NBA Africa Launches Coaches Training Program in Kenya

A two-day training session for 20 junior basketball coaches has wrapped up at the newly constructed Kenya Academy of Sports Basketball courts in Kasarani. This initiative is part of a broader collaboration between NBA Africa and the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports, aimed at advancing coaching skills, player development, and elite training, as well as enhancing basketball facilities in Kenya.

NBA Africa, operating through its Kenya office, has kicked off this initiative by rehabilitating the courts at Kasarani and conducting a two-day workshop for coaches. The training was led by Junior NBA coaches’ instructor, O’Karo Akamune.

Michael Finley, the Kenya Country Lead for NBA Africa, emphasized the importance of this training in the broader context of basketball development in the country. “We’ve enlisted coaches with the assistance of the Red Cross and our partners AFD. Coaches are crucial to the growth of basketball in Kenya. They form the foundation upon which the sport will evolve,” he said. “These young men and women will not only help run this program but will also play a pivotal role in future initiatives and in mentoring other coaches across the nation. This is just the beginning.”

Kita Matungulu, the NBA Africa Director of Basketball Operations, highlighted the organization’s goal of expanding basketball’s reach in Kenya. He noted that while many schools in Kenya have basic basketball courts, the potential of these facilities remains underutilized. The NBA aims to work with local stakeholders to create a robust foundation for basketball, ensuring that the sport thrives in Kenya, which is one of Africa’s leading economies.

“When we hosted Basketball Without Borders over the years, we noticed emerging talent from Kenya that has gone on to succeed. We believe that with consistent programs, ongoing activities, and high-level coaching, Kenya’s basketball can reach new heights and become a dominant force in Africa,” Kita explained.

The NBA’s focus extends beyond just training; they are also keen on establishing a comprehensive scouting program to help talented players advance to the next level. Additionally, they aim to improve the skills of Kenyan players, who are naturally athletic but may lack technical training.

Kita also pointed out that the journey to success in basketball is a gradual process. “It all starts with a solid foundation in scouting and active coaching,” he said.

Fabrice Simon, one of the workshop participants, shared his insights from the training, saying, “What I’ve learned is how to fine-tune some of our training methods. We’ve been doing some things, but not always in the best way. Effective communication with the kids we train is essential, and we’ve learned how to use the right words to make that communication clearer and more impactful.”

Another participant, Susan Nyambura, expressed her appreciation for the project, stating, “This is fantastic because it represents growth. It’s encouraging to see more courts being built, especially in this area along Thika Road. I hope we see more projects like this in the future. This is a great initiative, and we’re grateful for it.”