Basketball Feature - The Big Tip Off

Ozabor ready to take giant career leap

JOSHUA Ozabor explains that two years ago, while playing in South Africa’s national club championship, he was naive about how serious the competition was and what it would have meant had the team he played for won the final.

Ozabor, one of the standout players for the Johannesburg Giants in the recently concluded BAL Kalahari Conference, which ended in disappointment, says playing for the haphazardly put-together Tip-Off Sport Vikings at the 2024 national tournament was a wake-up call.

Despite being a hastily arranged outfit, the then Florsheim Ngwenya-coached Vikings made it to the final but lost to MBB, who would earn the ticket to represent South Africa at last year’s BAL. During a telephonic interview with The Big Tip Off, the athletic Ozabor, who was playing NCAA Division I basketball at the time, recalled the lesson he learned two years ago.

“Not to take anything for granted,” said Ozabor, a former Bryant University Bulldogs player. “At that time, I was still at university. I was back for like three or four weeks. I think that was the third game I was playing in that tournament. I did not know what it was for. I was close with Florsh, who asked me to come and play and get some experience. I took that final for granted. I treated it like a normal game, not understanding the ramifications.

“It taught me that no matter where you are playing or who you are playing, you always have to come with that competitive mindset to win.”

Joshua Ozabor BAL Kalahari 2026 — **Joshua Ozabor feels the BAL showed he can get to his spots. Pictures: The BTO**

The attitude adjustment showed last year, and he won. This time, it was with the less-than-a-year-old Giants, who captured the national title and had a dream run in the Road to BAL, which led to automatic qualification for this year’s BAL Season 6. Sadly for Ozabor and Co., their Kalahari Conference debut held in South Africa’s capital, Tshwane, did not go according to script.

A humbling 0-5 record saw the Giants make an early exit. Despite finishing last in the opening leg of the BAL – the Kalahari Conference – Ozabor was one of the team’s shining lights. The 23-year-old statuesque baller averaged 14.8 points, 3 assists, and 4 rebounds during the Kalahari Conference. Ozabor was second in minutes (31.9) for the Giants in the five games he played, and he hit double figures after a quiet seven points in the opening game against Dar City.

Ozabor scored 18 points vs Nairobi City Thunder, 17 points vs RSSB Tigers, 13 points vs Al Ahly Libya and 19 points vs Petro de Luanda. While he held his own in terms of points production, he feels he could have done more to improve the fortunes of the Giants.

“Individually, numbers-wise, I did pretty well,” said Ozabor. “I am my own harshest critic. I feel I could have done better. Especially in that first game, I wish I could have done more offensively and defensively.”

While the Giants’ debut BAL campaign ended disappointingly, Ozabor feels his performances can only propel him forward.

“I am grateful for the opportunity. What I did in the tournament will help progress my career,” said Ozabor. “I definitely could have done better. Especially at the free-throw line. Just overall shooting percentage-wise I could have done better.”

He did feel he was able to get to his spots and make shots. “In terms of the aspects of my game that helped. Definitely my floaters and my finishing at the rim,” said Ozabor. “I thought I did a pretty good job putting the ball in places I know I wouldn’t get blocked.”

While a tournament of this magnitude requires meticulous preparation, sadly, the Giants were found wanting in that department, as competition in South Africa is not on par with leagues in Angola, Rwanda and Libya – countries which are home to the clubs that finished in the top three of the Kalahari Conference.

Joshua Ozabor JHB Giants BAL 2026 — **Joshua Ozabor put up some good numbers at the Kalahari Conference.**

Ozabor pointed to the experience factor and how it may have counted against them at the Kalahari Conference.

“I know for the most part, other than two imports (Jakobi Heady and Caleb Magua) and David Craig, the guys I was playing with, we had been together for a bit. Since last year, October,” said Ozabor. “Obviously, we are a new team. Many of these teams have played together, and as organisations, they have been around for over ten years.

“Individually, players like Nino (Dim) or Vees (Aviwe Mahlong) prepared extremely hard… As hard as they could have. We had been together since February, maybe we could have started earlier, but I think we prepared as hard as we could have for this opportunity.”

Having had the experience of facing off against high-calibre players like Childe Dundao, Nisre Zouzoua and the Jean Jacques Boissy’s of this world, how did he feel he measured up?

“The best play against the best of the best,” said Ozabor. “As a team, we never felt overwhelmed or scared. We didn’t perform to the level we should have, but we never doubted our abilities. It’s basketball at the end of the day, and there has to be a winner and a loser.

