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Kigali, Rwanda – August 27, 2025 – The Voice of Africa (TVOA) proudly provided on-the-ground coverage of the 21st edition of Basketball Without Borders (BWB) Africa, held from August 23–26, 2025 at Petit Stade in Kigali, Rwanda. The NBA and FIBA’s flagship development program once again brought together 60 of Africa’s top boys and girls prospects for four days of training, mentorship, and cultural exchange led by NBA and WNBA players, coaches, and executives.
Four Days of Growth On and Off the Court
Day 1 (Aug 23): Campers opened with warm-ups and transition drills, moving into skill-development stations focused on shooting mechanics, footwork, and passing under pressure. Evaluation games closed the day, with coaches emphasizing decision-making and teamwork.
Day 2 (Aug 24): Teams took to the floor for structured practices before competing in scrimmages. The coaches also joined the NBA Cares initiative, engaging with 100 elderly women and youth of the wheelchair basketball community through basketball clinics.
Day 3 (Aug 25): Morning sessions emphasized defense — closing out, help-side rotations, and communication — with instruction from Coach Charles Lee (Charlotte Hornets Head Coach). Later, the FIBA Coaches Clinic gave African coaches firsthand access to NBA coaching strategies.
Day 4 (Aug 26): The final day brought energy and competition: a three-point shootout, late-game simulations with Coach Lloyd Pierce, playoff games, and the championship. The camp closed with the BWB Africa Award Ceremony, recognizing standout performers in leadership, hustle, and skill.
Voices from the Court
Representing TVOA, Coach Fenan Atobrhan – Coach, Former Player, Advocate for Women in Basketball, and 2025 Houston Rockets Summer League Staff Member – also served as a camp coach, mentoring players on and off the court while capturing exclusive interviews with key voices.
- Clare Akamanzi, CEO of NBA Africa, praised Kigali’s role in hosting:
“Rwanda has become a hub for African basketball. Camps like this not only showcase talent but also demonstrate the unifying power of sport across borders.” - Michael Finley, NBA Kenya Country Head, reflected on the growth of African talent:
“Every year, I am amazed by the passion, skill, and discipline these young athletes bring. Basketball Without Borders gives them a platform to shine and develop into leaders both on and off the court.” - Lloyd Pierce, Lead Assistant Coach, Indiana Pacers, reflected on player growth:
“These young athletes are sponges. You can see their hunger to learn, not just the game, but leadership and discipline. That’s what makes this program so impactful.” - Tamika Catchings, WNBA Legend (Indiana Fever), highlighted representation:
“For the young girls here, it’s powerful to see women on the court coaching, competing, and leading. It tells them their dreams are possible.” - Dzaflo Larkai, Milwaukee Bucks Scout, spoke on scouting perspective:
“Every year the skill gap narrows between Africa and the rest of the world. The athleticism is unmatched, and now the fundamentals are catching up fast.” - Kita Matungulu, NBA Africa Director of Basketball Operations, emphasized holistic development:
“Our mission goes beyond basketball. Yes, these athletes sharpen their skills here, but they also learn life lessons — responsibility, teamwork, resilience. That’s what prepares them for success in sports and in life.”
Players echoed this spirit. A camper from South Sudan shared: “The drills were tough, but the coaches pushed us in the right way. I learned how to stay calm under pressure and make the right pass.”
Coaching and Learning Moments
Throughout camp, NBA coaches provided hands-on guidance:
- Charles Lee broke down defensive principles, urging players to “talk on every possession.”
- Lloyd Pierce simulated late-game situations, teaching how to manage the clock and execute under pressure.
- Marvin Williams led shooting clinics, focusing on balance and repetition.
- Tamika Catchings huddled with the girls’ teams, emphasizing confidence and leadership: “Don’t wait for someone else to speak up — you be the voice.”
- Fenan Atobrhan, representing both TVOA and women in coaching, bridged communication between players, coaches, and media. Her presence was a reminder that Africa’s basketball future includes women at every level.
Capturing the Story
TVOA’s coverage, led by Coach Fenan Atobrhan with video storytelling by Dylan Rugwiro, ensured African voices reached global audiences. Exclusive interviews, behind-the-scenes moments, and player highlights offered an authentic look at the continent’s next generation of basketball stars.
A Celebration of African Talent
BWB Africa 2025 reinforced the program’s legacy of shaping Africa’s basketball future, combining elite competition with life lessons in leadership, teamwork, and community impact.
As TVOA continues to spotlight Africa’s rising stars, our coverage of BWB Africa reflects a broader mission: connecting Africa’s stories with the world.
This work was made possible under the leadership of TVOA Sports Director, Sandy Amoako, whose vision continues to expand Africa’s presence in global sports storytelling.