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Basketball South Africa executive fumble the ball

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LIKE many in the South African basketball fraternity, I watched with great bewilderment on Friday as Basketball South Africa (BSA) made a comical and shoddy attempt to present their Annual Report and give feedback on their hosting of the FIBA U18 AfroBasket to the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Sports, Arts and Culture.

It was a disaster, to say the least, and probably set the game back. So the portfolio committee rightly had a field day – grilling and roasting the federation for what they offered.

Federation president Sanele Mthiyane and his secretary general Sibongile Fondini only succeeded in greeting and introducing themselves to the committee members. After the formalities, one elected official after the other tore into their sorry excuse for a report – leaving both men embarrassed.

Men's U18 AfroBasket — **South Africa’s U18 men’s team had a poor showing at the U18 AfroBasket tournament. Pictures: The BTO**

Terms like incompetence, ineptitude, and out of their depth traversed my mind as the committee members highlighted the cacophony of errors in the report the secretary general tried to present.

It (the report) seriously lacked attention to detail. The poor numbering of pages drew the ire and laughter of committee members in attendance. Portfolio chairperson, Joseph McGluwa pointed out the lack of indicators and targets on the report to show BSA’s performance. There was no way of telling whether any performance targets had been reached. He noted that it was erroneous for Fondini to be the sole author of the report. “Under normal circumstances, a report of this nature is prepared by all assigned or by all members,” said McGluwa.

It turned into a masterclass on how not to run a federation. It seemed as if BSA was keen to present box-ticking exercises of events without providing sufficient scope of how they benefited or progressed South African basketball.

Aware that BSA was trying to pull a fast one, the Portfolio Committee duly blocked the attempt by BSA to proceed with their presentation.

Sibongile Fondini at the BSA presser — **BSA Secretary General Sibongile Fondini could not present the Annual Report on Friday.**

Liam Jacobs, a portfolio committee member and former player, highlighted how BSA’s actions hindered basketball in the country. He was scathing in his assessment, given his attachment to basketball.

“This is what we call a generational fumble. In basketball terms, it is a fumble. This is a shame. It is completely wrong and if it goes on like this, South Africa is never gonna get its own Kobe Bryant. South Africa is never gonna get its own Michael Jordan. South Africa is never gonna get its own LeBron James. We will be stuck with the worst of the worst until Basketball South Africa gets its house in order. …Basketball has its own capacity to be part of Project 300. If we want to send more Olympians, we need to develop them in sports such as basketball. This is absolutely disgusting. It’s despicable. The report is airy-fairy. It’s wishy-washy,” said Jacobs.

The exasperated parliamentarians sent Mthiyane and Fondini packing, with the former offering a meagre apology. BSA was instructed to present itself to Parliament again and revise its report. The Department of Sports Arts and Culture was requested to accompany BSA on that visit.

Anyone who listened to the remarks lambasting BSA would have cause to run to the hilltops and shout for the BSA executive to resign. Whether that will happen is another thing, but they (BSA) can no longer fly under the radar.

It comes against the backdrop of the unorganised way BSA delivered the U18 AfroBasket, a tournament they had known about for over six months. The 11th-hour announcement of the South African men’s and women’s teams ahead of the tournament bordered on the ridiculous. In the end, the poor results from both teams were not surprising as there was zero preparation time.

Irked and disheartened by the losses of both teams, especially the women (who suffered heavy defeats), Samkelo Cele, one of South Africa’s finest talents, tweeted on X (formerly known as Twitter). “These are not “tough losses” these are embarrassing losses and something needs to change. This song has been sung over and over again. Can we actually start doing something about basketball in South Africa because I am tired of things being like this. CAN THE FEDERATION WORK?”

The scathing statements of the Portfolio Committee and Cele’s comment indicate that the national federation is irredeemable.

**BSA president Sanele Mthiyane could only apologise to the portfolio committee for their poor report.**

CAN THE FEDERATION WORK? It is a resounding Yes.

The basketball fraternity must select and elect the best among themselves. South Africa does not lack the intellectual, business and technical expertise to make basketball work. BSA can do with a dose of good fortune in leadership. If South Africa gets it right at the national level, this will have a cascading impact at all the other levels.

A change in leadership is only the beginning. BSA must run a capable office that coordinates and drives basketball activities in the country. A fit-for-purpose office should enhance BSA’s communication with its key stakeholders in the basketball fraternity. That office can leverage commercial opportunities to support those activities.

The Department of Sport Arts and Culture must support the federation’s revival.

That roadmap to recovery should include how districts and provinces can align to support the national program. Talent identification programs should be streamlined to support a common goal. Referees and technical officials should be capacitated to support the basketball program. Coaches should be empowered to maintain high standards in player development.

At a continental level, BSA must nurture a better working relationship with FIBA Africa. South Africa can benefit from the talent development programmes FIBA offers. An enhanced relationship with FIBA Africa will also be beneficial when South Africa hosts continental basketball tournaments.

South African basketball deserves better. BSA can do better.

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Players, colleagues pay homage to the late Letha Zulu

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Gumede: I could write a book about the guy

LETHUXOLO ‘Letha’ Zulu’s is one of the most revered basketball coaches in South Africa. The reason being, he has helped to mould and shape some of the country’s best and most promising talents.

