Basketball Feature - The Big Tip Off

Ramabu, Dolphins chase Elite 16 spot in Road to BAL

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ramabu, Dolphins chase Elite 16 spot in Road to BAL Read More »

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

Leave a Comment

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ubisse and Beira look to get on track at Road to BAL Read More »

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

Leave a Comment

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

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

A late bloomer

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Business of going pro

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

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

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

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

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

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Namuwongo Blazers (@namuwongoblazers)

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

Blazing a trail with Namuwongo

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chukwurah, Blazers to follow players who know the Road to BAL Read More »

Kadiwa aims to end his Bravehearts career on a high

1 Comment

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kadiwa aims to end his Bravehearts career on a high Read More »

Odero ready for Road to BAL take off with the Thunder

Leave a Comment

HE is nicknamed Kenya Airways. A moniker he earned for his spectacular high-flying dunks, which have wowed fans at various gyms in the East African nation. His actual name is Albert Odero, and he is part of a group of star players who make up Kenya’s super team, Nairobi City Thunder.

The 28-year-old Odero was nicknamed by his teammate Faheem Juma, who compared his high-flying style on the court to the nation’s air carrier.

While being a skywalker has made Odero popular, he feels there is more to his game. “One of my teammates, Faheem, gave me the name four or five years ago, and it just stuck. I feel like I do more than jump high and dunk on people. It’s a blessing to have the athleticism, and if it entertains people, then I don’t mind putting on a show for the crowd,” said Odero.

Albert Odero and Ken Wachira 2025 — **Ken Wachira and Albert Odero celebrate qualifying for the BAL last year. Pictures: FIBA Africa**

The Thunder fans are certainly loving it! They have seen Odero and the Thunder rocket to the stratosphere after being crowned champions in Kenya’s Basketball League for the second time running. The Thunder outdid themselves once more, ending their spectacular charge to the title with another unbeaten run.

Odero, speaking to The Big Tip Off on Monday, a day after they beat Kenya Ports Authority 3-0 in the finals series, attributed the success to a positive team dynamic.

“It’s consistency. We have guys who work hard, well together and who want what’s best for the team, said Odero. “So in those two years, we have become familiar. It’s a whole lot of things put in a pot, and it’s working,” said Odero.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Khooops (@k_hooops)

Having one unbeaten season is no easy feat, but to do it a second time, while astounding for the Thunder, it would raise questions about the quality of the teams they faced in the domestic league.

Odero, on the other hand, took a different view. “I would not say it was easy. You still have to come in and prove yourself. These teams are not going to let you come in and walk all over them,” said Odero. “It was not easy. We put in the hard work. We know how much investment the owners put into the team, so that is what they expect.”

Winning the league again means another Road to BAL, where they could potentially qualify for the BAL, as was the case last year.

In the Road to BAL stage, the Thunder posted an impressive 8-1 record. In the Elite 16 final phase on home soil, they delivered inspiring performances that made them the first Kenyan team to qualify for the BAL.

Odero says knowing the terrain of the continental qualifiers is an advantage for the Thunder. “We have one year under our belt… So we will be more comfortable. The other teams, too, have been there before, so they will invest. It’s just coming there with a chip on our shoulder. We know it’s not going to be easy, we know what it takes,” said Odero.

Albert Odero Nairobi City Thunder 2025 — **Albert Odero understands this year’s Road to BAL will be more challenging.**

The experience at this year’s BAL was a step in the growth of the Thunder and their players. However, their record, 1-5 in the BAL’s Nile Conference, shows the Thunder are a work in progress.

“It was a good learning experience for the management and the players. This year, if we get the opportunity again we should not repeat the mistakes of last year,” said Odero.

His words carry wisdom from lessons learnt, and confidence in what the future holds. As the Thunder return to the continental realm, there will be turbulence and, at times, smooth sailing. So if the Thunder are to remain in flight on the Road to BAL, it will require Odero and his teammates to maintain level-heads.

Odero ready for Road to BAL take off with the Thunder Read More »

Nemutambwe expects Hounds to bite in the Road to BAL

Leave a Comment

ZIMBABWE’S Basket Hounds have had a fearsome bite in the country’s basketball scene. The man who has kept the Hounds’ teeth continuously razor-sharp and being a cut above the rest is club coach Tawanda Nemutambwe. In October, months after the Hounds won their second national domestic title, they will make another appearance at the Road to BAL.

Looking back at the Hounds’ debut tournament last year, held in the Zimbabwe capital, Harare, Nemutambwe says they were trying to find their feet.

“It was hard because we did not know what we were getting into. Everything, from preparation to scouting, we learnt on the go. Recovery was also hard for us because we did not get a rest day,” said Nemutambwe, whose team finished with a 2-3 record last year. “I think it was the hardest Road to BAL in our region (Zone 6). Going into this year’s tournament, we will do better. Our tactics and scouting will be better.”

Tawanda Nemutambwe 2025 — **Tawanda Nemutambwe will lead Basket Hounds to a second Road to BAL. Pictures: The BTO**

Knowing the demands of African basketball, Nemutambwe, who coached Zimbabwe’s U18 men’s team during the 2024 age-group AfroBasket qualifiers, says players must maintain clean lifestyles. Another aspect he stresses to the players is being physically up to par with their opponents in the Road to BAL.

“We have spoken to them about taking care of their bodies… Not consuming alcohol or taking substances,” said Nemutambwe. “Going to the gym is another thing. It’s something we lack as a country. Our players don’t like to work out.

“With this group of players that has improved. They are putting in the work. It’s something I have been hammering since our first Road to BAL. I feel it has gotten better.”

Sharing his reflections on the domestic season, Nemutambwe says having the same group of players who retained the domestic championship last year was a key ingredient.

