Basketball Feature

Akello and Uganda to leave it all on the floor at the AfroBasket

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TWO years ago in Rwanda, Uganda’s rising Gazelles stunned the basketball world with a historic, unforgettable, and hard-fought victory over the fierce and highly regarded Senegalese team at the Women’s AfroBasket. Many would have opined that the group stage victory was a fluke, that the Lionesses had an off day, and the result would not repeat itself.

For Hope Akello and her teammates, the thoughts of the majority would not have mattered then as they backed themselves in that win over the 11-time champions.

This year at the same stage, in the lush green setting of Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, Akello and the Gazelles wrote an even better script for themselves. They shook out of the tight squeeze and claws of the Lionesses to win 73-70 in overtime at Palais des Sports de Treicheville, which guaranteed Uganda avoided the playoffs this time around and leapt straight to the quarter-finals.

Uganda, victors over Guinea in their opening game, achieved another first as they topped the log for the first time in their history. Akello, who was part of the Uganda team that triumphed over Senegal in Rwanda, intimated that the win this year over the same opposition was sweeter because they skipped the hurdle of the playoffs.

“We feel great because we played our hearts out. We topped the group and qualified for the quarter-finals,” said Akello, who scored 15 points and crashed six boards in the Monday afternoon win. Unlike two years ago, when we finished second in the group, our results have improved, and we are first in the group. We came to compete and leave everything on the floor.”

Akello AfroBasket
Hope Akello and the Gazelles have brought smiles to Uganda’s hoop fans. Picture: FIBA Africa.

What else is different about this year’s Uganda team, and how motivated are they to go even further than in 2021?

“Our objectives are higher with each tournament. We are taking one game at a time. We are also playing till the final whistle,” said Akello.

She continued: “We have been putting in the work. Everyone who steps on the court or comes from the bench gives their best. We want to make our country proud.”

While Uganda has improved as a team, Akello has also upped her production (eight points and seven rebounds) from their last encounter against Senegal. Akello also played almost double the minutes that she had against the Lionesses in the equally gruelling encounter.

She was happy with her performance, especially against the most decorated country in African women’s basketball. She also welcomed the day off on Wednesday after the battle against the West Africans.

“The game was physical. However, we have a rest day to recover. We have a team of doctors and physios who will get us ready for our next game. I am happy about my performance, because Senegal is a good team. They have won several AfroBasket trophies,” said Akello.

 

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Her teammates, Jane Asinde, who posted a double-double (18 points and 10 rebounds), and Paige Robinson, who put up 19 points, five rebounds, and three assists, both put in a 40-minute shift in the final group game. While the trio were the top performers, Akello says each player is aware of their job on the team.

⁠”I like the fact that everyone is doing their job. From starting five to bench to technical team. So, I really want to appreciate everyone for that,” said Akello.

While the win over Senegal two years ago showed that Uganda were becoming a competitive nation, winning the Zone VI AfroBasket qualifiers in Cairo, Egypt, in February has potentially set the tone for them to go further this year. Akello, on the other hand, believes the success in the Zone IV qualifiers enhanced their self-belief.

“⁠Winning the AfroBasket qualifiers was great for us. It was a head start to start to believe in ourselves and work on our weaknesses,” said the power forward.

The Gazelles are strutting with an extra spring in their step. They will need that extra bounce in the quarter-final clash on Thursday against fellow East Africans, South Sudan, who will have grown in confidence after beating Egypt in the playoffs on Wednesday.

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Craig putting in the work ahead of the big jump to Germany

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DAVID Craig has enjoyed his time in South Africa, and being temporarily out of the bright lights of competitive basketball, but he has not rested on his laurels. During this off-season, Craig, a first-time free agent, has put in the hard yards, living up to the adage often used in basketball that says, “If you stay ready, then you don’t have to get ready.”

Even with a career-defining move overseas signed and sealed, Craig ploughs on and quietly fine-tunes his game as his new German club awaits his arrival.

The 7ft2 (2.18m) Craig, who would be hard to miss in a crowded room, was going through his paces last Friday in the humble settings of the Mandeville Sports Complex. Settings which are a far cry from the spotlight and aesthetics of the BAL and NCAA basketball. Training with former Made By Basketball (MBB) teammate Nino Dim, they perfect their shooting form with baseline drills inside and outside the arc.

Craig also focused on his post-up game, working with his back to the basket and practising a series of hook shots. He and Dim then wrapped up with a scrimmage session before heading into Craig’s interview with The Big Tip Off. Twenty-two-year-old Craig spoke with great excitement about joining German third-tier club TSV Nuestadt Temps Shooters. The centre, who started his college career with Mercer, is seemingly content with closing that chapter of his life. At the same time, he felt his stint with MBB at the BAL prepared him for the professional ranks.

“I couldn’t be happier. It was the right time for me. I felt I had got everything I could from the Division I level. At this point, this is the right move for my career,” said Craig, who last played for NCAA Division I college Tennessee Tech. “After playing at the BAL level, I felt I could get a bit more out of my career by making the jump to the pros.

“There was a lot of dialogue between me and my agent. Ultimately, we agreed that Europe would be the right place for me to continue developing my game and play at a high level.”

David Craig working out
David Craig says playing in the BAL opened his eyes to a bigger basketball world. Pictures: The BTO

Craig says he has already had discussions with Temps Shooter coach Allen Ray about how he fits into the team’s plans. “I looked forward to working with the coach over there. I have had several discussions with him. It’s been positive. He is big on meeting players at their point and being able to help them grow their game,” said Craig. “From the discussion we had and learning about the club, I feel I will be a good fit.