Samkelo Cele, Thabo Sithole and Liam Reid are among the players who had their game was shaped by Zulu, the head of the famed Durban High School basketball program.

When the news of his untimely passing last Sunday came to light, it was a cruel blow to the game in the country. A blow felt by his home province, KwaZulu-Natal, the players nurtured by him, his friends, colleagues and most importantly, his family.

At the time of his death Zulu was meant to lead South Africa’s men’s team at the FISU World University Games (28 July – 8 August) in Chengdu, China.

With this sad state of affairs, one can only imagine the pain of the players. The Games being close by and the man who was supposed to lead them not being there. Players and colleague spoke to The Big Tip Off about the impact of Zulu on them and the game.

Players and colleagues spoke fondly of Zulu

Kwazi Gumede, shooting guard of the South African team, spoke of his sadness at the loss of Zulu and describes as being genuine with players.

“I think about the moments he shared with us individually or as players, and it breaks my heart that he is no longer with us. Coach will not be with us on the flight to China. He is not going to coach us. He is not going to be there,” said the Tshwane University of Technology player. “Coach Letha knew how to engage with players. South African basketball has lost a real one.”

“I could write a book about this guy. He is just amazing. We are going to miss him. I do not doubt that coach Mandla (Ngema) and ourselves as players will make him proud.”

The University of Pretoria’s big man Nhlanhla Vela, who is part of the student team, felt Zulu had a lot to give.

“Coach Letha was a great coach. The news (of his passing) hurt. I had known him for a while and I feel he still had a lot to teach. He believed in me and thought I have what it takes to become great in this game. I want to make him proud and finish what he has started (with the national team),” said Vela.

Cape Town Tigers players Samkelo Cele and Liam Reid, had nothing but praised their former mentor: “Coach Zulu was more than coach to me. He was more than a coach to anyone who played under him. He taught me the game, and he taught me how to love the game,” said Cele, who starred for the Tigers at this year’s Basketball Africa League. “Beyond the game, he was a great and selfless person. I don’t know any other person like that in the world.

“He is a guy who probably had opportunities to leave DHS. Instead choosing green pastures, he stayed to give kids, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, opportunities to see the world differently.”

Story image — **Samkelo Cele says described Zulu as a selfless person.**

Tigers centre, Reid says Zulu helped to set him on his present path in the game.

“Coach Zulu was the first to show me I could have a future in this game. His teachings have brought me far in life. He was a guy who believed in me. And believed all the players he coached,” said the former KwaZulu-Natal Marlins player. “He was an open-hearted and selfless man… A role model for many people in and around basketball.

“Whenever I reached out, he wished me the best.”

Another former DHS player, Thabo Sithole, developed under the tutelage of Zulu. He played many a game under Zulu from high school level, at the University of KwaZulu-Natal and the junior national team. Sithole described his former coach as a disciplined man who worked to “instill” the same principle in his players.

“On and off the court, he used to push us… Running suicides and doing other basketball drills. He was trying to instill that strong work ethic in us. Off the court, he was present for players. I would say he was great dude,” said Sithole, who represented South Africa at the 2017 AfroBasket.

Coaching colleague Craig Gilchrist says Zulu was one of the pillars of the game in KwaZulu-Natal and the district of Ethekwini.

“We were all shocked on hearing the news of the passing of Letha. He was one of the fathers of KZN Basketball. He has left a huge hole. The game survived the tough times thanks to him,” said Gilchrist, who led South Africa at the 2017 AfroBasket.

“Had it not been for him starting the EBA and providing a platform for the players to participate, basketball would not be what it is today in KZN. He was an inspiration and mentor to many young players who came through DHS in the past 15 years. It is truly a sad moment for KZN basketball as we mourn the loss of one of our own.

“Condolences to the Zulu family. They will be in our thoughts and prayers.”

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The University of Pretoria’s junior program and second team coach coach Lesiba Molothane said in his memorial message: “We had the privilege of meeting Letha Zulu back in 2003 during the Olympic Solidarity Coaches’ program, and from that moment, a special bond was formed. Letha was not just an exceptional coach; he was a mentor, a guide, and a source of inspiration for all those fortunate enough to know him. His dedication and unwavering passion for basketball were unmatched, and he poured his heart and soul into nurturing young talents, moulding them into confident athletes.”

The overarching theme of Zulu’s character is that of a player’s coach. A man who gave his all to the game and expected the players he coached to do the same. The gratitude towards him is understandable, he left an indelible legacy.

Go well, Coach Zulu. You have served, and deeds of your work will forever live in those you impacted.

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Ngobeni reflects on US journey and Mamba moment

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… also sees the bright side despite losing two BNL finals

THE name Tsakani Ngobeni is synonymous with basketball in South Africa. So, it’s hard to imagine the country’s game could have seen his talents lost to other sports. Thankfully a growth spurt, and coaches of alternative sports deciding he was too tall, he went on to have a fulfilling career in basketball.

