Basketball Africa League - The Big Tip Off

Lights, camera… It’s Dim time

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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The evolution of floor general Dundão

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OVER the past two years, you cannot speak about Angolan basketball without mentioning Childe Dundão. During this period, he has become a key figure in the sport, essential to the country’s ongoing success and competitiveness. His leadership and consistent contributions were felt at every level of the game.

At the club level, Dundão has been integral to Petro de Luanda’s achievements in the Basketball Africa League (BAL). His influence was particularly evident during the club’s championship-winning campaign in 2024. His composure, defensive intensity, and game management were crucial throughout the tournament. As the BAL elevates its competitiveness, the focus shifts to whether Dundão can once again lead Petro to the pinnacle of success.

His Development into an Elite Point Guard

Dundão’s career trajectory has been anything but straightforward, highlighting the importance of the current season. Between 2021 and 2024, he established himself as a high-impact two-way guard for Petro, averaging 10-11 points per game. While in the 2021–22 and 2022–23 seasons, he showcased his most effective form, characterised by active defence, confident scoring, and effective management of the team’s offensive flow.

However, the latest season presents a contrast. A decrease in scoring efficiency coincided with an increase in assists, suggesting that Dundão adjusted his role rather than experiencing a decline in effectiveness. Rather than focusing on scoring, he embraced the importance of facilitating for his teammates. In a deep roster such as Petro’s, this shift is a necessity.

Childe Dundao in action at the 2025 BAL — **Childe Dundao has transformed his game over the years. Pictures: The BTO**

Even within a strong team, Dundao plays a crucial connecting role. While Petro can distribute scoring across multiple players, his unique ability to organise the offence, disrupt opponents on defence, and control the tempo is difficult to replace. His impact may not always appear in the box score, but it is essential to the team’s function.

Growth Amidst Instability

Throughout the past three seasons, Dundao’s fluctuating role, from starter to bench player and back again, has likely affected his rhythm. Consistency is crucial for a point guard, as it influences decision-making, confidence, and overall team leadership. This instability can explain why his offensive progression has not followed a steady upward trajectory.

Nevertheless, this variation may also have expanded his skill set. During his time with Angola’s national basketball team, Dundao has embraced a more prominent role.

His performances at AfroBasket and in the World Cup qualifiers highlighted his growing willingness to take on greater responsibility. He emerged as a more assertive scorer, a decisive playmaker, and a player capable of maintaining confidence under offensive pressure.

International Leadership

Dundao played a critical role in guiding Angola to its 12th AfroBasket title, showcasing composed performances against all competitors. His contributions earned him the MVP award, solidifying his status as one of Africa’s premier guards. This strong performance continued during the recent FIBA World Cup 2027 qualifiers at the end of February, where he demonstrated leadership, composure, and versatility.

The difference in his roles is noteworthy. At Petro, he often adapts to a structured system, while with the national team, he is expected to be the core of that system. This duality, functioning as a facilitator at the club level and a primary driver at the international level, has enhanced his basketball IQ and leadership capabilities.

A Decade of Dundao

Dundao’s story is one of longevity and growing within the structures. He first represented the Angolan national team in 2016 at the FIBA U18 AfroBasket, contributing to the team’s run to the championship. Many of his teammates from that tournament now play at the senior level, strengthening Angola’s teamwork and competitive edge. Over a decade, Dundao has evolved from a promising youth player into a seasoned floor general, with an influence that extends well beyond statistical contributions.

Childe Dundao at the 2027 World Cup Qualifiers — **Childe Dundao is a key player for the Angola national team.**

Significance of the Current BAL Season

This season marks a pivotal moment for Dundao, as his dual roles are expected to merge. He enters the BAL equipped with three significant advantages:

Continuous high-level play through the Angolan league
Momentum from national team duty, where he has accepted greater responsibilities
Experience across various roles, enhancing his adaptability and leadership skills

While Dundao may not need to be the leading scorer, he is a reliable decision-maker on the court. If he can bring the assertiveness demonstrated with the national team – striking a balance between aggression and playmaking – he can transform Petro into a cohesive unit capable of winning a championship. This convergence makes this season particularly significant for Dundao and Petro de Luanda.

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Petro de Luanda: A model of consistency in the BAL

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SEASON 6 of the BAL tips off with the Kalahari Conference in Pretoria, South Africa. The Big Tip Off’s new writer, Sandisiwe Msibi, analyses the tournament’s ever-present club, Petro de Luanda.