“I also have a lot I can learn from the older players. I look forward to this experience and how it will help to evolve my game.”

He went on to elaborate on his experience with MBB at the Nile Conference of the BAL. He says rubbing shoulders with some of the wise heads in the team was humbling for him.

“It was one of the biggest blessings to have happened in my life… Being able to represent South Africa while also achieving a lifelong dream of playing professional basketball… Playing with some of the people who laid the ground for up-and-coming South African players like me. Guys like Neo Mothiba and Lebesa Selepe… Getting a wholesome and genuine experience of them and being in Kigali. Those moments I will remember for the rest of my life,” said Craig. “Just like the guys I mentioned, I hope to be an inspiration for the coming generation… Continue to pave the way and bring back expertise and information for kids who want to pursue basketball at any level in the future.

“It (the BAL) showed me how big the possibilities can be, especially from a professional perspective.”

He says another thing the BAL did for him was to improve his temperament. Craig recalled starting in the most-watched game in the BAL (MBB vs APR), which had 168000 views on YouTube according to FIBA Africa.

“One thing the BAL taught me is to always embrace the big moments, like playing in the second game against APR, where I got to start. It was the most-viewed BAL game, and what it did for my career. There is no telling how many of those I could have in Germany. So you have to grab every big opportunity with both hands because you don’t know when you will get the next one,” said Craig. “I never thought Germany would happen. There was just the BAL, and we had to figure out the next move.

“The other thing I learnt was to stay professional and consistent regardless of what happens. You can’t let results dictate your work. You must show up every single day and maintain consistency. Don’t be results-oriented. It’s better to embrace the process.”

Each passing day means Craig is coming closer and closer to the cut-throat world of professional basketball. As he prepares himself for a career leap, he speaks with fondness about being home.

David Craig Woring out
David Craig has a new appreciation for South Africa and the support system available to him.

“Having this time does so much more than it seems on the surface. Firstly, South Africa is a very special place. It takes you leaving here to understand that – being around people who appreciate and understand you. People who respect your journey. It does more for you as a person than you can imagine,” said Craig. “The pressure now is for me to rest and improve… Get ready for Germany.

“There are a lot of people who will be watching me… As they have been, and that will never change. Right now, not having the pressure of performing in this very moment is relieving because being in that spotlight can sometimes be a lot to carry.”

Craig continued: “I think anybody coming up and wanting to make a career out of basketball needs to know that because it does take a mental toll… More so than it would physically.”

These are wise words from the big man, given that he is well-versed in high-level basketball, they carry weight. As he enters this next phase of his career, those words can hopefully guide him in navigating what awaits him in Germany.

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Niang thankful for education and the doors it opened for him

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THIERNO Ibrahima Niang divulged that in his youth, he did not take basketball seriously until a life-changing situation altered his attitude. It led to an opportunity, and along the way, it presented some significant life lessons for him. While fortunate to have pursued a basketball career, he came to terms with the fragility of his body and how that could have stood in the way of his dreams.

Niang, currently on the books of ASC Ville de Dakar, had to deal with injury as a player for the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. It was a sobering moment in his life, which made him understand the value of education. But it was not the first place where that wisdom was imparted to him – that honour goes to the Seed Academy.

The Seed Academy, founded by the BAL president Amadou Gallo Fall, has former NBA players Gorgui Dieng, Saer Sene and this year’s BAL MVP Jean Jacques Boissy as some of its alumni. The former Senegal international says it (Seed Academy) offered him a broader perspective on life, which saw him go from an aimless juvenile to being moulded and shaped into an ambitious young man.

“If you ask me, education saved my life. It was at the Seed Academy where I understood how important it was,” said Niang about the program located in Thies, Senegal. “When they were recruiting me over there, I was not focused on school. I did not like school. Once I realised that basketball is something I loved and wanted to succeed in, I went back to school.

“They really made me understand that education is the thing in life. Basketball, you can play it for 10 to 20 years if you are lucky. But could you get injured… Tear an ACL or something else… Basketball is not safe – you need something to fall back on. And that thing is education. I feel it’s more important than basketball.”

Thierno Ibrahim Niang AS Ville de Dakar
Thierno Ibrahima Niang wants the team to give improved performances at next year’s BAL. Pictures: Getty Images and Supplied

The 35-year-old Niang, who graduated with a degree in information studies, reflected on the stress fracture in his lower back, which he feels somewhat diminished a more promising career. At the time, Niang revealed to the media that he thought it (the injury) would cut short his career, but it cemented his notion of athletes obtaining education.

“It was a scary season for me. It was my second season in college. I think the injury stifled my career a bit. Maybe if that didn’t happen, I’d be telling a different story,” said Niang. “What I can say is that the biggest takeaway I got from it is school. Sports are sometimes tricky. You will never know when it’s your last day on the court.

“What saved me was school. I had a chance to complete my degrees. Regarding the injury, I managed to fight back and have a career, it’s not how imagined it, but I am cool about it.”

Niang, who played in the 2014 FIBA Basketball World Cup for the Lions of Teranga, has gone on to enjoy some success in the pro ranks in Spain, winning a LEB Oro (second division) title with Gipuzkoa in 2017. The guard also has a decent trophy haul in his home country, Senegal, where he has played since 2018.

He has turned out for Dakar Université Club Basketball, AS Douanes, Jean d’Arc and his current team, AS Ville de Dakar, whose men’s team is 10 years old. He feels the standard of club basketball has improved since his return.