Soweto-born Ngobeni’s journey took him across the Atlantic to the United States on a scholarship. He also got to where the green and of South Africa in continental competition. When the Basketball National League (BNL) launched in 2013, many fans saw him show out firstly for Soweto Panthers and then Duzi Royals, who no longer exist.

The 39-year-old spoke to The Big Tip Off during a Jr NBA clinic held for 500 kids at the Klipspruit Sports Centre in Soweto on Youth Day (16 June). He gave some insights into his playing career and also used the opportunity to express his joy at sharing some pointers of the game with the kids during the clinic.

“We have kids here who are getting to learn the basic skills needed to play basketball. Passing, shooting, dribbling, communicating and life skills as well. Some of the things I have mentioned are the foundations of life,” said Ngobeni.

“I am happy that these kids have shown up, especially on this day [Youth Day]. For me, it’s special because I get to celebrate teaching a sport I love.”

Tsakani Ngobeni giving out pointers — **Tsakani Ngobeni shares some pointers at the Jr NBA clinic. Pictures: The BTO**

Ngobeni also enjoyed the day with his son, who was among the kids participating in the drills.

“He chose the sport, and now he gets to enjoy himself while learning and doing the skills I mentioned earlier,” said the small forward.

The love for basketball

The former South African international player explained his journey into the game.

“I discovered basketball when I was young. Also coaches of other sports said I was too tall,” said Ngobeni. “Basketball allowed me to be versatile and play multiple positions. It gave me the freedom to express myself, and coaches also gave me the space to do so.”

The American Dream

The 6ft6 (1.99m) Ngobeni got an opportunity many in his position could only wish for or dream of. A scholarship paved the way for Ngobeni to pursue education and basketball in the United States.

He says the chance to go to the US came through a clinic like the one held by the Jr NBA. The journey had an initial hiccup. A hand injury would test Ngobeni’s resolve, but his determination ensured the door to the US remained open.

“Funny enough, it happened in a similar setting like this in Soweto at the Elka Stadium. Mike Finley spotted me and was impressed with some of my attributes, especially my height. Unfortunately, I had a broken hand, so it delayed the process,” said Ngobeni.

“After my hand healed, I wanted to prove to him (Finley) that I could still ball. I showed up, and he felt I had something they could work with. That’s when I got the chance to attend St Anne’s Belfield School in Virginia and then the scholarship to study at Hamilton College.

**Tsakani Ngobeni had successful college career in the United States.**

The 2007 All-American explained that one of the main requirements for players to put on a playing vest is to do well in the classroom. Ngobeni says it is an aspect that is often not talked about.

“It was challenging, and one has to produce in the classroom to play. So, I spent time in the library and many late nights up. It’s another part that people do speak enough about – you need to show up academically,” said Ngobeni, who holds BA in Commutations. “You need good results, and on the court, you have to fight for your minutes because there is always someone to replace you. Always!

Clearly Ngobeni made the most of his playing time and he left an impressive legacy at the NCAA Division III college. A legacy that saw him score over 1000 points. Apart from being named an All-American, he was also an NABC first-team All-East region and the Liberty League Player of the Year after the 2006-07 season.

“Those years were a lot of hard work and fun when I look back. While I was doing it was something else,” said Ngobeni. “You need to show up. When you do that and compete at that level, good things happen.

“I always strive to be in the top three in everything I do on the court. That is scoring, rebounding and cheering on my teammates. If you top three in those things, there is no way the coach can’t play you.”

The BNL … Close, but no cigar

In the inaugural season (2013) of the Basketball National League (BNL), Ngobeni, one of the stars of the league, was part of an exciting Soweto Panthers team. He would also spend two seasons at the defunct Duzi Royals, which also had high calibre players.

Those teams (Panthers and Royals) surprisingly fell short of expectations. As a Panthers player in season one of the BNL, Ngobeni would see his team suffer a semi-final loss to four-time BNL champions Tshwane Suns. The following two seasons at the Royals, Ngobeni would help lead the team to consecutive finals, but the KwaZulu-Natal team saw the Suns and five-time BNL champions Egoli Magic curtail their ambition.

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Despite those disappointments, Ngobeni chose to see the bright side.

“Yeah, man… Close, but no cigar. It’s always been fun. The one thing I enjoyed about Duzi was the practices. They were the most competitive [practices] I have participated in. Credit must got to Kevin Mabanga and his ownership group for putting that team together,” said Ngobeni.

“At the Panthers, we had me, Thabang Kgwedi, Nyakallo Nthuphing and Jonathan Van Der Bijl. Those guys were some of the top-tier talents in this country, and I enjoyed playing with them and trying to win alongside them.”

The Mamba moment with the national team

Ngobeni played for the national team for over a decade and represented the country in four AfroBasket tournaments. While results have never gone South Africa’s way continentally, Ngobeni has always enjoyed donning national team colours.

“I loved it. To be among the top 12 in the country has always been an honour. To wear the green and gold is one of my proudest moments. Also, I enjoy that my peers are alive to tell my son about the good and bad games,” said Ngobeni.

“I also enjoyed the friendships I made during those times. We have been through trenches and fought a lot of battles. I also learnt a lot about myself while representing the country.”

