The President of the Sierra Leone Basketball Association (SLBA), Alie Ajazy, has expressed deep satisfaction with the remarkable growth of basketball in the country, highlighting the recently concluded FIBA National Youth Camp as a major milestone in the sport’s revival.
Speaking at the Siaka Stevens Stadium, Ajazy noted that when the current executive took over, basketball was at its lowest point. However, he said the transformation since then has been significant.
“We are blessed and fortunate to be in this position today,” he remarked. “So much progress has been made, and even this FIBA Youth Camp shows how far we’ve come. The players and coaches found it impactful and educational.”
The training camp brought together 30 young players, 15 boys and 15 girls, and 20 coaches, including two female coaches. Ajazy said the five-day programme revealed tremendous improvement among the participants, further proving the growing potential of Sierra Leone’s young athletes. Parents were also present to support their children, which he described as encouraging for the sport’s future.
Ajazy expressed gratitude to the Hon Minister of Sports, who granted the SLBA access to the National Stadium for the first time in nearly four years. “Many young people have never had this opportunity before,” he said. “We even have a game going on today, and that means a lot.”
He also extended appreciation to Africell and Afrimoney for their consistent sponsorship.
“They always show up whenever we ask. We remain grateful,” he added.
Despite not requesting financial assistance from the Ministry, Ajazy said the government has played a critical role by providing access to classrooms at the NSA and training facilities at the stadium.
The SLBA president revealed that the association has invited FIBA experts to return for continued training. He highlighted Sierra Leone’s increasing presence in international basketball, noting that one young Sierra Leonean is currently enrolled at the NBA Academy in Senegal, while the country’s participation in tournaments in Guinea and Uganda has further boosted its reputation.
Ajazy also commended the expertise of the camp’s lead instructor, Mr. Joe from Cameroon, an American professional who have trained 48 NBA players and helped over 150 athletes secure university scholarships.
“He taught us scouting, communication, and federation development. He even exchanged contacts with our coaches for follow-up,” Ajazy explained.
Looking ahead, the SLBA has a packed calendar, including the arrival of a referee instructor, a coaching course, the kickoff of the national league, ongoing Division 2 competitions at the Sports Zone and upcoming female league activities.
Ajazy encouraged journalists to stay engaged, noting that basketball is rapidly becoming one of the most active sports in Sierra Leone.
“The momentum is high, and we must maintain it,” he said. “Our young boys and girls are showing up with passion every single day. It is our responsibility to create the pathways that will transform the sport.”
