BASKETBALL: AN UNDERRATED VARSITY SPORT

 Amilcar Xayiya

@melkardascribe

 

A game of crossovers, dunks and awe-inspiring shots – basketball is proving itself to be an electric sport deserving of more eyes and hype on varsity campuses. Despite the electricity, basketball still sits behind the shadow of bigger South African varsity sports such as rugby and soccer. This was further emphasised when a spectator at a recent basketball tournament, Siphokazi Msimango, asked, “Why are the stands not as filled compared to Varsity Cup games?”

 

Given the deep cultural roots of rugby and other sports in South Africa, this cultural dominance should be expected. However, basketball’s lack of cultural impact in South Africa should not detract from the excitement, energy and growing potential the sport brings to varsity landscapes. Already being played in high schools and varsities across South Africa, including the North West University (NWU), what was once a relatively niche campus activity is a big part of the varsity landscape. This reflects the increased participation and growing interest in basketball among students.

 

Eric Dlamini, a basketball player for the NWU’s A and B teams, said that the mixture of experienced and inexperienced players creates a great learning environment. He added that this fosters practice and understanding while building competitive confidence. While the competition level for basketball is not at the same level as rugby in South Africa, the passion and persistence the players display are on par. From waking up at 6 am for weekly practices and giving up their weekends for matches, Mr Dlamini described basketball as his true passion, stating, “I played throughout high school, even representing myself at a national level on multiple occasions.”

 

Another player for the B basketball team, Kwezi Dwenga, describes basketball as one of his purposes and favourite sports to watch, stating that “my favourite players are Giannis Antetokounmpo and Luka Dončić, simply for their exciting and impactful styles of play.” This showcases how the popularity of a sport does not affect the time and attention one puts into one’s passion.

 

Varsity games are already fun-filled and fast scoring. Now, they only need consistent roaring crowds as they enjoy the games and show the support the players need to have pride in their institutions.

 

NWU Potch Ladies’ Basketball A team (Source: Musa Sithole).

 

NWU Vaal B basketball player prepares for a free throw (Source: Musa Sithole).

Edited by Kyle Bauermeister