In 2017, Ngobeni had one of the most outstanding games by a South African player. The national team faced Zimbabwe in a two-legged tie, and at stake was qualification for the AfroBasket tournament of that year.

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In the first game at home, South Africa found themselves 20 points down in the second half, and Ngobeni explained to FIBA.basketball that he had his Mamba moment. What was also significant for him, was the sneakers he had on.

“I like to call it my Mamba Moment, and I happened to be wearing Kobes that evening. In that game, I played the role of a facilitator, but we had our backs were against the wall,” said Ngobeni, who finished that game with 20 points in South Africa’s 74-67 victory. “I realised I needed to show the guys how it’s done. I hit a couple of twos and threes. It had a ripple effect as Neo (Mothiba) and Lebesa (Selepe) also started making their shots. I am the guy most people remember, but it was a team effort. Once the ball started going in, my teammates also stepped up because a lot was on the line.

“Those are the kind of games you want to have, where your family and friends watch you do what you love and help to inspire your team.”

South Africa and Zimbabwe split the series 1-1, but South Africa qualified for the 2017 AfroBasket because of a better points differential.

Tsakani the commentator

Ngobeni has since retired from the national team, and he now turns out for the Jozi Nuggets. He has also carved out another avenue for himself in the game. These Ngobeni can be seen giving expert analysis behind the microphone in local BNL games and continental qualifiers. He explained at first that he got a rude awakening and realised there is more to the profession than meets the eye.

Tsakani Ngobeni the commentator — **Tsakani Ngobeni next to co-commentator Nompumelelo Ramatsoga during the 2021 Road To BAL qualifying tournament.**

“It’s been challenging. You think these guys just show up and talk. A whole lot of preparation goes into it. You have to know the players, the coaches and be objective. When you watch the game, sometimes you can sometimes be a fan. So one has to learn to be objective,” said Ngobeni.

As his playing days wind down, Ngobeni says he is getting comfortable being more on the TV screen and sharing his thoughts than being on the court.

“It’s about the body I have… And the one I have now, I would rather be behind the mic,” quipped Ngobeni.

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The unchanging character of BSA

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“And from an outsider’s perspective looking in, it certainly looks like a power grab”

BASKETBALL South Africa (BSA) held their president’s meeting on Saturday, amid protests by the Friends of Basketball, who questioned the constitutionality of the gathering.

Questions are probably now being asked about the outcomes of that meeting, and what the way forward is. If anything, the basketball community is owed transparency by the BSA leadership about what they have determined to do for the remainder of the year and how to revitalise the game. One of the vices of previous and present BSA leadership is the lack of transparency about the goings on within the organisation, which directly impacts its credibility.

This further gives credence to protest group Friends of Basketball’s sentiment that the meeting was created by the current leadership, under Sanele Mthiyane, to further entrench themselves within the organisation.

Sports caster and former South African basketball player Quintin Denyssen, believes that BSA could have been more proactive in engaging with the South African basketball community, at the height of lockdown. And so, the status quo of not being transparent, further dimmed the flickering light on an already troubled national basketball governing body.

Some of these things could have been avoided, if action was taken during the more turbulent times of lockdown. We were inactive as the basketball community. BSA and the respective associations could have done a needs analysis on basketball. We all know that BSA has been plagued by maladministration, inaction but all this could have been avoided if the letter of the law (BSA constitution) had been followed,” said the former Wits University player.

“My understanding of the constitution is reasonable. The scheduling of an AGM was what people are contesting. The constitution makes provision for representatives from functioning districts and associations to be part of an AGM or a BSA meeting. That’s what the basketball community is fighting for and questioning. The constitutionality of the meeting.”

Denyssen, who has also played basketball in Mozambique, pointed out that the problems being faced by South African basketball are nothing new and last Saturday’s meeting did nothing to quell the feeling that the current administration wants to hold on to power.

It feels like a power grab. And from an outsider’s perspective looking in, it certainly looks like a power grab. But I am a bit optimistic because at least (BSA) they have taken an action. I understand all of our frustration in the basketball community, because there is no trust between (BSA) administration and those working in the provincial associations and that has filtered down to the players and fans. This problem is inherent and has been there for the better part of 20 years. In that time the basketball community has seen limited change,” said Denyssen, who encouraged the BSA leadership to be transparent in how it conducts its affairs.

“If you try to build any sort of trust. Or try to rebuild a relationship with a community that has expressed its dissatisfaction given with what they have seen, transparency has to be the immediate focus. Because that has certainly been lacking in traditional basketball structures. And I don’t think the meeting that happened on Saturday helped matters. If anything, it has probably damaged it again.”

Third Pic — **BSA president Sanele Mthiyane’s leadership has come into question. Picture:Supplied**

Denyssen was also critical of BSA president Mthiyane of not making his presence felt on these critical issues that are faced by South African basketball.

“You need a leadership that represents the overall view or sentiments of the community. People don’t feel that our current president has exhibited strong leadership, because of lack of visibility, and communication with the community. We have seen spurts of it. But it’s been generally too silent,” said Denyssen who complimented the action taken by Friends of Basketball, under hashtag #FixSABasketball, imploring Sports Minister Nathi Mthethwa to intervene in the crisis.