Angola’s Culture of Dominance: Petro de Luanda Sets the Standard

For decades, excellence has defined Angolan basketball. Their clubs have consistently placed the Southern African nation on the map. Today, at the centre of that tradition is Petro de Luanda, a model of consistency in the BAL. Since the league’s inception in 2021, Petro has always finished in the top four.

They won the title in 2024. They were runners-up in 2022 and 2025. In addition, they finished third in 2021 and fourth in 2023. Beyond the BAL, Os Petroleos have also enjoyed continental success. They won the FIBA Africa Club Champions Cup in 2006 and 2015, adding to Angola’s rich legacy in the competition.

Therefore, Petro’s repeated deep runs are no coincidence. Instead, they reflect a system built for sustained success.

The anatomy of consistency

What separates Petro from the BAL’s rotating cast of contenders? The statistics tell part of the story. Through five seasons, Petro has compiled a 27-13 record across 40 games, the league’s best winning percentage among teams with multiple appearances. Locally, Petro’s stranglehold on the Angolan league, with six consecutive titles from 2019 to 2025, has ensured annual BAL qualification.

Yannick Moreira of Petro de Luanda — **Yannick Moreira brings veteran experience to Petro’s lineup. Picture: The BTO**

Four players that define an Era

However, Petro’s success is not just about trophies. It is also about the players who shape the team’s identity. Together, Childe Dundão, Aboubacar Gakou, Gerson Gonçalves and Yanick Moreira provide balance and continuity.

Childe Dundão

At 5ft6, Dundão is the team’s engine. He is also arguably the most impactful undersized player in BAL history. His 2025 season highlights his influence. He helped Petro reach the BAL final. Then, three months later, he won AfroBasket and earned MVP honours.

Moreover, his defensive intensity stands out. He has four All-Defensive Team selections in five seasons. At the same time, he led the Angolan league in assists for three straight years.

Aboubacar Gakou

Similarly, Gakou brings efficiency and versatility. In 2025, he earned All-BAL First Team honours and was named an MVP finalist. During the 2024 title run, he averaged 8.4 points and 5.8 rebounds in just 22.7 minutes. These numbers underscore his impact despite low usage.

Furthermore, as a three-time Angolan League MVP, he represents the modern big man. He is mobile, physical, and disciplined. As a result, he gives Petro defensive flexibility without sacrificing interior strength.

Gerson Lukeny

Every championship team needs a player who can deliver when the moment demands it – for Petro, that role often belongs to Gonçalves. He played a pivotal role in Petro’s 2024 BAL title run, scoring 16 points in the championship game against Al Ahly Libya. Known for his scoring ability, Gonçalves also holds Petro’s club record for the most points in a BAL playoff game with 28.

Yanick Moreira

At 34, Yanick Moreira represents the veteran presence every championship team needs. The 6 ft 10 centre took over as captain in 2025 and provides the defensive backbone that allows Petro’s guards to play aggressively.

Aboubakar Gakou at the 2025 BAL playoffs — **Aboubakar Gakou can stretch the floor for Petro.**

The 2025 Reckoning: Can Petro Reclaim the Crown?

As Petro prepares for BAL Season 6, which begins with the Kalahari Conference in Pretoria, South Africa (March 27 – April 5), the path back to the championship presents new challenges. They will face stiff competition from the hosts, the Johannesburg Giants, 2024 finalists Al Ahly Libya, DarCity, RSSB Tigers,

Roster changes

The Angolan club has undergone significant roster changes for the upcoming BAL season. Syrian-American point guard Javion Blake and South Sudanese guard Peter Jok have since joined the club, who represented South Sudan at the 2024 Paris Olympics and the FIBA Basketball World Cup.

Petro de Luanda enters BAL Season 6 not as favourites, but as the league’s standard-bearers. However, if history is a guide, Petro will be there at the end, either lifting the trophy or setting the benchmark that others must try to surpass.

In African basketball, consistency is the ultimate currency. And as a result, no team has accumulated more of it than the Os Petroleos from Luanda.

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Ibs and Thunder look to hit the right notes in KBL and BAL

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NAIROBI City Thunder have become domestic titans since the Twende ownership group took over the club. For the last two years, they have dominated the Kenyan basketball scene, and did so in spectacular fashion. One unbeaten season after another is shaping this ball club into a dynasty. The man who has crafted the Thunder’s invincibility on the court is Bradley Ibs.

With another season coming up, there will be new pressure. There will probably be talk of a dynasty and possibly maintaining the aura of invincibility. It’s something Ibs dismisses from his train of thought, and it has not crept into the team’s psyche.

