BNLSA Archives | The Big Tip Off

Bingandadi talks living with lupus and returning to basketball

“THE story starts in 2023. I was doing my masters at UCT. I was the captain of the first team, and I was trying out for the Western Cape Mountaineers (BNL franchise). Then I started to notice a few changes in my body, hair loss, chronic fatigue and weight loss. It’s something I struggled with (weight loss) as I was already a lanky and scrawny guy,” explained Mutsa Bingandadi.

Things were going well for Bingandadi, and the last thing he would have expected was to be engaging in a fight for his life. He was excelling academically and on the court, but the sudden changes in his body were signs of the beginning of a lifelong battle with the autoimmune disease, lupus. A consultation with a specialist doctor confirmed as much. This was his second encounter with the virus. He first witnessed his sister bravely battle the disease, but she sadly passed away due to complications related to lupus.

“I decided to see my GP, who then referred me to a rheumatologist… Yeah, his immediate indication was ‘this is probably lupus.’ With the added context that my sister, who is now late, also had lupus… it meant it could be a genetic thing,” said the shooting guard, who holds a masters degree in project management.

The doctor’s confirmation rocked Bingandadi. As devastating as the news was, he has been fortunate enough to have a community around him, one that willed him to keep fighting.

“Initially, I was shocked because I knew what it could mean for me. The support I received from family and friends was great. Part of the reason I reached out (to The Big Tip Off) was that sports had a huge impact on my life. It provided me with a space and community that can rally around people in need,” said the former St Alban’s College pupil.

**Mutsa Bingandadi says living with lupus has taught him to be resilient. Pictures: The BTO**

Having seen his sister live with lupus, what lessons did he take from her life? “The main thing was continuing to push, living life to the fullest and maintaining discipline. It’s an autoimmune condition, where the body attacks itself, and it can snowball into something much bigger,” said Bingandadi.

In his case, it did. The 2023 USSA All-Star says the disease took an aggressive turn during his relocation to the South African capital last year, costing him a season of basketball.

“In 2025, I had another flare-up. As I was moving from Cape Town to Pretoria, things got worse and worse. I was admitted to hospital and started receiving treatment after being diagnosed with lupus again. This time it was more concrete… I suppose,” said Bingandadi.

While he reacclimates to life in Tshwane, where he last played as a schoolboy and now works as a business analyst, what changes has he had to make in his life?

“… Some lifestyle changes. And dietary changes, mostly. And also being hyper aware of what I expose myself to. It impacts the skin, and so it means lots of sunscreen and looking for shade,” said Bingandadi. “Being outside and working out is difficult because of fatigue. I also have to be vigilant as far as taking my meds. Otherwise, it’s quite manageable.”

Given his present experience, he hopes his message reaches organisations and people who can help him raise awareness about lupus. “Part of what I wanted to share was that there are also financial implications to it. I come from a good family. I am reasonably stable too. But those medical bills do pile up, and things do become difficult. So my mind is set on people who ca afford the treatment. If anyone knows any organisations or institutions that I can get in touch with for fundraising events, that would be great. I have also reached out myself, and I am waiting for replies,” said Bingandadi.

Mutsa Bingandadi lupus story 2026 — **Mutsa Bingandadi feels ready to play basketball again.**

As he fights every day for his life, Bingandadi is also fighting to make a comeback to the game he loves. Having been out for a year, he wants to test his body to see what it can handle.

“I don’t take anything for granted… Whether it’s a training session, a gym session, or a game, I am always eager to get started and enjoy the experience. It’s a privilege to be able to be on the court,” said Bingandadi. “Although I had taken a break for a year, that itch is back, and I want to see how far I can get once I start up again.”

As he takes the courageous step to return to the court, what has he learnt about himself throughout this time of his life? “Resilience. Initially, you don’t think it’s possible. There are thoughts of giving up. I have learnt to take it one day at a time. I realise how sizeable the challenge is and I am determined to push through. And I see how that just spreads throughout the rest of my life as well. It can’t dominate your mind or your actions because there are other things to do,” concluded Bingandadi.

He has found a second wind in his life. His desire, his determination to add more to the pages of his existence, is exemplary for anyone facing adversity. His story is a triumph of the human spirit.

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Dr Moussi talks retirement U-turn and BNL finals return

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Mountaineers prepared to match Suns’ veteran experience

WHEN Dr Corinne Moussi arrived in South Africa over a decade ago as a student, the idea of becoming a superstar basketball player in the country was unfathomable to her. As she engaged in the sport, a competitive flame lit in her and a season of eye opening experiences and great reward would unfold.