“Individually, or if I speak for myself and people like Nino and Aviwe, we feel like we are right up there with all those players. We are definitely younger and less experienced than they are, but when we step on the floor against them, we didn’t feel inadequate. We had trust in our work, our abilities and trust in God.”

Joshua Ozabor JHB Giants — **Joshua Ozabor enjoyed playing in front of his friends and family.**

With the Kalahari Conference being held in Pretoria, Ozabor says he enjoyed playing in front of “friends and family”.

“It was a blessing. Of course, we did not get the results we wanted, but playing in front of my friends and family is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” said Ozabor. “Every time you score a point or make a good play, you look to the side and see people that you know. The atmosphere as well… Seeing the fans there cheering… The overall excitement in the air. It was overwhelming at times and just a blessing to be a part of.”

The BAL season may have ended earlier than expected for Ozabor and the Giants, but his performances on that stage were surely enough to attract potential suitors for his services.

While there isn’t anything concrete yet about his future, Ozabor is taking everything in and hopes he does not have to wait too long to be rewarded for his talents.

“My family and I are still deciding that right now. By God’s grace, I’ll progress in my career. Whatever continent or country that is… We are still processing everything…. Still making decisions about who I want to do that with. By God’s grace, I’ll know soon enough. I am just grateful to Jesus Christ for having had the opportunity, which I had,” said Ozabor.

It is clear Ozabor moves by faith. With his added maturity brought by experience, he will be able to navigate obstacles on and off the court.

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Gonçalves, Gakou and Dundão fuelling Petro’s success

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GERSON Gonçalves, Aboubakar Gakou, and Childe Dundão; three names that have become synonymous with excellence across the Basketball Africa League. Shooting, playmaking, defensive intensity, control, and that unmistakable Angolan flair, but none of this was guaranteed.

In another life, they are a doctor. A chemical engineer. A civil engineer.

Structured paths. Certain futures. Instead, they chose a different kind of pursuit; one that demanded just as much discipline, precision, and intent. Stepping into an institution already rich in history at Petro de Luanda, they have become central to the club’s evolution.

It is within that balance, between legacy and reinvention, that this Petro core has defined itself. And during the recently concluded Kalahari Conference, The Big Tip Off caught up with the group to unpack what sustains their dominance: the spirit, the system, and the shared understanding that continues to set them apart.

A culture that sustains itself

Across Africa, soccer dominates as the continent’s most popular sport, but in Angola, basketball has long held the spotlight. The country has produced a string of stars, cultivated a storied tradition of excellence, and built a reputation for teams and players who consistently compete at the highest levels. You can feel it in packed arenas, neighbourhood courts, and the rhythm of every street game, a pulse that runs through the nation.

To understand Petro is to understand that environment, where basketball is more than a sport; it is a standard, a language, a way of life.

“Basketball is the most important sport in Angola,” Gakou explained. “Young people grow up loving the game.” It is a culture built not only on success, but also on aspiration, visibility, creating opportunities, and excellence, inspiring the next generation.

Every practice, tournament, and street pickup game carries echoes of the players who came before, and the influence of decorated figures is tangible.

Childe Dundao the BAL April 2026 — **Childe Dundão is the on-court brain of the Petro team. Picture: The BTO**

The standard and the target

Sustained success inevitably shifts perception. Petro de Luanda are no longer chasing – they have become the standard.

“Yes, of course,” Gakou said when asked if they are the team to beat. “If other teams want to be great in the BAL, they have to beat Petro first. That’s why we have a target on our backs.”

That awareness doesn’t come with discomfort – it comes with clarity. Petro knows exactly where they stand within the league, and more importantly, what that position demands. Having competed in every BAL season without fail, played more games than any other club, and reached the semi-finals in each of the first five editions, winning the championship once, finishing second twice, claiming bronze, and taking fourth, they are the standard by which others measure themselves.

Pressure, in that sense, is not an exception to their experience; it is part of it. “In basketball, there is always pressure,” Gakou explained. “Every night we step on the court, there is pressure. But we are used to it.”

Rather than resist it, Petro has absorbed pressure into their process. The expectation to win has become routine, and it, in turn, has become their advantage. “Every practice is about being ready for the game,” Gonçalves added. It is this consistency in preparation, rather than moments of brilliance, that has allowed them to maintain their dominance across seasons.

Being the team everyone targets brings constant pressure: intense scrutiny, high expectations, and the need to prove your excellence again every single night. For Petro, that is not a burden; it is part of the standard they set, and one they uphold.