“I think it’s something that gets discussed more outside our locker room than internally. I know that as a coaching staff, we spend zero time talking about it,” said Ibs. “It certainly doesn’t mean we don’t want to win. We are extremely competitive. I think our way of operation is ‘what can we do today, what can we do this week to get a little bit better?'”

Ibs continued: “We like to trust the fact that we have talented players in our locker room. I think if we stay on the cutting edge of improvement and keep the team motivated, then we can trust the results.”

Brad Ibs Road to BAL 2026 — **Brad Ibs and the Thunder want to redeem themselves in BAL Season 6. Pictures: FIBA**

While the Thunder ran rampant in the league again last year, Ibs says there were some nervous moments. “We had some scares last year… Some close games, I think one or two games might have gone into overtime,” said Ibs. “If we go undefeated again this season, then it will be great. I think ultimately we want to improve playing our best basketball until the end of the season and taking Nairobi City Thunder to another national championship.”

Ibs and the Thunder are also making a return to the BAL, after triumphing yet again at home at the Elite 16 stage of the continental qualifiers.

Having finished last year’s BAL Season 5 with a 1-5 record in the Nile Conference, Ibs will hope for a turnaround fortune this year.

He spoke about the lessons he learnt from their debut tournament and where he hopes the Thunder will finish this year.

“I think one of the lessons I learnt from the BAL last year is the importance of proper roster construction. There is a real sensitive balance when you build a roster for these types of tournaments,” said Ibs. “You need to maintain the core of who you are as much as you can, and also, there is a need for the high-level temporary players. Those are the plugin players because the time level is short to prepare them and get them on the same page.”

He finally spoke on the goal for this year’s BAL, and he intimated that going beyond the group stage would be a starting point.

“I think at a baseline level, we definitely want to make it out of conference play this year. We are also really hopeful that we will compete at a high level once we get into the final round in Rwanda,” said Ibs. “It was unfortunate how we played and how we represented ourselves last year. I don’t know how many teams in their first year of existence make it to the BAL… Win a game in the BAL. There were a lot of difficult lessons to learn, and I think we have learnt them.

“We look forward making some changes based on that knowledge that we got.”

Ibs and Thunder are in their preseason, and so far, they have hit the right notes with wins over a South Sudan select team and the army club, Ulinzi. With the rigours of domestic and international competition set to begin, Ibs will hope his band of Thunder players stay in tune and don’t miss a beat.

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Daho talks commentary journey and winning on the court

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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.”

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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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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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Diabate hungry for BAL title and the ring of victory

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SOLO Diabate certainly has to be one of the greatest stories to come from the BAL, which is now in its fifth season. The mercurial Ivorian point guard is the personification of what success and consistency are on the court. The floor general shares the record of winning the most BAL titles (two), and on Saturday afternoon, he will appear in a fourth final, a record he owns.

The latter bothers the Petro de Luanda player because, in his words, “no one remembers that you played in the final”. The competitor in Diabate will not allow him to settle for second place. In his second stint with Petro, he hopes to help them defend the title they won last year and win his third BAL trophy at the Sunbet Arena against Libya’s Al Ahli Tripoli.

“Being in the final means nothing. I want to win. I won the first two titles… With Zamalek and then US Monastir. I did not make the final in the third season, and I lost playing for Al Ahli Benghazi in the fourth,” said Diabate. “No one remembers that I was in the final. Ok, it’s talked about. But everyone remembers Petro won last year.

“I don’t want to be in the final just to say I played in it this many times… I want to win.”

The 37-year-old says he kept his cool after Petro cut down Egyptian giants Al Ittihad, unbeaten before the semi-final on Wednesday night. More than winning the trophy, this year, the BAL has also introduced winners’ rings, and Diabate wants to be the first to put one on.

“That is why yesterday, after the semi-final, I did not celebrate too much. The job is not done until you win the cup and the ring. The BAL is also giving rings to the winners, so I want to win so I can be among the first players to wear it on their finger,” said a two-time AfroBasket silver medallist.

Solo Diabate Petro de Luanda — **Solo Diabate wants a BAL title more than to set records. Pictures: The BTO**

As he said, the job of the BAL is far from over, and he did not want to entertain the talk of the potential of sitting atop the totem pole as the sole player to win the trophy three times. He recalled a statement made by former NBA player Ian Mahinmi that might have jinxed him ahead of the final against Petro last year.