“I am certainly for it. We see it in one of our popular sports, cricket. Where the minister’s interference could have a direct effect on South Africa’s ability to compete internationally. But if it’s going to fundamentally fix a corrupt organisation, which CSA (Cricket South Africa) are being positioned as, in the media then it’s the job of the ministry to ensure that sport is being played on free and fair grounds. There should be no abuse of power and no individual should claim ownership of a sport. This applies to basketball too.”

Finally, another issue the BSA leadership faces is the assumption that they are using basketball incorrectly to advance themselves. Denyssen took a different tone on the matter, saying from his interactions with the leadership it seemed like they were interested in moving the game forward.

“The self-advancement sentiment is always going to be there. However, in my dealings with them, I do get the sense that they have the sport’s interest at heart too. I just don’t think they are going about it in the right way.

Fourth Pic — **CEO of Wheelchair Basketball South Africa Charles Saunders, far left, has been hailed for his acumen for administration. Picture: Supplied**

“They have been trying to get the right people to assist with administration. I think by roping in Charles Saunders from Wheelchair Basketball South Africa, they made a good decision. I think he has a great track record in administration. Irrespective of who he works with, he is someone who knows how to run and administer the sport, to keep it in good standing with FIBA, and this helps with building credibility,” said Denyssen.

From Denyssen words, new life can be breathed into South African basketball. Whilst BSA has been found wanting in some instances, it is encouraging that some of their steps are right. The basketball community must also be credited for finding their collective voice and wanting to hold those steering the BSA ship accountable so that basketball can bounce back as a sport of choice.

The basketball community desires and deserves openness and transparency in the functioning of the BSA. By making the outcomes of the meeting on Saturday public will be an appropriate first step in rebuilding the confidence of a disaffected basketball community.

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The rot in Basketball South Africa, why should we care?

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Mthiyane: We have to get a sense of what is going on the ground

THE foundation of South African basketball has always been a shaky one and poor governance has been the dominant theme. The blame for the sport bouncing about without direction can be placed right at the doorstep of previous and present leadership of Basketball South Africa (BSA).

Are you a basketball player or a coach? Do you have an interest in basketball administration? Are you a referee or a sports scientist that is interested in basketball? Do you have a child that is interested in basketball? Are you a media practitioner that is interested in covering the sport? If your answer is yes to any of these questions, then this should matter to you.

This is an example of how a whole value chain is impacted by the inertia in South African basketball, where many people’s talents could have been unleashed to improve the game. But, this has not been the case, because of poor governance in the sport.

When the lockdown began, the hope was that the leadership at various levels (district, provincial and national) would work together to strategise on how to revive the sport.

There were official meetings to begin the rebuilding process, but along the way a few hurdles were experienced, as official processes allegedly did not favour the agendas of certain individuals (those holding power). Basketball, this time went from bouncing without direction to being completely deflated.

**Tsakani Ngobeni celebrates with fans after South Africa qualified for Afrobasket 2017. Pictures: Supplied**

The depressing state of affairs led to questions being asked and conversations being had in private and on social media spaces (Let’s talk SA basketball on Facebook) and Twitter (Thabo Sithole’s tweet to the minister), about what was going on.

Instead of making use of a golden opportunity to get things right, those in power retreated to the more familiar path of shooting air balls and not doing anything to move the game forward.

And now, with basketball allowed to resume activities, the sentiment remains that the leadership under current BSA president Sanele Mthiyane is not being transparent. And that the leadership is not taking the necessary steps to bring the basketball community together to solve this crisis.

Further, Mthiyane and his team have been at the helm of BSA for a few years now but basketball remains at a standstill since they took over, and questions regarding legitimacy have arisen. The questioning of Mthiyane’s validity as president emanates from the following issues:

The duration of his term of office is in question
BSA financials have not been shared with the basketball community and the public
BSA has not had a fully constituted AGM
BSA has 5 active members instead of 15 members, which raises questions about meeting quorums
There have not been national programs for the last five years

The BSA has set guidelines for the resumption of the sport. However, there has been no clear direction given to provinces on the resumption of basketball activities, including sharing of BSA’s future plans regarding basketball.

And now, BSA has requested a meeting at the last minute (5 October 2020) with the provincial chairpersons scheduled for Saturday, 17 October to outline the way forward. This has been met by an online petition led by a group named the Friends of Basketball Movement against the AGM and pleading for government intervention.

In response to these sentiments, Mthiyane pointed out that it is part of his mandate as president of the federation to call meetings with chairpersons, and highlighted the impact COVID-19 has had on their plans for the year.

**Christopher Gabriel playing for South Africa during the BRICS tournament in China.**

“The constitution of BSA allows the president to have a meeting with chairpersons and engage them on views they deem to be in the interests of basketball. Of course, we were hit by the COVID-19 pandemic which put sport activities on hold. Now that basketball has resumed, we have to engage various people, because we cannot decide unilaterally what needs to happen. We have to get a sense of what is going on the ground, and how we move forward,” said Mthiyane.

A fundamental question regarding this is, who the provincial chairpersons that BSA will be meeting are as this information is not in the public domain.