Living the legacy

What makes Petro’s current moment unique is that the past is not separate from the present; it exists alongside it. For this Petro core, that connection is deeply personal. “We grew up watching players like Carlos Morais,” he shared. “That’s what shaped us.”

Morais himself was a key part of Petro de Luanda until the end of the BAL’s fourth season, helping the club secure the championship. Throughout his career, he has achieved success – securing four AfroBasket titles, a FIBA Africa Clubs Champions Cup, and a BAL title; a legacy of excellence that continues to set the standard for the current core.

“I grew up watching those players,” Gakou reflected. “Now we are in the same locker room. I didn’t dream of that.”

Alongside Morais, Olimpio Cipriano, now part of the coaching staff, brings his own decorated legacy, with four AfroBasket medals and five FIBA Africa Clubs Champions Cup titles. Together, they are not just symbols of the past; they are active contributors to the present.

“It means a lot,” Gonçalves shared. “We have a big responsibility to be here and to do great things.”

These standards are not merely remembered; they are actively lived and reinforced each day by those who helped establish them. “That’s why our mentality is tough,” Childe Dundão added.

For this group, legacy is not something to reflect on later; it is something they are actively participating in now, a continuation of a culture that sustains itself and defines what it means to be the best.

Gerson Goncalves BAL 2026 Season 6 — **Gerson Goncalves provides calm during the storm for Petro.**

When winning means more

If the Season 4 BAL title validated Petro’s status, last August’s AfroBasket reshaped their perspective. After 12 long years without a continental crown, Angola reclaimed the AfroBasket title, winning it for the 12th time and cementing its place as the country with the most championships. That 12-year gap made this victory particularly elusive, a reminder that even the most prolific teams face moments of challenge, expectation, and the weight of history.

In a fairytale run, the national team went undefeated at home, playing in front of packed arenas every night. The roar of 12,000 fans made it feel like every opponent was facing the full weight of the nation, not just the 12 players on the court. The energy, the expectation, and the pride intertwined, creating a stage that elevated every play, every defensive stop, every fast break.

“For our generation, we hadn’t won anything with the national team,” Gonçalves explained. “So it meant a lot, for us and for the whole country.”

The difference was not just in the result, but in the context in which it occurred. Playing at home transformed the experience into something collective, a shared triumph that extended far beyond the players themselves. It was about connection, between teammates, fans, and the nation.

“We saw the people supporting us,” he said. “At a time when the country wasn’t doing so well, we were able to give them joy. To make them believe.”

That moment reframed what winning meant. It shifted from a personal or team achievement to something deeper: a responsibility to inspire, to lift spirits, and to leave a mark beyond the court. It was a reminder that basketball, at its best, is not just about trophies – it can also lift a nation’s morale.

And when they returned to Petro, they carried that shift with them. “We came back with the same energy, the same focus,” he said. “To do the same thing.”

Growth in parallel

For Childe Dundão, the evolution of Petro de Luanda mirrors his own. “When I was young, I was just trying to play,” he shared. “But when I grew up, my goals changed. I started to take the game more seriously, to become a better professional.”

His path wasn’t guided by early certainty, but shaped through a gradual process of realisation. “I don’t think it’s what I imagined,” he admitted when asked about whether he had thought he would become AfroBasket MVP and now lead as captain. “But I’ve grown into it.”

Standing at 5 ft 6, Dundão’s success has not always been a given; it has been built through repetition, consistency, and an environment that demands progression without forcing it. That growth is now evident in his production.

During the Kalahari Conference this season, he averaged a team-high 18.8 points per game, along with five assists and 2 steals, a significant leap from Season 5, where he averaged 6 points, 4.8 assists, and 1.2 steals per game.

Time, continuity, and simplicity

The nature of the BAL means that compressed conference windows leave little room for adjustment, and a byproduct of this is that time and chemistry become currency, and few teams possess both quite like Petro does.

“We’ve been together for more than six years,” Gonçalves shared. “That chemistry is the key.”

In a league where roster turnover is common and continuity rare, that stability has become their greatest asset. For Petro, chemistry is not an abstract concept that they have ever had to scramble to build, and it has been evident in their on-court decision-making, spacing, and trust.

“We know where to find each other,” he explained. “We know everyone’s spots, I know that Abou will be in the corner. Everything is already understood.”

