VBL - The Big Tip Off

Ngenzahayo, Urunani chase VBL title No18 and BAL dream

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sibanyoni’s stock rises after remarkable season in Burundi

Embracing the Burundian Spirit

The move to Urunani for Sibanyoni marked a significant chapter in his career, challenging him to adapt to new playing conditions and cultural dynamics. “It was a new era in my career,” said Sibanyoni.

**Nkosinathi Sibanyoni (44) says the fans are the heartbeat of the VBL. Pictures: Urunani Basketball Club**

Also, the transition from indoor facilities in Johannesburg to the outdoor courts of Burundi presented not just a change in environment but a fresh perspective on the game. The outdoor games, characterized by their physicality and unpredictability, required a level of resilience that pushed him beyond his limits.

One of the advantages of his time in Burundi was the access to practice facilities, which significantly contributed to his growth as a player. Something he expressed gratitude for. “Being here has given me access to a facility where I can simply go and work out. There’s a driver I can call whenever I need. So I feel like it has helped a lot, and my game has improved significantly,” said Sibanyoni.

Adapting to a new culture came with a challenge here and there, including language barriers with his French and Swahili-speaking teammates. Yet, Sibanyoni found solace in the universal language of basketball.

“Basketball has its own language… Whatever I say on the court, my teammates can simply understand,” he remarked.

The Heartbeat of Burundian Basketball

One of the most striking aspects of playing in Burundi has been the overwhelming support from the local fans. The atmosphere during games is electric, filled with chants and songs that resonate with the deep-rooted love for basketball. Sibanyoni noted, “They’re hyped up and they’re there each and every day whenever we are playing. They’re not just there quietly; they’re singing and making a lot of noise.”

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This passion is remarkable, considering the economic challenges many fans face. “You can tell that some people are just struggling, but they can still make it (on game day),” said the South African international.

On the basketball court – Sibanyoni and Urunani had a remarkable season, winning a thrilling seven-game playoff series in the VBL against Dynamo Basketball Club on Sunday.

Just before the playoffs, Sibanyoni showed why he is one of the best board crashers on the continent by setting the in-game rebounding record (23) vs Remesha during the VBL regular season.

“Setting that (rebounding) record was never my aim. But I knew it could happen,” said the 2021 BNLSA MVP. “I am just out here working hard… I am using my God-given talent to leave my mark wherever I play.”

Urunani initially led the series 3-1, and many anticipated they would close it out. Swiftly! In that game four victory, Sibanyoni also delivered a 20-rebound performance. However, Dynamo ensured it would be a final for the ages. Dynamo’s back-to-back victories – an 82-76 win in Game 5 and an impressive 92-84 triumph in Game 6. The later game saw Sibanyoni’s former Cape Town Tigers teammate Samkelo Cele drop 28 points to force a game 7.

As the two teams prepared for this do-or-die Game 7, Sibanyoni reflected on their strategy, saying, “The plan was to win the series 4-0. It’s never happened before (in the VBL) for a team to get swept in the playoffs or the final.”

Along with his first VBL title, Sibanyoni also captured the Defensive Player of The Year Award. Sibanyoni says the DPOY trophy is a testament to his ability to step out of his “comfort zone” and be successful.

“Being the defensive player of the year in the VBL is great. It shows I can play different roles in any team. It was my first time out here and I was able to deliver outside of my comfort zone,” said Sibanyoni.

**Nkosinathi Sibanyoni has had an amazing season in Burundi’s VBL.**

The Journey Ahead

Sibanyoni’s season in Burundi has come to a memorable close – he is turning his attention to the future. Whether he returns to South Africa for the Road to BAL season or pursues new opportunities, his time in Burundi has shaped him. “It all depends on which offer I get. And which offer I am satisfied with,” he shared. He also expressed his desire to take a break and reconnect with his roots. “I need to be home at least for a week or two.”

Reflecting on his journey, Nkosinathi Sibanyoni embodies the spirit of growth, resilience, and community that defines basketball in Burundi. His experiences highlight his evolution as a player and emphasize the powerful connections that can be forged through sport.

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