Mthiyane refutes the notion that during his tenure an AGM is yet to be held. “It’s not true. Last year in November we hand an AGM and members were there. We decided on an action plan that was clear and that by March we should give a report back. We formed various commissions and responsibilities were given. Unfortunately, the lockdown happened. What could we do? Even FIBA put their programs on hold.” said. However, consistent communication with the basketball community by BSA has been an ongoing concern.

The BSA president lambasted those that questioned the legitimacy of the members attending the meeting on Saturday through social media.

It’s unfortunate that when you don’t like a person, you can write whatever you like about them. It’s unfortunate but we are a democratic country. We (BSA) are not driven by what is said on social media. Those who criticise us must be asked whether they participate in the clubs as that is the directive we have given. So, you will find those that have opinions are not part of clubs, institutions and provinces. We are not in any position to certify views posted on social media, but we welcome views and engagements from the clubs.” said Mthiyane, who belongs to a club called Rim Shakers in Shakaville.

On the matter of BSA being dormant, Mthiyane pointed out that since he assumed office in 2015, two years later, the men’s national team competed in Afrobasket in Senegal and participated in an international tournament in China. All this despite the organisation having a tight budget. The basketball community would like to see BSA do more with its national programmes.

**Women’s national team during AfroBasket 2015.**

“Remember, basketball in South Africa has challenges, but we are still building capacity in terms coaches and referees. Also, USSA and schools with the assistance of the department are continuing with their programs. In the provinces, leagues are continuing even though there are challenges here and there,” said Mthiyane.

“We are going to tell the chairpersons we are ready. Our finances are in order, and we are ready to call an AGM to deal with what we have been commissioned to do. My job is not to address the media about the constitutional matters we are going to talk about. I have a duty to inform the public about what we, as BSA have resolved to do.”

And there you have it! It is clear that for far too long South African basketball has been shooting rather aimlessly. Is there a glimmer of hope? We cannot conclude on that. The basketball community must continue to hold BSA accountable. And the BSA must discharge its responsibility and take the basketball community into its confidence on all matters basketball.

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Rakhudu sets the basketball wheels in motion

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“It tells me I am on the right track and there is so much more to be done”

DARK grey clouds have for decades engulfed South African basketball. To even mention the country and the sport in one sentence is an anomaly.

Occasionally, the dark clouds do disperse and a ray of sunlight does permeate, giving hope that the potential of the sport can be leveraged to benefit present and future generations.

That ray of sunlight has been the achievement of Kgolagano Rakhudu, who was recently named in the Mail & Guardian’s top 200 young South Africans. Rakhudu was acknowledged for the work he is doing to empower the youth through the Ball In Motion (BIM) and the Royal Bafokeng Jr. NBA programs based in Rustenburg, North West province.

Rakhudu, 29, expressed delight at his achievement and described 2020 as the year when it all came together.

It’s an honour and a privilege to be recognised as one of the top young South Africans making an impact in the work they do. And this year things fell into place. It has increased the confidence I have in my ability to carry on with the work I do at Royal Bafokeng and Ball In Motion. It tells me I am on the right track and there is so much more to be done. As the saying goes, to whom much is given, much is expected,” said Rakhudu, who works as head of operations at Royal Bafokeng Jr. NBA.

It was not the first time Rakhudu had entered the Mail & Guardian initiative. Last year he was unsuccessful in his attempt to be nominated. Instead of being discouraged, Rakhudu reverted to the proverbial drawing board, did a reassessment of what went wrong and a change in fortune happened.

“I remember I applied last year, but I was not selected. What I learnt from that process was, I probably did not submit most of my work. So, to be nominated this year, I did a better job of putting together the information about my work and I applied earlier when it was advertised. It was a great process. Being among 6000 applicants and going through each stage. It was mind-blowing,” said Rakhudu, who is a co-founder of BIM along with Tshepo Tau and Cornelius Ramostho.

Rakhudu and his associate’s brainchild, BIM was conceptualised from the need to develop young players, especially girls.

After engaging with other basketball programs, BIM came to fruition in 2016.

“Ball In Motion has always been a vision of ours, since 2012. Tshepo and I started a girl’s program at Royal Bafokeng. This came from the realisation that there was no dedicated program in the entire country for girls. It was also inspired by attending Basketball Without Borders and NBA Youth Camps. My colleague Cornelius also attended camps in New York, Chicago and Canada. The turning point for the three of us was attending the Giants Of Africa program in Botswana and Basketball Without Borders program in Angola.

“While on our travels. Speaking among ourselves, we said: ‘Okay, there’s no time to waste, this is it. When we come back, we are going to put our vision in motion’. It was in September 2016 that we launched Ball In Motion and later in December of that year we launched our first camp for the top 40 girls in the Bojanala area in the North West,” said Rakhudu.

Rakhudu and his colleagues have begun reaping from the seeds sown. Recently, former Michaelhouse pupil JC Oelofse was awarded a scholarship to Western Reserve Academy in Ohio, United States.