 

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“It’s been great. If I compare this year to the year I started, the level is not as good as it is now. These kids are willing to return after studying in the United States. You have to give credit to the BAL,” said Niang, a four-time Senegal National 1 Masculine (NM1) winner. “We all wanted to play at a high level in places like the United States and Europe. I feel it (the BAL) has changed things in Africa. It has helped to lift the domestic leagues on the continent because every club wants to be part of it.

“The BAL took things to another level these last five years. It can only go up from where it is now.”

After winning the Senegal championship with AS Ville de Dakar, Niang will be heading back to the BAL next year. While Niang enjoyed his second BAL, he hopes next year’s campaign will be far better than their debut between April and May. The West African club, unfortunately, fell in the Sahara Conference stage on home soil.

“It was a great experience. This was my second one – I played in season two. It was a great season for my team, which is 10 years old,” said Niang, who played in the 2022 edition of the BAL with DUC. “Representing Senegal at the tournament was incredible, seeing the fans and all the behind-the-scenes stuff was just amazing. I’m glad we will have the opportunity to make it happen again.

“Next year, we want to have a better season, so we have to learn lessons from this past BAL experience.”

Thierno Ibrahima Niang and AS Ville de Dakar will compete for two more domestic titles.

With the domestic league done and dusted, the Dakar-based club captured another trophy, the Coupe de Meir (Mayor’s Cup) trophy (after beating Guediawaye on Sunday), and they are gunning for the Senegal Cup. Niang spoke with confidence ahead of the Coupe de Meir final about wanting to win both championships.

“We feel great. We have achieved our main goal – to win the championship and return to the BAL. There is still more to play for. We are confident and want to end the season on a good note,” concluded Niang.

Niang has found his feet at home. He has embraced the challenge of playing in Senegal, and so far, he has made a success of it. His presence and journey will inspire many harbouring a desire to follow in his footsteps, and who better to impart the wisdom than Niang himself.  

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Bravehearts breathe life into the soul of Malawi basketball

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BRAVEHEARTS Basketball Club has become the epitome of success in basketball in Malawi. With every domestic title hoisted, the ten-year-old club’s status has been elevated in the hearts and minds of fans at its Lilongwe home base and possibly across the Southern African nation. Despite a lack of investment in basketball, the club has risen to become the face of the game, and the architect of that success is none other than Griffin Kalua.

Kalua wears a couple of hats inside and outside of basketball. He is a businessman as well as the founder and coach of Bravehearts. Last month (June), he led the men’s and women’s teams to four and five championships.

Before delving into the club’s recent success in both the men’s and women’s championships, he offered insights into building Brave Hearts in a climate that is not wholly supportive of basketball.

Kalua, who owns an import and export company, highlighted that basketball in Malawi receives little to no funding, so he has had to run Brave Hearts from his pocket.

“One of the reporters asked me why basketball does not get the kind of sponsorships that football and netball do,” said Kalua. “I raised two issues. The corporate world does not believe basketball can give immediate mileage in terms of advertising and branding.

“… Luckily, my companies have been sponsoring Bravehearts, and I have seen the benefits. Both of my companies are the reason we are able to do what we do. People are now also coming on board and want to do business with Bravehearts.”

Brave Hearts Women
Griffin Kalua to move mountains for the Bravehearts women to get a shot at the continental qualifiers. Pictures: FIBA Africa and Supplied

Kalua also emphasised the importance of visionary leadership at all levels in making basketball work, a consistent plea throughout the continent. 

“The other issue is our leaders. They do not have a vision. When you get into leadership positions without a vision, you cannot attract anything,” said Kalua. “So that is why I decided to try to make the club self-sufficient. We have opened a business division at the club. It aims to generate funding for our day-to-day operations and philanthropic work. Another thing we want to do is to build a sports facility, which will also help us generate income. These are the dreams I have for the organisation.”

The success in the national championship led to prize money for both Bravehearts teams, but Kalua says he split the winnings among the men and women. While he commended the league for scaling up, he says the bulk of the money to fund the club still comes from him.

“We don’t get much from winning (the league). Both teams received a total of $2500. It’s not much, but it’s something,” said Kalua. “So when we get prize money, I leave it for the players and team officials. I do spend a lot of additional money every year to run the club.”

On the court, it has been another successful year for Kalua and Bravehearts. In June, the men captured a fourth national title, and the women added their fifth national trophy to the Bravehearts’ cabinet, meaning both teams will enter the continental stage.

After becoming the first club from Malawi to qualify for the Road to BAL Elite 16 last year, Kalua is hoping for another return to that particular stage of the competition. He hopes they can go from qualifying to winning games.

“We did well in the preliminary stage in Zimbabwe, but what was crucial for us was to make it to the Elite 16. What helped us get that far was competing in tournaments in South Africa, Zambia, Tanzania and other parts of Southern Africa,” said Kalua. “We were not sure what to expect at the Elite 16. Getting that far and the exposure will help us prepare better this year.

“The first thing we want to do again is qualify for the Elite 16. Should we get there, we want to try and win one game. Last year in Kenya (at the Elite 16), we did not win a single game. If we get a win, it can be something to build on. It would be reckless to think we can go all the way, so what I am looking for is improvement from last year.”

Kalua also looks forward to the women’s team competing at the AWBL qualifiers after they last appeared in 2018. He hopes to do it via the Zone 6 (Southern Africa) qualifiers, which have not taken place for some time.