That understanding removes hesitation. It allows Petro’s players to play instinctively, to move without overthinking, and to trust without second-guessing. It also explains why Petro can translate domestic success into continental performance, a challenge which can be a stumbling block for many teams.

And yet, despite everything they have achieved, there is no sense of reinvention. “Not much has changed,” Gakou reflected. “The base is still here, and we know that if we defend well, we will win,” he said.

This philosophy strips the game back to its essentials, removing complexity in favour of execution. And in that simplicity lies their strength.

Aboubakar Gakou Petro BAL 2026 — **Aboubabakar Gakou is a two-way threat for Petro de Luanda.**

What they leave behind

For all the systems, structure, and success, the question of legacy remains central. What has Petro de Luanda truly built? Internally, the answer has always been clear.

“It’s the spirit of the team. We are very united, and we play as a team. That’s our identity,” shared Gonçalves. “We don’t play to separate; we play together. Everyone plays for each other.” From the outside, Petro’s dominance appears to be a result of consistency. However, from within, it is something far more deliberate, something constructed with patience.

When asked how they wanted the Petro group to be remembered, the answer came without hesitation: “The most consistent team in the BAL,” shared Dundão with conviction, while Gakou added, “The best team of all time.”

It is an ambitious statement, but it is not an empty one. For Petro, this has never been solely about winning in the moment. It has always been about building something that lasts.

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Sky is the limit for Zouzoua and DarCity

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THE Kalahari Conference has highlighted the BAL’s depth of talent across every position. However, based on the opening stretch of games, Nisre Zouzoua has already made a strong case to be recognised among the standout performers of the opening leg.

The Ivorian guard, now in his second BAL campaign with Dar City, has played a central role in the East African side’s early success. Notably, he stands out as the only player on the roster with prior BAL experience, a distinction that has quietly shaped both his influence and responsibility within the group.

Adding to Zouzoua’s experience is a DarCity coaching staff with a proven track record at the highest level of the competition. Head coach Pabi Gueye, the 2023 BAL Coach of the Year, previously led AS Douanes to the finals, while assistant coach Nabil Kabalan was part of the staff that guided Al Ahli Tripoli to the Season 5 title.

Zouzoua’s journey with Dar City, however, began before the main stage. After featuring for FUS Rabat last season, he joined the club ahead of the Road to BAL qualifiers. Although Dar City fell short in the semi-finals, a wildcard would guarantee their entry to the continental showpiece. While much of the local core remained intact, Zouzoua emerged as the only import to carry that journey through, from qualification to this season’s BAL. It’s a decision that would come to define both his role and his connection to the team.

Finishing What They Started

For Zouzoua, returning was not a foregone conclusion. After a campaign that would end short of qualification, there were different paths he could have taken following his first experience in the Basketball Africa League. Instead, he chose continuity, committing himself to a Dar City side still in the early stages of its journey, and one that had only just begun to show what it could become.

“When I first got there, I didn’t really know what to expect,” he shared. “But honestly, just developing the bond that I got with the guys that were there, the coaching staff and the president, I felt like I just wanted to finish what we started.”

Nisre Zouzoua BAL 2026 Season 6 March — **Nisre Zouzoua has been impressive for DarCity at the Kalahari Conference. Pictures: The BTO**

At just three years of existence, the East African club is still defining its identity. For Zouzoua, that presented something more compelling than certainty: the opportunity to be part of a story in progress. That decision reflects the belief in the project and a desire to be part of something larger than a single season.

“Just a chance to honestly do something for the first time in that country, to help them qualify for the BAL would be something special to me,” he added. “To be a part of history.”

Responsibility and Trust

Being the only returning import has naturally expanded his role within the group. Beyond his production, he has taken on the responsibility of anchoring a group still finding its rhythm, serving as a point of connection between new imports, the local core, and the realities of the Basketball Africa League.

That role is not only about experience, it is also about translation: of expectations, of style, and of the demands that come with competing at this level.

“I’ve had to take on more responsibility,” he explained. “But my teammates encouraged me, my coaches encouraged me, it’s honestly just been fun being able to help the other imports and give them expectations of what it’s going to be like.”

In many ways, his relationship with head coach Pabi Gueye reinforces that responsibility, giving structure to his role while still allowing room for expression.

“He’s hard on me. He holds me accountable,” Zouzoua said. “But he also gives me the freedom to be me on the basketball court.”

It is within that balance, accountability on one end and trust on the other, that Zouzoua has found clarity. Clarity in how he plays, in how he leads, understanding when to assert himself and when to operate within the flow of the team.