**JC Oelofse was one of the stand out performers at the Ball In Motion camp. Picture: THEBTO**

We met him in 2018 at a national tournament where we communicated with him about his admirable basketball talent. We then invited him to a camp in March last year and later selected him for our inaugural All Africa camp at Sun City, where he was the tournament’s MVP. We proceeded to recommend him for Basketball Without Borders held in Senegal, last year . He did very well and was selected to the all-star team of that camp. He was one of the top three shooters as well. He represents what Ball In Motion is about,” said Rakhudu.

On his future in basketball, Rakhudu wants to spread his wings as far as possible and explore the avenues available in the sport.

“I try to be as versatile as possible so that I can fit in the various career paths available in basketball. If you look at the NBA, you’ll find that former players are involved in various positions, from being franchise presidents, general managers and coaches.

“For me, the pathway was through scouting. That is the reason we started Ball In Motion. I would like to be an international scout in Africa. Another career I enjoy is basketball operations. I see myself working for the league office of NBA Africa and helping them with their grassroots and business development. That is one of the reasons why I am doing a business degree so that I can improve myself,” concluded Rakhudu.

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Sithole’s tweet to Mthethwa makes the right noise

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Basketball being used for short-sighted political gain should be a thing of the past

ALL hands-on deck! That is the requirement needed for South African basketball to be a respected sport and part of the conversation as a national past-time. Anybody who has felt the magic when a basketball bounces on a hardwood or a concrete turf, more than ever, the sport needs you.

Basketball player Thabo Sithole’s chastising tweet on Sunday to current Sports, Arts and Culture minister, Nathi Mthethwa and his predecessors ended with the words ‘DO SOMETHING.’ Yes, something needs to be done about the state of basketball in this country. Whether the minister will respond accordingly to Sithole’s call to action, is a game of wait and see. But his intervention would be welcome.

As a fraternity, we can no longer sit on the bench and wait for a miracle. The mediocrity in the leadership of basketball in South Africa has gone on for far too long. Here are a few examples of the state of affairs in basketball. For two years running (2017/2018 – 2018/2019) the SRSA Eminent Person Group has classified South African basketball as dysfunctional and in 2015 online publication, Daily Maverick reported R2-million in lottery funding allocated for Basketball South Africa had grown legs.

This state of affairs points to a sport in disarray and the onus falls on the entire basketball fraternity to ensure that the sport is steered in the right direction. For that to happen, all hands need to be on deck; that includes fans, players and elected officials at various levels (district, provincial and national). We cannot stop only at words!

Secindary Pic — Thabo Sithole pleaded for intervention at the highest level. **PICTURE: THE BTO**

South Africa, like the rest of the world is in the grip of the COVID-19 pandemic and like sportscaster and former South African national team player Quintin Denyssen pointed out on this platform “the hard reset of the world is an opportunity for South African basketball to get things right”.

This time should be used to address and correct the issues affecting South African basketball. South Africa needs to be part of the conversation in basketball on the African continent and beyond. This means making our structures functional and having a coordinated calendar for our programmes, covering schools, varsities, clubs, provinces and national teams. It also means including the Basketball National League (BNL) as a partner in the rebuilding project, especially in establishing a national women’s league.

Basketball being used for short-term and political gain in South African sports should be a thing of the past. It should be used to serve present and future generations, and to celebrate our national basketball heroes who have contributed to shaping the game.

The one benefit South African basketball has in bucket loads is sharp minds, and a solid knowledge base that can be tapped into. One just has to follow South African basketball social media pages to realise how much potential and commitment there is in those circles to rebuild the structures of basketball. From those circles, the future leadership of basketball is also inherent and can be leveraged to serve in various governance positions. It may mean some individuals might have to wear more than one hat in the service of basketball. At this stage, whatever it takes!

The issues facing basketball mentioned in this article may be but a drop in the ocean, and the surface has barely been scratched on the extent of the sport’s potential in this country. In many ways, there is essentially a chicken and egg situation: basketball in South Africa has to become fully functional in order to attract the kinds of resources that are needed for it to serve the much needed developmental objective we all desire.

In closing, Thabo Sithole’s tweet to the minister made the necessary noise. The basketball fraternity has to seize the moment! Because we all want basketball to get its bounce back on South African courts.

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Love for basketball drives Bookholane

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“Give us a chance and allow us to show you what magic is”

I live my life led by a mantra and love for the game. I think the most uplifting thing I can say is, DO NOT GIVE UP! Do not give up playing. Do not give up coaching. Do not give up officiating. Do not give up on being a leader in basketball. I say this because, every other day someone will question your judgement. Someone will put a red pen on the work that you do or have done. Someone will question or discredit your decisions. Someone will call you an emotional wreck because you cried. Someone wants you to fail!

There have been many times where I thought I was in way over my head. Maybe I still think that today, but all I have done and continue to do is what drives me to do more. And I can be that emotional wreck at times, but I would not be the woman I am today without the emotions that drive me EVERY SINGLE DAY. The emotions make me want to do more. The emotions are what push me to be a part of the rebuild that is long overdue in South African basketball.

Secondary Picture — Hale Bookholane officiating during the 2018 Varsity Basketball. **Picture: THE BTO**

I definitely cannot do it alone. We need to work together. We need to come together. There is power in numbers. Power only we can unleash, and not just for our benefit, but for the benefit of the generations to come. History will judge us for not doing anything. History will judge us for giving up.