“I have a budget for the women. We have kept it for a long time. We thought we would go to the Zone 6 qualifiers last year. They did not happen. And by the time we tried to enter the qualifiers of another zone, it was too late,” said Kalua. “This time around, we are ready. We will go wherever the qualifiers take place. That is a promise.”

Brave Hearts Basketball Club
Bravehearts are set to make another appearance at the Road to BAL.

Being a dominant player in the Malawi basketball scene means the club has a strong culture, one that players can buy into and one that brings championships year after year. Kalua says never giving up is the creed they live by. This is a maxim that saw them qualify for the Elite 16 against difficult odds in Zimbabwe last year.

“These kids don’t give up. You would have seen the difficulty we experienced in Zimbabwe. We only had seven players, but against all odds, we qualified for the Elite 16. That culture has filtered throughout the club,” said Kalua. “We don’t give up easily. It’s one of the characteristics of Malawians. We go through a lot, being one of the poorest countries. It requires us to be resilient in the face of tough circumstances. So you will see the same on the court. These kids don’t give up.

“It’s a definition of a Malawian. We don’t give up easily. We fight for everything.”

Kalua’s passion for basketball has seen the club grow and thrive. He is investing in the long term, aiming for incremental wins, capitalising on Malawi’s resilience ethos, and building the club for sustainability. Brave Hearts are an emerging success story in African basketball. They are an example to follow in growing a basketball club and culture that influences an entire ecosystem. 

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Kavakure carrying a mix of emotions ahead of VBL finals

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ANOTHER epic chapter between two of Burundi’s oldest clubs opens on Saturday when Urunani and Dynamo duel in a seven-game series to decide which of the two celebrated clubs from the capital, Bujumbura, will be crowned VBL champions and take the bragging rights that come with winning.

Urunani, the East African nation’s most titled club, and current defending champions, are looking to maintain the status quo. Dynamo, the older of the two clubs and a losing finalist last year, will hope it has the battery charge required to usurp the title they won two seasons ago.

Adding spice to this storied battle is Bryan Kavakure, a point guard who celebrated many a victory in the blue vest of Urunani but has since swapped it for the green of Dynamo.

Kavakure played for Urunani for four years, but last season he felt his time at the club had come to an end and he needed a change in scenery. The 31-year-old says he had to ponder the decision for a long time about whether to continue with Urunani or join three-time VBL winners Dynamo.

Brian Kavakure Dynamo
Brian Kavakure believes Dynamo has what it takes to reclaim the title. Pictures: Dynamo

He had already gotten a taste of things at Dynamo, having joined them for a short stint during the Road to BAL in 2023, where they became the first club from Burundi to qualify for the BAL. Kavakure says that reuniting with his former Urunani teammates, Guibert Nijimbere and Richard Ndikuriyo, during the Road to BAL and knowing they were still part of the Dynamo set up assured him that leaving was the correct move.

“I found that Dynamo was a well-organised team. Everything went well. Having spent time with Dynamo and having friends like Guibert and Richard made it easy to move on,” said Kavakure.

He also reflected on leaving Urunani. “Spending four years with one team and then joining their rivals was not an easy decision. Seeing how things went last season, I had to make a decision,” said Kavakure. “I spent two weeks deciding whether to stay or go. It was a tough one.”

Journeying to a third successive final, Dynamo finished top of the VBL table in the regular season and coasted to a 3-0 semi-final series win over Les Hippos. Ahead of Game 1 on Saturday, Kavakure naturally has a ton of emotions facing Urunani, a team with which he enjoyed success and developed friendships.

“I have mixed feelings. It will not be easy to play against them. It’s not easy playing against players who know your strengths and weaknesses. It will be a challenge, but the goal is the same,” said Kavakure. “I have moved from one good team to another one, and the goal is to win the trophy with them. The challenge will be trying to beat my friends.”

 

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To reclaim the title and make a second Road to BAL appearance, Dynamo has enlisted the service of Cameroon point guard Etienne Tametong, who has been with the club from the beginning of the season.

Going into the playoffs, Nigerian big man Chingka Garba and American Tyrone Jeffrey were also signed by Dynamo to strengthen the team for the playoffs and finals.

“They have helped us a lot. A player like Etienne has played for so many years and in many countries. Since his arrival, he has made a huge impact. The same goes for Chingka. He is a big man who dominates in the paint,” said Kavakure. “Jeff from the US has led us in the playoffs, and we have a good coach (Julian Chaingot). We have local players who can step up, so the team is good.”

Bryan Kavakure Dynamo
Bryan Kavakure says Dynamo has the personnel to compete in the final.

Having played in this final battle on many occasions, what makes this match special? Kavakure says it’s the fans that make Urunani vs Dynamo a great derby in basketball.

“Our fans and the trash talk amongst themselves makes the rivalry between Dynamo and Urunani what it is. If you have a chance, you should come and experience it. Even the club members have a rivalry among themselves. All those things make it extra special,” said Kavakure.

 

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Gannouni, LeFriki setting a higher bar in the coming season

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CLUB Africain, in late May, flipped the script in Tunisia’s Championnat Pro A championship, winning a fifth title in the Tunis-based club’s history. What made capturing the title sweeter for LeFriki was that it ended rival and finals opponents US Monastir’s six-year hegemony of the Pro A and earned them the prize of debuting at the BAL next year.

There was another element to the tale of Club Africain’s monumental success. Winning the league brought to an end the eight-year league title drought for one of Tunisia’s heralded clubs and its passionate fans. What made the journey of securing the trophy memorable for Club Africain was winning the five-game series, 3-1, in front of their supporters at their home arena, the Cherif Bellamine Gymnasium.