“Maintaining the core of our team was important for us. These are the same players who became part of the team when it started,” said Nemutambwe. “We have trained together and formulated a system that we trust and that works for us.”

Nemutambwe’s team recently tested themselves at the Bravehearts International Basketball Challenge in Malawi, where they fell to the host club, Bravehearts, in the semi-finals.

Tawanda Nemutambwe Basket Hounds 2025 — **Tawanda Nemutambwe says conditioning of his players will be key in the Road to BAL.**

He says the tournament was to gauge themselves and where they were since winning the league championship.

“We wanted to see where we were because we had just got back to training. Some of the teams at the tournament (Bravehearts and Matero Magic) are going to compete at the Road to BAL,” said Nemutambwe. “One of the takeaways from that tournament was our conditioning. We must work on that because the games we lost (in the BIBC) had a lot to do with conditioning.

“It’s something we noted. To get the results, we must pay attention to our conditioning.”

Namutambwe has a few weeks to tighten the nuts and bolts within his team. Going far on the Road to BAL requires clubs to be lean, mean and flawless machines. Or in the case of the Hounds, they will need a ferocious bite!

Nemutambwe expects Hounds to bite in the Road to BAL Read More »

Almeida, Al Ali to bring the noise at Intercontinental Cup

Leave a Comment

CAPE Verdean superstar baller Ivan Almeida gave a light chuckle during a telephone interview when he was asked about adding another FIBA competition to his playing rèsumè. The Intercontinental Cup, which commences on Thursday (18-21 September), will be amongst the tournaments he has played in during his illustrious career.

He downplayed the significance of the milestone, intimating that Al Ahli Tripoli, the team he helped qualify for the Basketball Africa League (BAL) last year, and their mission in Singapore, far outweighs his adding another tournament to his playing rèsumè.

“We keep building. For me, it’s another competition. I want to go there and ensure the team is well-represented. It’s not about me having another tournament on my rèsumè. I look at it as an opportunity,” said Almeida. “The team won the BAL, so we are representing Libya and the African continent… Having that opportunity is amazing.

“Whatever we can do to get a good result while we are there, we will do.”

Ivan Almeida Intercontinental Cup 2025 — **Ivan Almeida brings experience to the ranks of Al Ahli. Pictures: FIBA**

Almeida’s time as a basketball player has seen him slip on the Cape Verde jersey on basketball’s great stages – the World Cup and AfroBasket – five times. He has turned out for Portuguese club Benfica in the European Champions League, and lit it up for home club Kriol Star in the Basketball Africa League. The Cape Verdean remarked that he feels right at home with the Libyan giants, and it’s understandable, given the history he’s helped build for the club.

“Joining Al Ahli is good. I know the people here – the management and the players who were there before. I don’t feel like I am coming to something new,” said Almeida, who was speaking from the club’s training camp in Tunisia.

The 37-year-old says he appreciates the club’s new Egyptian coach, Mohamed Elkerdany, making him a part of the club.

“I appreciate the coach for bringing me in for my experience and ability to help the team. The conditions here (in Tunisia) are good. We have been working, and then the next day (Monday), we will leave for Singapore,” said Almeida. “Everything is on the right track, and I hope I can help the team win a lot of games.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Ivan F Almeida (@ifalmeida)

Almeida is among five recruits for the Libyan club, alongside 2025 BAL MVP Jean Jacques Boissy, Makur Maker (from South Sudan), Ismael Romero (Puerto Rico) and Marcos Knight (United States).

Despite being assembled in a short time, Almeida says the core of the squad and the recruits have acclimated to one another.

“We have been practising since the sixth. We played a friendly (on Saturday), which we won. It has been a process of adjustment and getting to know each other. The club has high-level players with international experience,” said Almeida. “I think we can go to the Intercontinental Cup and represent ourselves well. And make some noise.

“The practices have been going great, and the coach has been able to implement his system. There is focus and discipline in our team. We are doing everything the coaching staff are demanding of us.”

He again emphasised experience when asked about the value he and other recruits bring to the team.

“I think it’s about combining the energy of the young guys and the experience of the older guys. A player like Boissy is young and energetic. He can play both ends of the floor. I think that’s what defines us. Nobody takes breaks, we play defence and offence,” said Almeida. “It is one of the building blocks when a coach builds the team. From there, we have to hold each other accountable and take the best decisions for the betterment of the team.”

Ivan Almeida FIBA World Cup 2025 — **Ivan Almeida says he is considering his international future with Cape Verde after appearing in a fifth AfroBasket for the island nation in August.**

The future

With the year far from over and still a lot of basketball to play in Africa, with the Road to BAL and World Cup Qualifiers. Are these tournaments part of Almeida’s plans?

The Road to BAL: I am not certain about the Road to BAL. I have signed with Al Ahli for a month, so after October 6, we will see about the Road to BAL,” said Almeida.

FIBA World Cup Qualifiers: “It’s a big question mark regarding the national team. I think it was my last one. I am not sure… It is a big question mark,” said Almeida.

His international future with his country may be in doubt, but on the club front, Almeida can be expected to play lights out for Al Ahli in Singapore.

Almeida, Al Ali to bring the noise at Intercontinental Cup Read More »

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

Leave a Comment

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.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Forever Ugandan (@foreverugandan)

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.

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

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

Leave a Comment

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.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Intrusive Sports Agency (@intrusivesports)

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.

Craig putting in the work ahead of the big jump to Germany Read More »

Niang thankful for education and the doors it opened for him

Leave a Comment

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.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Thierno Ibrahima Niang (@tniang10)

“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.

Niang thankful for education and the doors it opened for him Read More »