Chemistry by Design

On the court, that sense of connection and trust has translated into production, most notably in Zouzoua’s partnership with David Benoit. In a short space of time, the two have developed a rhythm that feels both natural and deliberate, with an ability to shift responsibility depending on the moment.

In the opening game, Benoit’s all-around performance, 27 points, 9 assists, and 5 steals, complemented Zouzoua’s 35-point display, balancing creation and scoring. That dynamic shifted in the next outing, with Benoit taking on a heavier scoring load (39 points), as Zouzoua adjusted, contributing 20 points and five rebounds and helping with the playmaking duties. Even in their first loss, that structure remained evident, despite Zouzoua’s rhythm being disrupted by early foul trouble.

For Zouzoua, that balance is not accidental. It is rooted in a mindset that prioritises decision-making over individual output and ensuring that he doesn’t get too high or too low.

“I’m just trying to make the right play on each possession,” he said. “I try not to get overly high in those moments, just take everything possession by possession.”

When asked about nearing a single-game scoring record, he paused and laughed at the idea of chasing it.

“I figured it out with like four minutes left but I didn’t want to start forcing it,” he added. “If it’s supposed to happen, it’ll happen.”

Nisre Zouzoua BAL Season 5 2025 — **Nisre Zouzoua played for FUS Rabat in his first BAL in 2025.**

A Culture That Travels

Beyond tactics and rotations, Dar City’s identity has been shaped by its culture, one that extends beyond the players on the floor and into the way the group carries itself as a collective. In a league like the Basketball Africa League, playing in a city like Pretoria, crowd support is rarely guaranteed, especially against the home team. Yet, in those moments, Dar City has managed to create something of a home away from home.

“It means everything to us,” Zouzoua said. “That just goes to show the type of culture we have, the family culture that they’ve built.”

Teammates not on the 12-man roster still travelled, still showed up, still invested in the outcome, reinforcing a sense of unity that has become central to the team’s identity. Even in an away environment, that presence carries weight.

“In a game versus Johannesburg, they have the home court advantage, but to look back and see people behind our bench rooting for us, it means a lot.”

Lessons and Margins

This culture is more than just a feel-good story to Zouzoua. It is the foundation for sustained success in a league as competitive as the Basketball Africa League. Having previously played for FUS Rabat, he knows how fine the margins can be.

“I really admired how those guys played together. There wasn’t a team full of huge egos,” he reflected. “Just learning to play together, be together.”

That lesson has carried into this Dar City group, shaping how he and the team approach each game.

“I feel like the teams that stay together, those are the teams that advance,” Zouzoua said. “Basketball is a game of runs, and with so many games in a short time, that’s a lot of runs.” Off-court preparation is equally critical. With a strong start behind them and the playoffs within arm’s reach, the focus remains internal.

“I believe we’re capable of achieving anything,” he said. “As long as we take everything one game at a time, the sky’s the limit.”

For Zouzoua and Dar City, the story is still unfolding. However, if the early signs are anything to go by, the conversations about them are no longer just about potential. They instead shift to a team, and a player, intent on finishing what they started, united by a culture that makes every teammate, every supporter, and every possession count.

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Mpoyo, Tigers set on keeping BAL trophy in Rwanda

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THE last time Axel Mpoyo stepped onto the floor at SunBet Arena in Pretoria, South Africa, he delivered one of the defining performances of Season 5 of the BAL; an electric 8-for-9 shooting display from beyond the arc to secure APR BBC and Rwanda’s first-ever BAL podium finish.

It was a masterclass that had Tracy McGrady on his feet on the sidelines, as the arena buzzed with an energy that felt far bigger than a third-place game. For a moment, it felt as though Rwanda had won it all.

But beyond the spectacle, it signalled something deeper: a nation beginning to understand how to compete, and succeed, on this stage.

In an interview with The Big Tip Off, Mpoyo shared that his recent performance was more than just about the numbers. He said, “That game was one where I found a great rhythm, and everything was going in. I have to thank my teammates for getting me the ball in the right spots.”

He added, “It meant a lot for Rwanda. We showed that we can play at a high level. It gave our fans hope that we can make an impact in this tournament.”

This moment set the stage for a season in which APR BBC could get closer to the number one spot, building on last year’s progress and proving that Rwanda can compete at the top level.

