In a breathtaking display of skill and determination, the Zimbabwean basketball powerhouse, JBC, etched its name in the annals of history, securing a coveted spot in the Elite 16 Division East of Basketball Africa League (BAL) Season 4. The momentous victory unfolded at the University of Botswana Indoor Arena, where JBC triumphed over Zambia's Munali Suns with a resounding 87-50 win on the evening of Monday, October 23.
Breaking barriers and shattering expectations, JBC's head coach and owner, Addison Chiware, reflected on this unprecedented achievement. "We feel that a hoodoo is lifted. Like how athletes started to run a mile in under two minutes, I feel that Zimbabwean clubs can also say 'Yes, we can.' We are happy that we are the first club to get this far, and I am sure more will follow," said Chiware.
Zimbabwe Basketball team JBC plays against Mozambique side Ferroviario da Beira 21 November 2023
As the Road to BAL intensifies, JBC strategically fortified its roster with key additions. Towering over their opponents, Senegalese center Abdoulaye Ndoye and Nigerian big Chris Brown, both standing at impressive heights of 2.10m and 2.13m respectively, are set to redefine JBC's frontcourt dynamics. Their formidable presence promises enhanced rim protection and scoring capabilities, both within the paint and possibly beyond.
Adding to the lineup is the dynamic shooting guard, Curtis Hollis, a seasoned player with international experience, having graced the NBA G League and various leagues in the USA, Dominican Republic, and Germany. Hollis, a solid scorer, injects energy into JBC's offensive strategy.
In their debut on the Road to BAL, JBC faced Mozambique's Ferroviario da Beira on November 21, a thrilling encounter that unfortunately ended in a 55-75 defeat. Despite a strong start with a lead of 11-7 in the opening minutes, JBC faced a resilient Beira team that seized control and secured the victory. The leading scorer was JBC the South Sudanese Power Forward Nyang Wek who put up 12 PTS, 6 REB and 1 Block while 22-year-old Shooting Guard Munyaradzi Chidzomba scored 8 points and 3 assists along with Small Forward Noah Jotham Penduka also scoring 8 points.
Coach Addison Chiware analyzed the game, acknowledging areas for improvement. "We had a good start but lost concentration at the end of the first quarter. Our execution of zone defence and transition offensively were not good, but we have picked up lessons that we will take to the next game where concentration will be key."
Undeterred by the initial setback, JBC looks ahead to Game Day 2, scheduled for November 22, where they will clash with Uganda's City Oilers at 11 am. The journey continues with matches against Madagscar's Club Omnisport Police Nationale on Thursday, emphasizing the team's unwavering commitment to making history in the BAL Season 4.
JBC Basketball Final Team Roster For Elite 16 East Division
| # | Name | Position |
|---|---|---|
| #00 | Allen DANGA | Small Forward |
| #5 | Tadisa MURATU | Power Forward |
| #7 | Saul PHIRI | Small Forward |
| #8 | Noah Jotham PENDUKA | Small Forward |
| #10 | Munyaradzi CHIDZOMBA | Shooting Guard |
| #12 | Benson NYATANGA | Power Forward |
| #14 | Dyvonne PFACHI | Point Guard |
| #15 | Nyang WEK | Power Forward |
| #21 | Tafadzwa TELA / Panashe KADUYA | Center |
| #30 | Rolland Kudakwashe CHANGARA | Small Forward |
| #34 | Tashinga CHIIMBA |
Coaches & Staff
| Name | Role |
|---|---|
| Addison CHIWARE | Coach |
| Johnson SHUMBA | Assistant Coach 1 |
| Craig LAMBERT | Assistant Coach 2 |
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