When Dr Moussi narrates her journey into basketball, which started in Bamenda, Cameroon, you learn that the sport was not her first love. That honour belonged to to tennis. She describes her first encounter with basketball as accidental and upon the first, second and third bounce she realised she had a good feel for the game. From then, she has never stopped bouncing the ball.

“I always say basketball was an accident. Tennis was my the sport for me. My dad also enrolled me at a tennis academy. During the holidays, I would solely focus on tennis,” said Belgium-born shooting guard during an interview with The Big Tip Off. “I attended an all-girls school and physical education or sports was not encouraged. But once upon a time in high school, we had a basketball bouncing session. I saw then that my eye and hand coordination were perfect.

“I said to myself, ‘okay, there is something here’. So, I played occasionally when that session was available.”

Dr Corinne Moussi has started playing basketball in Bamenda, Cameroon — **Dr Corinne Moussi has achieved individual and team success in the game. Pictures: The BTO**

Being a part of the Maties revolution

When she journeyed to South Africa to pursue her studies at Stellenbosch University (SU), Dr Moussi’s arrival was in tandem with the institution’s embrace of basketball. It was a situation that worked well for her as she trained under the tutelage of coaches trying to build the basketball program of the institution.

“I have to give kudos to my former coach Aggrey Ofula. He did his best while he was there,” said Dr Moussi, who holds a PhD in Political Science from SU. When coach Kimathi (Toboti) and coach Masie (Ntlali) arrived, things began to change. The program became a high-performance code with more resources and a change in focus.

“Aside from that, coach Kim is the kind of coach that pushes you. I grew a lot under him, and like coach Nataly (September), he gave me the leeway to be myself on the court. I could make mistakes and eventually become the best version of myself.”

The basketball revolution at Maties sparked Dr Moussi’s competitive edge. It also led to her achieving individual success at the 2018 University Sports South Africa (USSA) tournament.

“We (Maties) seldom qualified for USSAs because the competition was tough. Coach Kim decided that we must compete outside the Western Cape. The Ashraaf (Loedwky) tournament was my first competition, and I was twice an All-Star at that tournament,” said Dr Moussi. I have never competed against Gauteng teams. They bring toughness that I had not experienced before. It certainly fuelled my competitive spirit.

“The USSA is a tournament on a national scale. In my first competition, I got my first All-Star award. It made me realise I enjoy competing. When I look at those awards today, I blush because I have always played, but there was no reward. So, the 2018 award in particular, was fulfilling.”

Scaling new heights with the Mountaineers

Dr Moussi’s cup of success continued to flow when she joined Women’s National Basketball League (WBNL) franchise, Western Cape Mountaineers. The Mountaineers, who joined the four-year-old WBNL a year (2021) after its formation, proved a formidable outfit.

Last year, the Mountaineers lived up to expectations and were crowned league champions after beating Egoli Magic in the final. The lightning quick guard also took the MVP award. Despite the winning season, Moussi surprisingly says her debut season was her best.

“It was a ‘finally’ moment. We have been waiting, and finally, we have it. It was exciting and also my best season so far. Not only for me, the players we had. We had fun on and off the court,” said Dr Moussi reflecting on their first season. “Our approach was not business-like. We had fun and made it to the final, but we lost. That year was my best, and I think it was the same for my teammates.”

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The championship season saw the Western Cape team lock in, and with heightened ambition, Moussi says their preparation was intense.

“I think 2022 was a cherry on the cake because of how we got ready. The preparation was intense. We trained almost every weekend for three to four hours. We put in the work,” said Dr Moussi. “Everyone knew we sacrificed a lot, so we must reward ourselves. So winning the championship, I can tell you we worked. We did not just wake up and decide to wing it. So, knowing the work we put in, we can look back with gratitude for those sacrifices.”

She also reflected on her MVP award of that season: “Winning the WBNL Most Valuable Player award was not just a personal triumph but also a testament to the enduring power of determination and the pursuit of excellence. The award was not solely mine, but it is dedicated to my family, friends, teammates, and coaches who supported me throughout my basketball journey.”

The decision to retire and U-turn

Following that title win with the Mountaineers, Moussi had temporarily called time on her career. She stated to the Full Court Press that the team management’s lack of acknowledgement for their success disappointed her.