“I don’t want to talk about it. I remember last year, before the final, Ian Mahinmi told me, ‘Solo. If you win your third final, we are going to retire your jersey.’ I was like ok, but we lost the game,” said Diabate. “So I don’t want to talk or think too far ahead about the other stuff… I want to win first.

“I am not here to set records. Or try to be the first to do this or that. If I win, I will be happy.”

Before delving further into Saturday’s final, Diabate spoke about his return to Angola, specifically, Petro, and the BAL season the club has had. He described the club as a well-run institution, and he articulated his admiration for Os Petroleos’ loyal fans.

“I love everything around Angolan basketball. People care about it, and that is why the game has developed the way it has. As Petro, they take care of players. That’s why I came back,” said Diabate. “Also, the fans… I remember playing in the gym two years ago and how packed it was for those games. I liked it. Our goal that year was to win the BAL, but it didn’t happen… It’s a second chance to win it.”

He rejoined a Petro that is without legends like Carlos Morais, Jone Pedro and Gerson Lukeny, who all moved on to different clubs. While it was an adjustment for Diabate, he spoke with the understanding that it is part of the cycle of sports players to move on from clubs.

“They are my brothers. Even if I played with them for a season, we remain close. I think the Angolan players felt the change the most because they played with them (the legends) the longest,” said Diabate. “It was weird to go back and have them not there, but its part of the business… I am old enough to undertstand that.”

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Despite the significant personnel change, Diabate and the new-look Petro again defended the domestic league and cup titles, and many would have expected them to blitz through the tough Sahara Conference in Senegal.

It was not the case, as Petro gave inconsistent performances in the group phase. In their three wins, they looked like championship material, and in their three losses, they resembled a has-been outfit.

“It was the hardest conference. Our conference was the most competitive. All the teams were good. It’s basketball. Sometimes you shine, and other times it’s a struggle,” said Diabate. “People started saying we are not ready. But here we are in the final. We have two new players that have helped us. These are great guys and additions. They changed things for us.”

Diabate was referring to South Africa’s small forward, Samkelo Cele and American combo guard, Kendrick Ray, who both signed for Petro for the playoffs in South Africa.

Both players were part of the seeding game loss to Rwanda’s APR, and that defeat heightened the noise of Petro’s doubters. Diabate reasoned that the loss was a necessary wake-up call for him and his teammates.

“They destroyed us, physically, technically, in everything. They were strong,” said Diabate. “So we went back to the hotel, watched some video footage, and took time to think about the game. This got us ready against Monastir, a team we played twice in Senegal.”

Between the loss to APR and the eventual victory over Tunisia’s Monastir, something shifted. Sergio Moreno tinkered with his starting line-up in the quarter-final against Monsatir and employed a similar strategy against Al Ittihad, leading to a third final appearance for Petro. While Moreno’s move confused the hell out of their opposition on two occasions, Diabate downplayed it.

“The changing of line-ups is nothing special because we have a lot of players. They all bring something to the court. So our coach has a lot of choices,” Diabate.

The BAL final brings a certain feeling of déjà vu for Petro as they face another Libyan opposition in Al Ahli Tripoli. Diabate, who is well-versed in Libyan basketball, expects Tripoli to bring their A-game.

“This is one of the hardest finals I am going to play in. They are a strong team and well-coached, but we are ready for those 40 minutes of basketball,” Diabate stated confidently.

Diabate pledged they want to win BAL Season 5 for the Petro fans, but he also wants a triumph for sentimental reasons.

“We are going to fight like we have since the beginning. We want to make history for everybody. I want to win it for my dad, too. He loves Petro, I don’t know why but he has always loved them. So, I want to win it for him,” concluded Diabate.

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Strong family ties and hardwork put Marei in position for success

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EGYPTIAN baller Assem Marei says family is one of the elements that has kept him grounded since he started playing basketball. His father, mother and brother all played their part in schooling him on the finer points of the game. Now, as a grown man and a professional, his wife is playing a key role in being the glue that holds his family together, and her presence has helped Marei achieve a thriving career.

In an interview with The Big Tip Off, Al Ahli Tripoli player Marei described how his family’s influence has encompassed his career. He also talks about being part of Libyan club Al Ahli Tripoli’s push for success at the BAL playoffs.

Thirty-year-old Marei, the son of a former basketball player, Ahmed Marei, who now coaches, says his family taught him how to be coachable, which in turn made him a better player.