I am also a referee

Refereeing takes a toll on you, especially when everyone is waiting for you to make that one mistake.

As officials, we usually talk about limiting those mistakes to as little as none, but we all know that is an impossibility. If we are right in our decision-making, then coaches, players and fans are happy, but if we are wrong, we are blamed and accused of the worst.

And on a bad day, I will get home, cry my eyes out, send a few messages and voice notes, post a few messages on social media, and go to bed. Surprisingly, the next day I will wake up and want to be better and do better. The love I have for this game is unimaginable and probably why I keep coming back, lol! I think of basketball as the sport that saved my life, and all that I do for it, is my way of saying thank you for all that you have done for me.

Men have to pick up the fight

The one part I have tried to ignore, is the side that many females never want to talk about. The uncomfortable comments you get. The sexual advances. Having to do double the work to prove your worth and capabilities. All because you are a woman. Most of us do not talk about it. But in a time where Gender-Based Violence is at the tip of our tongues and every day you wake up to shattering tales of women and children suffering the worst imaginable violence, it would not be right to sweep this topic under the rug.

Third Picture — Hale Bookholane is calling an equal level playing field. **Picture: Supplied**

I think we as women have spoken enough. We as women have reported enough cases. We as women have been raped, abused and murdered enough.

It’s now time for the men to stand with us and fight. Enough talking. We need action!

We talk about creating enabling environments for women to flourish

There is no other enabling environment that can be created for women other than equality.

Women do not need to be treated like a special project in sport, in fact in anything. Women should be given the same opportunities as men. I mean, the same rules apply in basketball for both men and women, right?

So why deny us those opportunities? Or better yet, why delay those opportunities for us? Women are also capable. Women are also hard working. Women can also do anything they put their minds to. Give us a chance and allow us to show you what magic is.

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Window of opportunity opens for SA basketball

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THE one thing I have always enjoyed about the basketball court is that it is a great leveller, it does not accept excuses and does not care about words, promises or social stature. It doesn’t care if you have had a good or bad day. It curries no favour!

As a player, all you need to do is think back to a moment where you thought you could cheat on preparation or sneak in a late night or disrespect the game or your competition; chances are that many, many times you came off second best. The opposite end of the scale is, of course, putting in the hard work and it translating into outstanding individual and team performances. I am simplifying here: the fact remains that the hardwood or concrete has taught many players and coaches tangible lessons about hard work yielding results. This is truly one of my favourite aspects because true mastery of this game requires work in so many facets, physical-technical-psychological, and it bears a striking similarity to the balancing act one needs to attain self-mastery: the meeting of mind-body-spirit. This, within a team dynamic, is what makes this game so compelling and enjoyable.

Why is this important? I think that post COVID-19, we are going to be challenged in ways never thought of before. The hard fact is that life will not be the same, it cannot be!

Social distancing will impact the playing, technical and spectating experience for every sport, not just basketball. We can be optimistic and know that the scientific minds will have a vaccine ready in the next 18 – 24 months. Meanwhile, we will all be challenged to think of creative ways to embrace the change that’s required because ignoring it could mean increased health risks and mortality. What that will mean practically, I don’t know, but it will be a challenge requiring collective effort never seen before.

The basketball community will be tested. We all want to see the game grow to heights we have imagined it reaching since the Premier Basketball League disbanded in 1998/9, and South African basketball was sent into a free-fall that it never recovered from. We have seen some positive developments and growth in tournaments and competition at high school, tertiary, club and 3×3 levels. This year presented so much hope for most of us in the basketball fraternity.

Secondary picture to story — **Former South African basketball player Quintin Denyssen. Picture: Supplied**

The Basketball Africa League is supposed to pioneer continental competition and is the flagship tournament that has seen federations within the southern Africa region finally start to get their houses in order. Sadly, the gap between southern Africa and the rest of Africa is noticeable with Mozambique and Angola carrying zonal hopes in continental competitions. The question is, will they or any country in the region be able to compete against formidable competition from the rest of Africa? All one needs to do is look at moves made by South Sudan voting in Loul Deng as federation president, Rwanda’s investment in the game, Senegal’s strong development programmes, and a stern examination of club strengths in those respective countries, to understand that we are lagging behind.

COVID-19 has presented a viable opportunity, and I say this with hesitation and constancy, for basketball administration in South Africa to become a competent vehicle and not a swear word. This hard reset can be the biggest opportunity to get things right. We all have a role to play. Checks and balances can be put in place. Outstanding governance matters at all levels can be attended to. An opportunity presents itself for efforts to ensure that basketball is recognised by SASCOC and acknowledged when global or continental competition delegations are constructed. There will never be a window like this again.

A final question that needs answering is, what can individual members of this community do to contribute to basketball’s growth? If we truly want to see the game flourish, then active basketball community citizenry is required. We all have a torch to bear, the onus is on us to identify our role, sharpen skills needed and capitalise on the opportunity presented to do things differently. A journey anywhere starts with the first step and whatever the step, this is our challenge and I believe we can make it work.

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