Twenty-eight-year-old small forward Achref Gannouni, a former Monastir player, says the fans provided the spark that lit the path to a decisive Game 4 victory.

“It’s always spectacular to play in front of the home fans. They have been with us from the start of the season right till the end,” said the four-time Pro A champion. “Winning in front of them was very special. The atmosphere they created was phenomenal, so the title is for them. As I said, from the beginning of the season they believed in us. We felt it, especially when we played at home. “

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Achref Gannouni and Michael Dixon celebrate winning the Tunisia Pro A title. Pictures: Club Africain.

Having ended the club’s long wait for the national championship, Gannouni felt ecstatic. “It feels amazing to win titles. I am happy for the club and the fans. What made it more special was that the club had waited for a long time to win. The joy is multiplied!” stated the Tunisian international.

On their way to the title, Club Africain won Game 1 of the series at Monastir’s Mzali Sports Hall. The forward says that the first-game victory against the nine-time league champs was the cushion LeFriki needed ahead of the remaining games.

“It was the key to the title for us. We knew if we won one game out of the two at Monastir’s home court, we would have a great chance of winning the series at our arena, and we were able to acheive that,” said Gannouni.

He also reflected on breaking the dominance of Monastir. For Gannouni, the victory had to do with more than who the opposition was; it was about feeding his and the team’s desire. “As an athlete, I always play to win. Achieving that goal every year is satisfying. It also makes me hungry. And it doesn’t matter which team we face,” he said.

Gannouni looks forward to the prospect of returning to play at the BAL after first experiencing it with Monastir two years ago.

“It meant a lot to us because it’s been part of our goal. We are looking forward to competing in it next year. Our journey doesn’t end at the qualification stage. We will be aiming for more,” proclaimed Gannouni.

 

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It may look like the season was smooth sailing for Gannouni and his teammates, but it was far from it. Players battling injury and the disappointment of losing the Tunisia Cup final to Monastir a week after clinching the league were part of the challenges to an otherwise celebratory season.

“Dealing with injuries was tough for us. Several players struggled with injuries, including me. It did affect the team’s chemistry because you are not playing as often as you would like. Luckily we have a good medical team. They got us ready for an important part of the season,” said Gannouni.

He also spoke about his own experience with injury during the season. “It was a bit tough. I had injuries that kept me out for two months. When I came back, I was stronger and helped my team to have a successful season. I was able to give everything for the team,” said Gannouni.

Part of the reason for Club Africain’s success was the togetherness, and Gannouni says this is the glue that should hold the team together in the coming season.

“Club Africain, this season was a family. We were all eager to win trophies together this year and bring joy to our fans. For the next season, we need to work hard and continue improving day after day to stay at the top,” said the former Rades player.

Gannouni
Achref Gannouni says winning the first game of the finals series in Monastir was crucial for Club Africain.

After the exertions of the past season, he’s now returned to social media. He felt he needed to focus a bit more to help the team be triumphant, and it has paid off.

“Going off social media is always a good thing to do. It helps to clear the mind and block out negativity. I knew that we were strong contenders to win trophies this year, so I needed to focus on the playoffs and the finals,” said Gannouni.

Next season will present a new canvas for Gannouni and Club Africain to write a new script. Having reached a milestone this year, they will prepare to exceed what they have already achieved.

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Angolan legend Muzadi shooting his shots behind the camera lens

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WHEN former Angolan hooper Victor Muzadi speaks about his playing career, intensity and passion fill his eyes. The same intensity and passion appear on his face when he discusses his post-playing profession. Having enjoyed an illustrious professional career, Muzadi’s dunks, layups and blocks caught the eye of many cameras on the continent and the global stage.

Banking on the content game

In a twist of fate, Muzadi, who first worked at a bank after hanging up his sneakers, later found his true calling – getting behind the camera. He has since captured many domestic and international sporting, lifestyle, and corporate events through his content company, Push LDA, based in Angola.

Muzadi was recently at the BAL playoffs and finals in South Africa’s capital, Tshwane, as part of the multitude of content creators covering the continental shindig. Speaking to The Big Tip Off, his voice hoarse after feeling the effects of the South African winter, Muzadi was able to find the words to express his delight at the new and improved continental tournament and how he wished it existed during his playing days.

“I wish this kind of platform was there in our era. It would have been great. People would know how we played, so I am happy that these young players have it now and that they are part of this story of African basketball,” said Muzadi, a two-time FIBA Africa Clubs Champions Cup winner. “It’s really cool to be involved as well and to be part of the emotion and vibe here.”

Victor Muzadi Angola Content
Victor Muzadi says he has been impressed with the five-year-old BAL. Pictures: The BTO and FIBA

Muzadi says that as an athlete, his mind was always on matters related to the court, so he could sit and take in the excitement of being at a sporting event like the Olympics. Now, being behind a camera lens, it has taken on a whole different meaning.

“I have a crazy story. At last year’s Paris Olympics, I was there to shoot content. It was my first Olympics being on the other side, and not as an athlete. It was then that I understood what was going on in the media space because, as an athlete, your mind is on the game. Coaches, stats, videos and then you are back to your room,” said Muzadi, a two-time Olympian with Angola. “You don’t get to enjoy the other stuff to do with the Olympics, like the opening and closing ceremony. This time around, I stayed till the end of the Games. I saw things differently, from when I was an athlete. Today, I am like, ‘Wow they have a life outside of sports’. And I was able to capture that.”

