 |
| NBA and FIBA |
The NBA and FIBA are bringing the 21st Basketball Without Borders (BWB) Africa camp to Kigali, Rwanda, from August 23–26, 2025, marking the program’s first appearance in East Africa. The four-day event will assemble 60 of the top high-school-age boys and girls from 21 African countries, including two standout prospects from NBA Academy Africa.
The camp provides a unique platform for young talent to develop on and off the court while showcasing Africa’s growing basketball potential on the international stage.
Coaching and Leadership Lineup
The camp will be led by Hall of Famer Tamika Catchings, alongside former NBA stars Kerry Kittles and Marvin Williams. NBA coaches including Charles Lee (Hornets), Lloyd Pierce (Pacers), and Micah Nori (Timberwolves) will provide hands-on training.
Senior NBA executives, such as Luca Desta (Jazz), Patrick Engelbrecht (Raptors), and Prosper Karangwa (76ers), will serve as camp directors, ensuring the program combines elite basketball instruction with life skills mentorship.
On-Court Training and Competitions
Over the course of four days, campers will participate in:
-
Intensive basketball drills to improve fundamentals.
-
Three-point shooting contests and 5-on-5 games to showcase skill and teamwork.
-
Leadership and life-skills workshops focused on personal growth, teamwork, and discipline.
Standout participants will be recognized with awards such as the Kim Bohuny Camp MVP and the Patrick Baumann Sportsmanship Award, celebrating both talent and character.
Community Engagement and Off-Court Activities
BWB Africa emphasizes community involvement alongside athletic development. Off-court programming includes:
-
A wheelchair basketball clinic, promoting inclusivity.
-
Community health outreach in partnership with Shooting Touch.
-
A “Her Time to Play” workshop, designed to empower and inspire female athletes across the continent.
Legacy of Basketball Without Borders Africa
Since its launch in 2003, BWB Africa has become a springboard for aspiring basketball players, producing 14 NBA and WNBA draftees, including Joel Embiid and Pascal Siakam. The program has impacted more than 4,600 young athletes worldwide, providing skills, mentorship, and opportunities that extend beyond the court.
The Kigali camp underscores the NBA and FIBA’s commitment to growing basketball in East Africa and nurturing the next generation of global basketball talent. By combining elite coaching, mentorship, and community engagement, BWB Africa continues to shape both the athletic and personal development of young players across the continent.
Looking Ahead
As the camp gets underway, all eyes will be on the promising athletes who could become Africa’s next stars in the NBA, WNBA, or professional leagues worldwide. Beyond competition, the camp will also strengthen regional connections, promote sportsmanship, and inspire young athletes to pursue their dreams both on and off the court.
Basketball Without Borders Africa in Kigali represents another milestone in the NBA’s ongoing efforts to expand basketball’s reach, cultivate young talent, and foster leadership and community engagement across the continent.
0 Comments