finals,” said Chukwurah. “It’s a cutthroat business. It’s a performance-based business. Having said that, I want to go (to the Road to BAL) with the Blazers.”

He expanded more on his appreciation for the Namuwongo’s fans. “It’s beautiful. In the last two games I have sat out, I have seen things from a fan’s perspective. I experienced the atmosphere. Basketball out here is like a religion. We have a whole community supporting us, you see the joy you give to people when we have won. That’s when you feel that this is more than just a sport,” said Chukwurah.

Another interesting aspect of Namuwongo is the significant influence of former City Oilers players. Ivan Muwhezi, James Okello, Tonny Drileba and Jimmy Enabu are seasoned internationals who have played in numerous Road to BAL campaigns. Chukwurah has learnt a lot from rubbing shoulders with them.

“We have a saying in Nigeria, ‘follow who know road’. Follow those who know the way. These are guys who have won the championship. Some of them have done it nine times. So it has been a pleasure learning from them,” said Chukwurah. “I stick close to these guys. I listen to everything they have to say because they possess a lot of knowledge.

“A guy like Tonny Drileba has helped me a lot. He helped me adapt to the game this side.”

Chukwurah has warmed up to Namuwongo and is looking to trailblaze with the 10-year-old club, aiming to make their mark on the African continent.

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Kadiwa aims to end his Bravehearts career on a high

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MADILITSO Kadiwa has been with Bravehearts since the club’s inception. In those early days, pain and struggle were the order of the day as Bravehearts were establishing themselves on the court. As club captain, Kadiwa has led Bravehearts through a time of prosperity. Since 2018, the 38-year-old has won four national championships, turning Bravehearts into giants of the game.

After his long service to the 10-year-old club, which became the first from his country to make the Elite 16 of the Road to BAL last year under his leadership on the court, Kadiwa will hang up his sneakers this season.

Kadiwa expressed contentment with his legacy with Bravehearts and what the club has become.

“It has meant so much. When Bravehearts started, we could only dream about what the club could be. Of course, we wanted it to be big and break boundaries, like competing in international tournaments,” said Kadiwa. “So I am pretty happy with how my basketball career turned out with the Bravehearts… and to now see where the club is.”

Madalitso Kadiwa Bravehearts 2025 — **Madalitso Kadiwa say the BIBC showed where Bravehearts need work. Pictures: The BTO and FIBA Africa**

As a Bravehearts player, three things shaped his career: “Discipline, hard work and passion for the game,” said Kadiwa.

Before Kadiwa calls time on his career, he will lead the club to another Road to BAL mission. After Bravehearts’ historic qualification for the Elite 16 in Kenya last year, eyes will be on them and how they fare this year.

He says the club’s recent Brave Hearts International Challenge (BIBC), where they lost in the final to Zambia’s Munali Suns, was a good measuring stick. There they also faced Zimbabwe’s Basket Hounds and Zambia’s Matero Magic, two teams that will also head to the Road to BAL, which takes place later this month.

“We had the BIBC, and it showed us where we are lacking. Our coaches have also discussed areas that need improvement. We will need a couple of friendlies so that we can come in match fit and improve our chances of going back to the Elite 16,” said Kadiwa.

While the qualification for the Elite 16 was impressive, Kadiwa says they are hungry to go further, and their ultimate goal, while ambitious, is to make the BAL.

“When we made it out (of the preliminary phase in Zimbabwe last year) and qualified for the Elite 16, it painted a clear picture that we can go far,” said Kadiwa. “We can qualify if we prepare well. I am sure everyone is ready and they feel we can take the club to the next level. Not just the Elite 16, but to another level.”

Madalitso Kadiwa Road to BAL 2023 — **Madalitso Kadiwa and Bravehearts want to go all the way in the Road to BAL qualifiers.**

Kadiwa is optimistic about his immediate playing future for the Bravehearts, but he is also preparing for his next move after his playing days.

Coaching is his next stop. During the BIBC tournament, Kadiwa attended a course facilitated by FIBA instructor Ronnie Owino.

“Given what Bravehearts has done for me, I want to give back. I took the opportunity to do a coaching course led by Coach Owino from Kenya. It is a Level One and Two course that focuses on youth development,” said Kadiwa. “Bravehearts have a couple of youth teams, and I want to be involved in those programs.”

Bravehearts club owner and coach Griffin Kalua describes Kadiwa as the heart and soul of the club. “There would not be Bravehearts without Montana. That is what we call him. Montana. He has been a leader on and off the court. He has gone to war for us even when he was injured,” said Kalua.

While Kadiwa has stated his intention to call time on his career, Kalua feels he still has a few more years in him. “He is in his late 30s, but he still suits up and outperforms the young ones. I don’t think he will retire anytime soon,” Kalua said with a light chuckle. “He is another Lebron. I don’t know what will happen the day that he stops wearing the Bravehearts jersey. It will be a sad day for us as we are used to having him on the team.”

Kalua does hope Kadiwa will still be a part of the club when he calls it a day. “I hope he can remain part of the team when he stops playing. We would want him to come and coach the youngsters.”

The curtain is still far from closing on Kadiwa’s glittering and fulfilling career. The hope is that he bows out having led the team to qualification for the BAL. It would be a great exclamation to his undying commitment to Bravehearts.

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