Muzadi maintained his ties to basketball after retirement through 3X3, where the vision of creating content began to unfold. It was also where he realised that he had an eye for photography. It also hit him that being an employer sometimes meant adopting a hands-on approach when running his business.

“I am a 3X3 promoter, which is something I started six or seven years ago. I used to hire one of my friends to shoot for me, but he would deliver the content late. It became a problem to explain the situation to the event sponsor,” said Muzadi. “So I bought my own camera and started shooting content for myself… And everybody was like, ‘You are good at it.’

“I was also a commentator for SuperSport, and I got into audiovisual work while I was working for them. So that also opened my eyes to how content is created.”

It led to Muzadi becoming an ambassador for the photographic equipment company Canon. “When I opened my agency, which does photography, drone photography and video, one of my clients was impressed with the work we do. They told us we capture the soul of people and that they would pitch the idea of me becoming an influencer and ambassador for Canon because they did not have one in Angola,” said Muzadi. “So, I sent some pics I took, and from there, I got validated. This has been a great way for me and my team to tell stories.”

Muzadi the philanthropist

Not only is Muzadi a leader in his company, but he also serves as the general secretary of the Special Olympics in Angola, a challenging role. Helping people who need it the most should be easy, but Muzadi explains that he has had to push barriers.

“It’s tough. You want to do more, but there are limitations. You have to know how to pitch to sponsors for them to be part of the process,” said Muzadi. “The Special Olympics started four years ago in Angola. So it’s brand new. I work with my former teammate, Jean Jacques Conceicao, a Hall of Famer. It’s been a process. We have tried to implement new initiatives, push for legislation, and secure medical support.

“We are trying to show that through sport, people with disabilities can do more than what others think.”

 

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Continuing Angola’s dominance in the AfroBasket and club championships

In his heyday, Muzadi was part of Angola’s team that continued the Southern African nation’s dominance in African basketball. Harking to those glory days, Muzadi, a four-time AfroBasket winner, says the Angolan team of that time and its style of play resembled the celebrated Golden Warriors.

Angola was a star-studded team with names like Joaquim Gomes, Eduardo Mingas, Victor Carvalho, Miguel Lutonda, Olimpio Cipriano, and the up-and-coming Carlos Morais.

“It was a great run with those guys… Winning every AfroBasket during that era. My last AfroBasket was in 2007 in Angola, and I really enjoyed it,” said Muzadi. “I miss those days playing against some great teams. We had some good players like Victor Carvalho. He was Stephen Curry before Stephen Curry came on the scene. He is an assistant at Petro, and he still shoots the ball well, even today. Angola played like the Golden State of a few years ago… Live by the three, die by the three.”

Muzadi says the reason Angola stood head and shoulders above the rest in Africa was because of their preparation. “People don’t understand the volume of training we had. We prepared three to four months ahead of the AfroBasket… Sometimes outside the country. We even came here to South Africa, but the cold was too much for us,” said Muzadi.

Victor Muzadi Angola
Victor Muzadi has played in top-level competition for Angola.

His club career was also illustrious, bringing him 16 Angolan league titles and two continental club trophies. He says being part of any Angolan club, especially when travelling the continent, meant they bore the fury of opposition fans. It was also something that fuelled him and his teammates.

“Those were tough times – I remember when we went to the Central African Republic – as soon as we got to the venue, opposing fans threw things and insulted us, but we loved it,” said Muzadi. “Everybody hated us, but when we won, we received applause. People called us stone-cold assassins. We only celebrated when we got home because when we were away, we focused on the job.”

Muzadi’s playing career is a story of success. He is one of the few players to have stood on a podium with many winners’ medals. He has also maintained a similar level of excellence in his second career, capturing the hearts and minds of sports fans with his content.

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Ngenzahayo, Urunani chase VBL title No18 and BAL dream

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URUNANI BC is a behemoth in Burundi’s basketball scene. They have the most domestic championship titles and attract some of the best talents in the game, ensuring they remain a dominant force at home. Sisi Wenyewe, while successful in Burundi, has seen itself fall short in trying to qualify for the five-year-old BAL. It has been, in some cases, so near yet so far.

One player familiar with the domestic triumphs of Urunani and the disappointment of failing to qualify for the continental showpiece is long-serving shooting guard Malick Ngenzahayo.

The 29-year-old has seen the BAL escape his grasp first with New Star (in 2021) and twice with Urunani (2022 and 2024). He explained his anguish at falling short with Burundi’s most successful club.

“It’s been painful. Knowing you have worked hard and want it badly, but when you get on the court, things don’t go your way. It’s painful,” said Ngenzahayo.

Malick Ngenzahayo believes Urunani can defend the VBL title it won last year with the tools at its disposal. Pictures: FIBA Africa

The guard says this season, he and Urunani are more determined to get over the hump. They aim to become the second team from Burundi to qualify for the BAL. So far, their rivals, Dynamo, hold that feat.

“We are becoming mentally tougher. We have played with players who competed in the BAL. On an individual level, I am also working hard. I want to help the team be successful this year,” said the Ngenzahayo.

With the regular season now complete, Urunani, who lost two games and finished second behind rivals Dynamo, ended with a 22-2 record, losing to Dynamo and Remesha.

Following their defeat to Dynamo in April, Ngezahayo and Urunani went on a whopping 10-game unbeaten run. Part of the winning streak included beating Dynamo (60-52) in May, with the shooting guard leading the team with 11 points, four rebounds, and two assists.

