"I am a leader. I am a giant,” the basketball players chanted repeatedly.
The recites echoed throughout the arena a few minutes following Masai Ujiri's reprimand of the campers who had departed the court before the official conclusion of their last day of basketball. The clock had struck 10pm last night, on a Friday, signifying the culmination of the weeklong basketball festival with the All Stars game. In Kigali city, the temperature hovered around 23 degrees, striking a pleasant balance between warmth and coolness, rendering it a perfect setting for outdoor activities.
"Remember the initial day of camp when all of you arrived, full of energy, shouting and leaping around? Now, you want to leave and act as you please. Life doesn’t function that way. Come Monday, the harsh truths of reality await – the challenges you must confront once more. Will you maintain this behavior?” These were Ujiri's words. If you haven't been tracking the festival's developments from the outset, his statements might appear puzzling.
The gathering of more than 200 people included players from 16 African countries: Botswana, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, DR Congo, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Kenya, Mali, Morocco, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, Somalia, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda. Guests mainly consisted of sponsors' staff, media personnel, and VIPs.
Snacks and beverages were provided to attendees on a separate section beside the court. Festival merchandise, including baseball caps, t-shirts, hoodies, and jerseys, was displayed towards the rear. Photojournalists and videographers positioned themselves at various demarcated points around the court.
Up until now, I must confess, I had never seen an entire basketball match. Football is more my thing — a pastime cultivated during my childhood when many adults in my family often swapped Cartoon Network for Supersport. I grew accustomed to it and eventually started enjoying it. Perhaps this is why I anticipated an atmosphere of intense competition yesterday. But Giants of Africa presents a remarkably accessible rendition of a competitive sport like basketball.
The events that unfolded in the arena last evening align with the narratives that we are now embracing in sports – narratives that align with Giants of Africa's core principles. Above all, these principles underscore the capacity of sports to embolden African youth to dream ambitiously and to conquer challenges. They also exemplify the art of forging enduring connections in a simplified manner.
This could be the reason why Ujiri, acknowledging the delicate nature of the connection among players, encouraged the campers not to abandon the cause. Speaking to the campers as they regrouped during the closing moments of the evening, he referred to the "minor misstep" as a factor that impacts the advancement of our progress as Africans. "This is the issue at hand. Had he (Precious Achiuwa) left the camp in that manner, he might not have become an NBA player. Every single aspect counts."
Less than three-quarters of an hour prior to this moment, Achiuwa, a Nigerian basketball player who now belongs to the Toronto Raptors, recounted the influence of his time as a camper in Giants of Africa many years ago. "I was possibly the youngest participant at a Giants of Africa camp in Lagos, Nigeria, a very long time ago," he said, adding, "I didn't think much of it at the time, but now, being in this position and having the chance to come here and observe all the campers in the same position I once was, it's truly remarkable. I 110 percent agree with everything he (Ujiri) said about Africa's abundance of talent. It's undeniably present. We have so much talent."
Giants of Africa fundamentally becomes a space where one can experience the sensation of having evolved into a basketball alumnus. It holds an allure, particularly for those emerging from bustling urban hubs saturated with culture, grandeur, and prominent sporting events. In this environment, all those external trappings are essentially removed, and you're prompted to contemplate the considerable distance you've traversed on your journey.
The festival also illustrates how the campers use sports as a means to foster cross-cultural understanding, cultivate self-assurance, hone abilities — and eventually ascend to become standout athletes within a league (the NBA) where African players like Cameroon's Joel Embiid shine as MVP.
As the tournament draws to a close, we are afforded a glimpse into the evolution underway. It becomes apparent that the title of Most Improved female player is claimed by someone from Mali, while the male counterpart comes from Senegal. The accolades for the most outstanding defensive players are bestowed upon a female athlete from Cameroon and a male basketball player from Senegal. In the category of MVP (Most Valued Player), the distinction is awarded to a Malian in the female segment, while a Cameroonian secures the same honor in the male segment. Subsequently, champions (Senegal for the males and Mali for the females) and runners-up (Cameroon for both males and females) are presented with medals and trophies.
"GIANTS OF AFRICA USES BASKETBALL AS A TOOL TO EMPOWER AFRICAN YOUTH TO DREAM BIG.”
Yesterday afternoon, I read those words on a signboard message at the BK Arena, just before the commencement of the All Stars game. Throughout the past week, the festival has significantly contributed to imbuing this venue with what is arguably the most profound and diverse cultural experiences in Kigali. Capitalizing on this moment, I seized the chance to pose a few questions to the basketball camp participants hailing from various corners of Africa, embarking on their quest to "dream big.” These questions were aimed at eliciting insights into their respective cultures.
What is something about your country that we cannot find on Google?
"When it comes to Google searches about Botswana, the common associations are often related to its wildlife and diamond mining. But there's an aspect that tends to remain in the background: the farmers. What isn't really highlighted is the large amount of land in Botswana that is used by families, not necessarily for commercial purposes, but rather for personal sustenance – it's land we use for ourselves.”
Atang Lekolwane, 18, Botswana
How different is your country from Rwanda?
"Rwanda has higher levels of discipline and organization. The people are welcoming, and the women are beautiful.”
Mouhamed Kane, 19, Senegal
How different is your country from Rwanda?
"In Ivory Coast, our nature leans towards being festive and lively, whereas in Rwanda, the atmosphere tends to be more subdued. Ivorians like partying.”
Diaby Mariam Nadia, 19, Ivory Coast
Debunk stereotypes about your country?
"There's a common perception that Ugandans are rugged, yet in reality, we don't necessarily fit that tough image. In fact, we're quite friendly people. Some groups, like the Chiga, may have a reputation for being tough, but the Baganda, despite their tough exterior, are actually open and approachable. The outward appearance might seem rugged, but it doesn't accurately reflect their nature.”
Kisakye Mathew, 17, Uganda
"The stereotype people hold about Ugandans often involves considering us as ‘uncivilized,’ but this perception is deeply flawed. Many actions that might be observed stem from the challenges of life, which is a common aspect worldwide. We are brought up with strong values and high standards.”
Ola Samuel, 19, Uganda
Debunk stereotypes about your country?
"People think that Congolese are only good at dancing. In reality, we possess a multitude of talents, including sports. We can proudly point to athletes like Serge Ibaka, internationally renowned for their basketball prowess, as well as other notable figures like Bismack Biyombo. Our accomplishments span beyond basketball; we have accomplished people making significant contributions in various fields. So, to those who believe that dancing is our sole forte, I want to say that this perception is inaccurate, as we excel in numerous domains.”
Nice Menga, 19, DR Congo
What is the best time of year to visit your country?
"The best time to visit Nigeria is during the December period. It's advisable to avoid coming when we don't experience Harmattan, as the heat becomes quite intense. In December, temperatures are more moderate. Additionally, during the holiday season, the country is bustling with activity. Many members of the diaspora return, infusing the country with a vibrant atmosphere.”
Eze Bright Chinecherem, 16, Nigeria
The era of competitiveness has passed, as the players convene for an enjoyable weekend. The festival presented a unique opportunity for players to engage in spirited matches within a laid-back atmosphere. For many, or perhaps the majority, the cultural interactions experienced at Giants of Africa are fulfilling in themselves.