“I think that week was mentally taxing. I want to accentuate the mental health component when it comes to basketball. To be put in that position was something I was not used to. Mentally, it took it’s on me,” said Dr Moussi. “So one of the reasons I took that decision at the time was for my mental health. Secondly, to win the trophy that we sacrificed a lot for. We won it for the province, and I felt, ‘let’s recognise that’.

“So, it was sad when it did not happen. But by taking a break, going back home and putting things into perspective, I realised this is a platform I want to compete in. There will be a few hiccups here and there, but this a platform I want enjoy for the time I still have it.”

Second final run with the Mountaineers

The Mountaineers captain and her teammates are heading to their second WBNL final after steamrolling past inaugural champions Egoli Magic last Sunday.

Dr Corinne Moussi and team coach Nataly September. — **Dr Corinne Moussi says coach Nataly September has allowed her freedom to express herself on the court.**

Ahead of Sunday’s final against season two champions, Tshwane Suns, Moussi spoke about her evolution as a player.

“This season, I thoroughly enjoy playing defence. I did not know that I could be a thief. I enjoy doing money heists (stealing the ball),” said Moussi, who has averaged 20 points per game this season. “Offence is okay. Somedays, it is okay, and on others, it’s not. I believe this season my defence has been exceptional.”

To put her defensive work into perspective, Moussi, who has been a defensive juggernaut, has averaged 6.3 steals per game and 11 rebounds per game. This season 66 of her boards came at the defensive end.

The veteran player sets the tone for her team at both ends of the floor, and it’s something she acknowledges.

“As captain, you have to lead by example. Intentionally or unintentionally, it’s a role I have accepted. It’s not easy because sometimes you can be off. If that is the case, it means the team is off too,” said Dr Moussi.

Looking at the final, Dr Moussi did not give a definite answer on whether they will defend their crown. She did, however, say what it would take to retain it.

“When I look at the Suns, they have veteran experience. You can’t take that away from them. We also have our experience. So, I think we can match them,” concluded Dr Moussi match them.

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Reece ‘The Beast’ ready to re-establish himself

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FOR a couple of months, Reece ‘The Beast’ Prinsloo believed injury had brought a sad end to his magnificent playing career.

At the end of October last year, the decorated forward posted a heartfelt goodbye message to basketball on social media. He was thankful for the memories the game had given him. He also paid homage to the coaches who had afforded him the chance to shine at national team and varsity level.

This was the end, so he thought. It seemed the decision for Prinsloo, who initially retired due to a vertebrae injury, was premature.

The Egoli Magic player and four-time Basketball National League (BNL) champion, speaking via Zoom a week ago, said making the call to end his career was based on his emotional state.

“I think I will be playing this year. I went for a second opinion and will be back in the game soon,” said Prinsloo who explained the nature of the injury. “During a (BNL match) against the Tshwane Suns, I landed awkwardly, and my discs were out of place. It was a tough time having to announce my retirement, but now with hindsight, I realise it was a premature and emotional decision.”

Third Pic — Reece Prinsloo with teammates Risto Pasipamire and Bandile Nsele. Pics: The BTO

Following careful reflection and a positive discussion with his wife-to-be, the Gqeberha-born Prinsloo is raring to get back on the court.

“I now have a different view of things. After putting aside all the emotions, I realised: ‘hey, you are 30-years-old. There are guys who are the same age and are at their peak. Some guys are older and in their decline. They all have one thing in common. They are still playing the game’. So it was premature of me to post that message (on social media about my retirement),” said the former Grey PE pupil. “My fiancée also still wants to see me play. She told me she had never seen me play. Once I started getting better, I wanted to start running again. I feel like my old self. It’s just about getting back on the court and getting that first rebound.”

When discussing the injury affected him, Prinsloo, a former South African youth international, felt the opportunity to end things on his terms had escaped.

“A lot of things went through my mind. I knew the time would come when I had to retire from the game, but not like this. Getting the news from the doctor, I cried and asked: why Lord, why? Why now? I still have a lot to give as a player. There were just a lot of questions,” said Prinsloo, a three-time University Sport South Africa (USSA) champion with the Vaal University of Technology.

With Prinsloo set to hit the court, his first port of call is a possible return to Mozambique, where he will have the opportunity to reunite with Ferroviario de Nacala.

“I might go to Mozambique either at the end of February or the beginning of March. They called me to find out if I would be available to play in the Mozambique league. There is a light at the end of the tunnel,” said Prinsloo, who described his experience when he first played in the Southern African country.