Reflecting on the win against Dynamo, Ngezahayo stated that it set them up for the remaining games and the playoffs.

“It was tough because they beat us (in the first round), so we had to get one back and show we were ready for the playoffs,” said Ngenzahayo.

As Urunani chases title No. 18 in the domestic league, VBL, a strong squad is required. Players like Mamadou Diome (Senegal) and Onyebuchi Prosper (Nigeria), as well as Romis Bujeje, have returned to the team. American back-court players Will Perry and Patrick McGlynn, who played in the BAL’s Sahara Conference for AS Ville Dakar and Kriol Star, will add quality as Urunani begins its title defence later this month.

“These are pieces that will add value to the team. We needed to improve our rebounding and also control the game, so those players will help us do that. We want to win,” emphasised Ngenzahayo.

Moving away from the matters of on-court results, Ngenzahayo related what it means to be a Urunani player. He says the infectious passion of the fans is what drives them through the good and bad games.

“It’s the fans. They are passionate and crazy about the club. They are with us through the tough times. I love that about them,” said Ngenzahayo. “Since I was a kid, the club has helped me with many things. Even in my school days, they helped me a lot.

“Urunani is in my heart. That’s why I play like am possessed whenever I wear the jersey. I give everything I have for them because of what they have done for me.”

Malick Ngenzahayo Urunani
Ngenzahayo loves Urunani because of the fans and what it has done for him. 

Sisi Wenyewe means the world to Ngenzahayo, and he is always prepared to give his all for them. As the VBL playoffs begin in a few days, he will hope Urunani, taking on Remesha on Saturday in the playoffs semi-final series, can defend that domestic title and chase the dream of the BAL again. 

 

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Konaté itches for more success after historic season with JCA

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DURING his illustrious playing career, El Jefe (The Chef) used to cook many an opponent on the basketball courts of Côte d’Ivoire and the rest of the African continent. The result was a plate peppered with domestic trophies and a sprinkling of continental success for the iconic Stéphane Konaté.

It’s been two years since Konaté called time on his remarkable playing career. Since then, he has traded in his playing sneakers for the coach’s clipboard and, in a short space of time, has tasted success as the coach of Juenesse Club d’Abidjan (JCA).

In an interview with The Big Tip Off, Konaté, who had a triumphant season with JCA, says he was always adamant that he wanted to be a coach after his playing career ended. The Ivorian legend expressed his love for sharing knowledge, which pushed him to pursue his coaching certifications in 2016.

“When I announced that I was retiring, I already knew I was going to be a coach. I believe it was written for me. Also, I am a sports teacher, so, it’s been my job. I love it and I love giving. I love transforming players. Making them better. I love this game,” said the former Côte d’Ivoire captain.

Konate, a 2005 FIBA Africa Champion Cup winner and MVP, continued, “While I was playing, I also prepared for life after basketball. I passed my FIBA Level 1 in 2016, and a few years ago got my Level 2.”

Stephane Konate JCA Ligue d'Or
Stèphane Konatè has exceeded expectations with the JCA club. Pictures: JCA

He says the inspiration to take up coaching came from within and was affirmed by coaches who told him he had what it took to call the shots from the bench. Having the latitude to give input convinced him he was making the right choice.

“No one specific person inspired me to want to become a coach. It came quite naturally,” said Konatè. “One of the things I did well was to find solutions on the court and propose them to the coaches. It is something my former coaches became aware of and told me I would make a good coach. So, I took their advice.”

While Konate headed the counsel of his former coaches to pursue the coaching profession, they also offered words of caution.

“Generally, coaches told me to be careful because good players are not necessarily good coaches. The difference with me, I think, is that I’m a teacher. It changes a lot,” said Konatè.

He says his first coaching role with the Ivorian club, Hypersonics, was a confirmation that he is a capable coach, and while his stay was short at the club, he achieved good results.

“They (Hypersonics) were the first team I coached in the Ligue d’Or last year. They are a team of young people, and I proved I could add value to them. At the end of the first phase of the championship, we finished first and played in the playoffs,” said the two-time AfroBasket silver-medallist.”

He took over JCA under not-so-easy circumstances, as he had little time to acclimate to the team. Konatè expressed that he thrives on challenges, and the opportunity to lead an ambitious JCA club, already boasting two titles – the Coupe de Côte d’Ivoire and the Super Cup – was a compelling prospect.

“When JCA offered me the head coach’s job and to compete for the championship, it was a big challenge for me. I thrive on challenges because they push you,” said Konaté.  “I had a month before the start of the championship. So, I did not have the preparation time I would have wanted, but I accepted the challenge. I remember the first game… The pressure was mounting as we approached that first match. Everyone was waiting for me and my team… To see how we would do.

“I remember feeling the nerves in my body. But I trusted the players and they trusted me too. I think things went well, even if I lost that first match in overtime.”

That early loss provided the right jolt, as it led to Konate masterminding JCA’s exceptional season. They marched to a historic double, winning the cup in April and the league this month. While he hopes to build on the recent success in domestic competition, Konate explained that winning the two championships came much earlier than expected.

“Just amazing. It’s wonderful. I didn’t think it would happen so quickly. At the same time, I was working for it. I worked game after game without thinking about the end of the championship. And it happened… Thank God,” said Konate. “It’s clear that we have achieved something great with this club. The hardest part begins now. The hardest thing is now staying on top.”

Stephane Konate JCA Ligue d'Or
Stèphane Konatè knew he always wanted to be a coach.