A Season Built for One Goal

Coming into the new season, APR BBC appeared to be a team with unfinished business. Fresh off a Rwandan league title, the organisation made significant signings, moves that pointed clearly toward one ambition: to win the Basketball Africa League and bring the trophy home to Kigali. But just weeks before that vision could materialise, everything changed. APR BBC withdrew from the competition.

Axel Mpoyo BAL Season 5 2025 — **Axel Mpoyo delivered a shooting exhibition in last year’s BAL third-place game. Pictures: The BTO**

In its place came the RSSB Tigers; a new identity, but with familiar faces. Head coach James Maye transitioned into the Tigers’ setup, alongside a core of APR players, including Mpoyo. The sudden shift raised questions. About continuity. About preparation. And disrupted momentum. For Mpoyo, the experience was as abrupt as it was challenging. “It wasn’t easy, it caught me off guard, but it was out of our control,” said Mpoyo. Yet, within that uncertainty, there was clarity.

“In this sport and in life, things happen. You’ve got to be ready to adjust and stay ready,” he intimated.

Representing Rwanda

When the opportunity arose to remain in the Basketball Africa League through the RSSB Tigers, the decision for Axel Mpoyo and several of his former teammates was rooted in something deeper than circumstance.

“First and foremost, representing Rwanda was a big part of our decision, and getting the chance to play in the BAL… We don’t take that for granted.”

It speaks to a broader sense of purpose, one that extends beyond club allegiances. For APR’s core, this served as a way for Rwanda to preserve continuity, identity and ambition, which is crucial as the BAL continues to grow exponentially and pivots towards establishing franchises.

“This league is going to be one of the best in the world.” And Rwanda is intent on growing with it.

Shared Foundations, Aligned Vision

Despite the team change, much of APR’s influence remains embedded within the Tigers. The carryover is not just in personnel, but in mindset. “We just bring that championship mentality, that intensity, that togetherness,” said Mpoyo.

That foundation, built through APR’s run to a podium finish last season, has helped accelerate RSSB’s adjustment to the BAL stage. It has also shaped how the group approaches pressure, preparation, and expectations.

Equally important has been the blend of leadership on the sidelines. Former APR head coach James Maye has joined forces with RSSB’s Henry Mwinuka, creating a dual-coaching dynamic that has, so far, delivered balance rather than friction.

“They complement each other well; they both understand the game at a high level and can relate to players,” he says. It’s a partnership that mirrors the team itself, with different backgrounds and a shared vision.

Axel Mpoyo at the BAL 2026 Season 6 — **Axel Mpoyo has given the Tigers quality minutes coming off the bench.**

Chemistry Under Pressure Silencing Doubt

Perhaps the most impressive aspect of the RSSB Tigers’ start is how they quickly fused and find themselves 2-0 in the Kalahari Conference. With limited preparation time, their cohesion has had less to do with structure and focused more on shared understanding. “The chemistry is growing every day. We didn’t have a lot of time, but we’re all on the same page,” said Mpoyo.

In a short time, the team has established an identity rooted in trust, resilience, and accountability. “We’ve got each other’s backs, there’s no pressure. We’re going to make mistakes, but we pick each other up.”

That internal clarity has created freedom on the court and an environment where players are encouraged to play instinctively and without hesitation.

“When everybody can be themselves and play freely, it helps the team go further.”

And that freedom has translated directly into performance, which was evident in the statement win over Petro de Luanda, where the Tigers battled until the final moments to secure an 82–78 victory, an indicator of both their resilience and collective belief. If there were any lingering doubts about Rwanda’s presence in Season 6, RSSB’s opening games have answered them emphatically with two wins, built on cohesion and collective execution, from a team that looks far more settled than its circumstances would suggest.

Adaptability as Identity

For Mpoyo, the approach to the season is measured, his goals simple and grounded. “I’m just taking it game by game and trying to be as consistent as I can,” he said. “Everybody has the same goal: to keep the trophy in Kigali.”

It’s a goal tied to something bigger than basketball, a sense of pride that runs deeper than the court. “It’s been a blessing to represent Rwanda, and I don’t take it for granted.” Those early performances have only reinforced the belief within the group. “It felt really good and showed us what we can do if we play together,” reflected Mpoyo. “It gave us confidence. We know we have a lot more work to do, but we have the potential to make a run.”

Through the highs of last season and the uncertainty of this one, Mpoyo has discovered something fundamental, not just about the game, but about himself: “I’ve learned that I can adjust to multiple situations.”

In a tournament defined by change, that adaptability has become both his and the team’s defining identity.

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Lights, camera… It’s Dim time

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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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