“They have a physical approach to the game, but there is also something different about Mozambican basketball. It’s the fans! The fans love basketball, and they love their teams to bits. It’s beautiful to witness.”

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The former Soweto Panthers player looks forward to his potential return to Mozambique, where the game is of a high standard. While Prinsloo is eager to put his body on the line against the best players, he notes there will be butterflies in his first game.

“There are a lot of nerves and excitement as well. There is pressure because playing in Mozambique would mean I am re-establishing myself. Also, in South Africa in the JBL, I want to do the same when I play for my team, MBB,” said Prinsloo.

On the South African game, Prinsloo feels the state of basketball is lamentable. It is well-documented that South African basketball administrators have, for the most part, treated players poorly, especially the BNL.

Prinsloo, who won three straight league titles with the Egoli Magic acknowledged the league preys on the desperation of players. The league has also never taken kindly to criticism.

“What has been said before (about the league) is true. I also stand by those players who have spoken out in the past. The league has lost a lot of great quality players. Probably the best players in the country,” said Prinsloo, whose love for the game has seen him remain in the BNL. “I would say I’m still playing because of passion. That is why I am still playing in the league. It’s the passion that’s kept me playing in the BNL. The quotes and statements made in the past (about the BNL) are not off the mark. The situation is probably the same today, where some players are still misled in signing of their contracts.”

Prinsloo also added: “The league was also happy to put poor quality players on TV, just for the sake of having an operational league.”

According to Prinsloo, a solution would be for players to show a more united front and be more knowledgeable concerning matters of this nature.

“There is only one answer for that, education! Getting educated about this kind of (contractual) issue is imperative. I know it’s hard to access education on the business side of basketball. There are problems like funding and players coming from hard circumstances,” said Prinsloo, who has played in the BNL since 2013.

Focusing on his career so far, Prinsloo is one of the most accomplished players in the BNL. His resume is laden with winner medals from his time with the Panthers to his current team Egoli.

“Winning the title with Panthers was great and I was content. Then I joined Egoli in 2019 and we went on to win four championship runs… it was spectacular! It just rolls nicely off the tongue,” said Prinsloo, who holds the distinct privilege of being the first player to notch a triple-double in the BNL.

Prinsloo has had the honour of representing South Africa at the highest level. Some of his best moments in the national team involved being mentored by senior player, Lindokuhle Sibankulu. “Getting to rub shoulders with Lindo Sibankulu from KZN, was one of my best moments. He was my personal mentor when I came to the national team as rookie,” said Prinsloo.

Reflecting on his best game in the green and gold, Prinsloo spoke fondly of the 2015 season of the All Africa Games qualifiers in Zimbabwe. “My best game was against Zimbabwe where I scored 17 points and 15 rebounds. We lost that game and the opportunity to qualify. I think it was also the first time I ever cried in a game.”

The game has brought a lot of joy and tears for Prinsloo. After briefly experiencing what it feels like to have basketball taken away from him, he now has a second chance. There will be questions about his health and only his mind and body will provide the answers. Only time can tell if he will be able to end things on his own terms.

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Let us have the uncomfortable conversations

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“A couple of spin moves and an elbow to my jaw, quickly put me in my place”

I used to dream of being a Protea cricketer alongside Makhaya Ntini and Graeme Smith. Basketball had never even crossed my mind until I trialled for it in grade 8. It’s comical to think that the game has become such a large part of my life when I did not even get selected for a team at the trials, but since that experience, I have been hooked. I put a hoop up in my driveway and stayed glued to ESPN (when DSTV still had channel 230), studying NBA highlights and re-enacting them on the driveway. Since those days the game has gifted me constant challenges, experiences, life lessons, teammates that turned into brothers, and important figures in my life. It has and will continue to be a constant in my life.

Finding my feet
Thankfully after my grade 8 trials, I found my feet and the love for the game through a welcomed growth spurt and grooming from two of my first great coaches, Chris Kaniki and Mpumi Ramatsoga. I enjoyed my high school career. Pure love for the game and brotherhood in the team fuelled my passion and made my decision to continue playing after I matriculated, a no-brainer.

Third Picture — Ludwig Gerdes honed his skills further at UP-Tuks. **Pictures: The BTO**

School of hard knocks
I played my university basketball at UP-Tuks. I joined the team in 2013, which can only be described as an overwhelming experience. I was a rookie in a team filled with accomplished and experienced players; Tichifara Mabiza, Dumisani Moyo, Kevin Manganye and coached by South African basketball legend, Neo Mothiba. I was humbled as a cocky high school player very early in my university career; a couple of baseline spin moves by Kagiso Ngoetjana and an elbow to the jaw by Mlungisi Long Shongwe quickly put me in my place and made me realise the work I still needed to do.