“My dad, mom and brother… Everybody played basketball, so I grew up around it. My father has been a head coach for as long as I can remember. I had three head coaches, so it gave me a level head and it taught me to accept criticism and not to be sensitive,” said the Egyptian national team player. “One of the things I can say about myself is that I am coachable and I can accept criticism from a coach because I have had it my whole life.”

The tough love from his family paid off as his game grew, leading the former Zamalek player to be part of a generation of Egyptian players who made their way to college in the United States.

“One of the programs that opened that door was Basketball Without Borders (BWB). It (BWB) and the national federation paved the way for me to attend college,” said Marei, who attended Minnesota State University and graduated with a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies.

Assem Marei Al Ahli Tripoli — **Assem Marei’s career began in Egypt, and it has seen him go on to have a phenomenal career abroad. Pictures: The BTO**

His career from college to the pros has been a picture of toil and well-earned accolades. Marei, who earned NSIC (Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference) honours from 2012-2015, says the success comes from understanding what his job is on the court and being great at it.

“I am grateful. I never expected to play this long, ten years as a professional outside of Egypt and three years in college. Every year, I get hungrier. I feel I have the best job in the world. I want to keep it going for as long as possible,” said Marei. “The one thing I am big on is job descriptions. Growing up, it’s something my dad talked to me about. He’s huge on job descriptions on the court. It’s something I accepted. So what I do on the court, I do at a high level.

“That helped me throughout my career… Focusing on inside presence, rebounding and helping my team. So, I am not going to be a pick and pop shooter or shoot three points… Those things will take away from what got me here.”

Marei joined Al Ahli Tripoli for the BAL playoffs in South Africa after helping to lead the South Korean club Changwon LG Sakers to the KBL (Korean Basketball League) title.

Travelling through the different time zones took a lot out of him, and obtaining a visa to travel to South Africa seemed like an extreme sport. Marei had to country hop a bit before securing his travel documents to South Africa. Despite the challenge and toll it took, Marei was calm.

“It was the most difficult thing I have gone through in my career. I am happy to be here,” said Marei. “I had to bring my wife and kids to Egypt first and stayed there for a bit. From home, I had to fly to Rwanda and then to Istanbul to get a visa for South Africa. Things did not work in Istanbul, so I had to fly to Tunisia and then back home to take care of my wife and other things.”

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Through the visa ordeal and being an accomplished sportsman, Marei says the presence of his wife allows him to focus on his job.

“My wife is amazing. She does everything. She helps me focus on basketball. To me, it’s always family first. When that is taken care of, I can do my job,” said Marei. “Sometimes it’s too much for her. I have two boys and we are expecting a third baby. She has been an important part of this.”

In South Africa, for the last week, Marei has also had to give his attention to the Al Ahli Tripoli family, which is trying to become the first club from Libya to win the BAL title.

So far, he has had a productive three games, two in the Nile Conference against APR (10 points and nine rebounds) and MBB (18 points and 10 rebounds) and in the quarter-finals against Kriol Star (13 points and 13 rebounds).

While the numbers are pleasing to the eye and have contributed to Al Ahli becoming the second club from Libya to progress to the semi-finals, where they will face familiar foe APR, Marei feels he can up his game a bit more.

“It can get better. One of my favourite things is I love when other players enjoy playing with me. That makes me happy as a player. I think we are achieving that,” said Marei. “I like to be a players player… Helping my teammates to play better. We are transitioning well. We are getting better with every game.”

On Wednesday at the Sunbet Arena, Marei and his teammates will face an improved APR team that dismantled the Rivers Hoopers in their Monday afternoon quarter-final clash.

“APR have size and they are athletic. They cover space well. So our offence has to play the right way… We have to space and all that because they can cover their defensive mistake by their size,” said Marei.

Assem Marei in action for Al Ahli Tripoli — **Assem Marei has enjoyed his time at Al Ahli Tripoli, and he believes members of the club put in a good shift, so it can be successful.**

Al Ahli will attempt to match the feats of rivals Al Ahli Benghazi by becoming the second Road to BAL and Libyan team to qualify for the BAL final. Given his closeness to the situation, Marei shared why Libyan teams are succeeding at the BAL.

“They have so much heart. Not just the players, but the staff at the club too. They have put so much heart and soul into this. And the whole country is watching,” said Marei. “It’s exciting to be part of an organisation where basketball means so much. It puts a huge responsibility on our shoulders.

“If you are a good high-level player, you want that. We want every game to mean a lot and not just play nonchalantly. It makes the game a lot more fun.”

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