The league victory means Konaté, who competed in the 2023 Basketball Africa League (BAL) with the ABC Fighters, will now lead JCA on its first-ever Road to BAL campaign – a path he’s well acquainted with from his time with the Fighters.

“The board started to look at local signings first, and then some experienced players to help us qualify. We will have a month and a half to prepare for this competition,” said Konaté. “If we go through the qualifying stages and we manage to qualify for the BAL, it will serve something incredible for the club and especially for me. To come back to the BAL as a head coach would be incredible.

Konatè had a legendary career as a player. Now, as a coach, he is writing a new chapter and already carving out what is turning out to be another amazing story.

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Billy ballin’ out and winning with the Bravehearts

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THE Bravehearts Basketball Club, over time, has become a dominant force in Malawi’s basketball scene, and has slowly started making inroads on the continental scene. While success on the court has been pleasing, the 10-year-old club is more than just about the attainment of trophies – talent development and positively altering the lives of players who have come through the ranks is their hallmark.

One of the gems unearthed by Bravehearts is skillful guard Faad Billy, who made a name for himself during last year’s Road To BAL. Before hitting the continental scene, his talent caught the watchful eye of the club’s owner and coach, Griffin Kalua, many years back at a local tournament, and from that point, Billy’s life and circumstances changed.

“Griffin learnt about my background and that I was not attending school because of finances. Having seen my talent, he picked me (at the tournament) and arranged a scholarship,” said Billy. “I was able to start and finish secondary school. I don’t think I’d have the opportunity to go to school if it were not for Bravehearts.

“My family did not have the means to send me to school… I was able to get a scholarship through the club.”

Faad Billy and Bravehearts
Faad Billy stepped up for Bravehearts in the Road to BAL last year. Pictures: FIBA and the BTO

The 21-year-old intimated that he would be staring down a path of hopelessness had it not been through Kalua’s intervention and the Lilongwe-based club. “It means a lot to me because when I was younger, I encountered obstacles… Things that were happening within my family, to be honest, I did not have hope,” said Billy. “Only those who know my journey can explain how I have benefitted from being a part of this team.”

Having completed secondary school, Billy is keen on furthering his education. He has tried without much luck to apply in South Africa.

“We have tried to apply for scholarships at certain universities, but I haven’t been lucky… Coach has told me to stay locked in and wait for the right opportunity. Maybe it will happen this year,” said Billy.

The door to further education may take a little time to unlock, but last year, the key to unlocking his amazing talent turned at the Road to BAL.

After being unable to register their foreign players in the preliminary stage in Zimbabwe, Billy was one of the young Bravehearts players thrown at the deep end by Kalua. He (Billy) bravely swam against the tide, and one of his stand-out moments was a starring performance of 17 points, nine rebounds, and five assists in a crucial final-game win over Mozambique’s Costa do Sol.

“That was my biggest tournament. I did not expect to put up the big performances. It was the help of our coach, Griffin. He reminded us how much work is required to compete at that stage. We need to take it seriously,” said Billy. “He pushed me, and I pushed myself. I practiced hard despite not knowing what to expect.

“In Zimbabwe… I saw how tough it was, but I was ready. At the Elite 16 (in Kenya), I learnt that you must put in a lot more work because teams want to make it (to the BAL).”

 

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His breakout moment coincided with Bravehearts being the first club from Malawi to qualify for the Elite 16. That was also where Bravehearts’ journey ended. Recalling things, Billy says he did not expect to play many minutes, given that more experienced players would take the court. While the circumstances were not the best, fortune favoured him, and he rode the wave.

“It was disappointing that we could not register players (in Zimbabwe). It was a setback, but Griffin told us we could still do it (qualify for the Elite 16) because we had played together for a long time,” said Billy. “I never thought I would play 40-minute games. My focus was to help out at the guard position and play defence for the team. Things shifted to me scoring and rebounding for the team.”

Billy has since grabbed the bull by the horns, and luckily, the wise heads in the team were there to walk the road with him. He credits the guidance of experienced players like Zambian forward Harrison Banda and guard Ian Limbe for propelling him to the success he is enjoying.

“We have played together for a long time and in small tournaments. Their support has helped me grow. I have a wonderful connection with those guys (Banda and Limbe). And it has allowed me to thrive on the court,” said Billy.

Having tasted top-level international competition, Billy is hungry for more and wants to help Bravehearts clinch their fifth national title. The Lilongwe-based club, recent winners of their 10th regional Central Zonal Basketball League (CEZOBAL), will defend their national championship title in June.

Faad Billy and Bravehearts
2025 has been a successful year for Faad Billy.

CEZOBAL MVP Billy has been instrumental in leading the push for the national championship, enjoying both individual accolades and team success this year. He played a key role in helping the Bravehearts secure victories in Southern African tournaments such as the Ashraaf Loedewyk Tournament in South Africa and the Bridging Sports Foundation Basketball Tournament (in Zambia). He also scooped the MVP award in both tournaments.

“Those tournaments have helped me a lot. They serve to remind me who I am. They are a confidence booster. I believe in myself more,” said Billy. “I am happy with my achievements… There is still a lot of work to do as we have to defend our title. We want to go back to the Road to BAL.

“This year’s championship will be harder because teams have gotten better. Teams have recruited a lot of players because they want to challenge us. We have also gotten better.”

Billy has made the most of the opportunity given to him, and it helps that he is part of a club that has built a culture of success. He stepped up in life and on the court against difficult odds and thrived. The world is his oyster. 

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