A few years down the line and a few injuries behind me, I can say I enjoyed my varsity career. I played five USSA tournaments, two Varsity Basketball tournaments (finals appearance in 2019), won a bronze medal at the 2016 CUCSA Games in Bulawayo and a gold medal in the 2018 CUCSA Games in Gaborone.

I walk away from UP-Tuks having been moulded by phenomenal leaders and coaches; Tich Mabiza, Neo Mothiba, Danny Molothane and George Makena, who played significant roles in my growth as a player and young man.

My Journey into the BNL
Andile Hlophe came up to me after a Friday Night Lights game at Wits and told me to come and trial for the Mpumalanga Rhinos, which eventually led to my debut in the Basketball National League (BNL). It was again another humbling experience but Andile showed consistent faith in me and this confidence in me, helped to elevate my game.

The following year I signed with three-time BNL champions, Tshwane Suns, a team I had been following since the inception of the league in 2013. I was honoured to wear the same kit once worn by Neo Mothiba, Allen Danga, Tich Mabiza, Larry Jackson and Mlungisi Shongwe; men I saw as absolute basketball warriors. I played a minute role in the 2017 BNL championship, but it taught me so much about a winning culture and how much it takes to win at that level. These are lessons I will put to good use in the coming years. I do feel as if my professional career is yet to explode and that my best basketball is yet to come. With new opportunities such as the Basketball Africa League (BAL) coming about, I hope to peak at the right time.

Ludwig Gerdes in action for three-time BNL champions Tshwane Suns.

Stepping out of my comfort zone
I have missed the game during the COVID-19 pandemic, but it has understandably had to take a backseat. Also, more emphasis has been placed on social injustices (#BlackLivesMatter and gender-based violence) happening locally and abroad. I am realising more and more my privileged position in society. As a white male, I socially start every game, up 20 points. I can’t pretend to fully understand what those affected by these injustices go through. I may not have any immediate solutions to the injustices. However, I am opening my eyes, being more aware and learning from those that experience the injustices. I am listening to those who are providing possible solutions so that I can play my part. I would suggest that anyone who holds a position similar to mine does the same. Let us have the uncomfortable conversations and let us not hide in our comfort and privilege.

To sum up my basketball journey; my best days are ahead of me, my best game is ahead of me, my best season is ahead of me, and I want to share the platform.

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Vincent Ntunja: More than a basketball player

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BEING an athlete means attention is drawn to you and while some in the sports arena bask in that limelight, others use their platform as a vehicle for social activism. Western Cape Mountaineers captain and point guard Vincent Ntunja fulfils the latter criteria.

Ntunja’s basketball career has earned him national team colours. It has led to him meeting arguably, the game’s greatest player, Michael Jordan at his training camp. These are milestones the Gugulethu-born player does not take lightly.

Ntunja, a director of non-profit organisation, African Grassroots Hoops, has used his privileged position to help children with special needs learn how to play basketball; and to highlight the issue of gender-based violence in the country, a problem the Mountaineers captain believes basketball should not be immune from.

“I have played junior national team basketball and participated in two Afrobasket competitions. I have travelled the world and met Michael Jordan. These are things I don’t take for granted. It’s no use bragging about a court being named after me and my other achievements, if I don’t use them to impact my teammates and my community,” said Ntunja after his team’s win over the North West Eagles at the Wembley Stadium in Johannesburg, last Saturday.

“One of my passions is grassroots development. I coach behaviourally challenged kids to play basketball and help them to become leaders. I also coach girls and have discussions with them about what it means to be a female in our country. If you have followed the news, you will have seen the stories about gender-based violence happening in the country. As a basketball community, we have to ask ourselves what we can do to be part of the solution” said Ntunja, who also works as a model and radio host.

**Vincent Ntunja in action for the Mountaineers in the BNL. Picture: The BTO**

Rather than talk about the critical issues on social media, Ntunja believes it is best to be active in addressing these matters of importance, something he does daily.

The 38-year-old Ntunja stressed that his work is geared towards helping young people avoid the social trappings of life.

“I am not one to write on social media platforms for the likes and comments and then think that I have done something. I am in the office from Monday to Friday, planning and thinking about impact and how to get more involved in schools. We are trying to help develop a new mentality, where we tell kids they don’t have to be gangsters to be successful or stand on the street corners and think that makes them cool. They don’t have to chase Maseratis. Take the long route!” said Ntunja.

The former Cape Peninsula University of Technology student explained his life’s mantra and how he uses it to help young people.

“I always instil the three basic D’s of success: dedication, determination and discipline in the young minds I mentor so one day when I am not here, the legacy continues,” said Ntunja who holds a Masters in Sports Tourism.

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On the court, Ntunja’s team sits second on the log, but their aim is a top four finish in this season’s BNL. With a 5-2 record after their 66-63 victory over the Eagles, the Mountaineers still have some work to do before sealing their spot.

“We do have talent that can lead us to the top four. So far, we are not playing our best basketball, but we are managing to win games. That is a plus for us. Despite the two losses, we have five wins. We are closer to where we want to be,” said Ntunja.

“The captaincy doesn’t start on the court. It starts from Cape Town and how we prepare. Are we arriving on time for flights? Are we sleeping early the night before games? Do we take care of our bodies? Because it will all show on the court. Those are very important things. Drawing from my experience, I believe this is how we best prepare to reach our goal,” concluded Ntunja.

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Veteran Banza electrifying Mpumalanga Rhinos

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JOHNNY Banza is a stand-out personality for the BNL franchise, Mpumalanga Rhinos. He is the type of player who brings energy, passion and leadership to this young team that made the playoffs last season and hopes to go a step further this year by making the final four.

Banza’s character traits have been a useful tool for the Rhinos. Team coach, Tutu Gama elaborated on why the Democratic Republic of Congo-born forward’s characteristics led to him being appointed captain of the team.

“He is my captain. I chose him because I like his intensity. The guy is from the DRC and is a beast who is very hard to box out. He uses his physique to his advantage, and towards the end he was the only one scoring,” said Gama, referring to the forward’s performance in the Rhinos’ 76-68 victory against the Panthers.

Banza, who is doing his Masters in Electrical Engineering at Vaal University of Technology, acknowledges his approach to the game, how his electric on-court persona, and style of play impacts positively for the Rhinos. The 32-year-old also believes it was his brashness and physicality that helped to seal the victory over the Panthers.

“That’s in me! Once I’m on the court, I want to leave it all there. It’s meaningless if you don’t. I am the captain, the oldest in the team, and have to lead by example. I have to display the right kind of energy for the young players,” said Banza, who dropped 14 points and crashed 10 boards against the Panthers.

Banza always tries to get the upper-hand against any opponent at both ends of the paint area. He uses his physicality and a bit of verbal jibing to take the opposing player off their game – something that worked well against the Panthers.

**Rhinos captain Johnny Banza and his team have set their sights on a final-four finish in this year’s BNL. Picture: THE BTO**

“The first thing for me is defence. It’s either you don’t score or I get the ball. I play defence and trash-talk to get the opponent frustrated. On offence, I bring the energy,” said Banza, who acknowledges that he is part of a dying breed of forwards.

“The new way of playing basketball is not about the big guy posting down low. The big guy can shoot outside and can drive in. We are trying to adjust to the new FIBA basketball.”

Reflecting on the match against the Panthers, Banza’s team had a strangle hold in the first three quarters of the game. When the Mpumalanga franchise momentarily loosened their grip in the fourth quarter, the Panthers clawed their way back. Reflecting on the Panthers’ quick fight-back and how the Rhinos regrouped to regain the lead, Banza says his team never once wavered in their commitment.

“It’s a game of basketball. There is a time when everything is working and when it doesn’t go your way. We had a very tough third quarter where nothing was working on both offence and even defence, and so we tried to adjust in the fourth quarter. We saw the mistakes, quickly applied the strategy the coach came up with, and won the game,” said Banza, who is in his fourth season with the Rhinos.

The Rhinos participated in the 2013 inaugural final of the BNL, but after that, they had a tough couple of seasons until last year when they made the playoffs. Banza believes the team, who have a 4-1 win-loss record this season, can reach the final four, an ambition highlighted by the team’s coach earlier.

“We are taking it one game at a time. The aim is to make it to the top four, but we have to get to the quarter-finals first,” said Banza, who believes they have a team capable of reaching their goal.

“I trust my teammates, coach and management. We have a young squad and some experienced players. We have energy. The team has talented players who play varsity basketball. I trust them and believe we are going to do great things this season,” concluded Banza.

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