Basketball in the Free State is alive — but not without its struggles. In a candid conversation with, Ikaelelo Likhi (Bigs), a representative of Free State Basketball, we explored the state of the sport, the challenges facing its growth, and the pathways available for young players dreaming of a professional future.

Basketball in the Free State: Promising, Yet Underserved

Basketball in the Free State has the heart, the players, and the potential — but lacks infrastructure. Over the past 15–20 years, development at the grassroots level declined significantly due to:

• A shortage of proper basketball facilities

• Poor governance and administration in local and national structures

• A lack of consistent development programs

Despite these hurdles, the province has produced competitive teams. In fact, the Free State U15 school team won the national championship in recent years — a clear sign that talent exists, it just needs nurturing.

Pathways for Young Players: From Schools to Professional Leagues

Opportunities for basketball development start at primary and high school level. While facilities remain limited, school leagues in regions like Mangaung offer students regular competition.

Players can be scouted for provincial teams and eventually participate in university tournaments (like USSA). From there, high-performing athletes can enter the Basketball National League (BNL) — South Africa’s highest professional league — and even aspire to international opportunities.

“You need to train hard and keep your grades up. Discipline and commitment will open doors,” says our interviewee.

What is the Basketball Africa League (BAL)?

The Basketball Africa League (BAL) is a game-changer. Co-organized by the NBA and FIBA, this continental tournament gives top South African clubs the chance to compete internationally.

• South African national club champions qualify for BAL qualifiers

• BAL games are broadcast globally and attended by NBA scouts

• Finals were recently hosted at SunBet Arena in Pretoria

This league offers players global exposure, creating real pathways to professional careers overseas.

What’s Holding Basketball Back in South Africa?

The biggest obstacle? Basketball South Africa (BSA) — the national governing body — has faced years of financial mismanagement and administrative breakdown.

This has caused:

• A collapse in international competition opportunities

• Weak provincial structures

• Limited trust from sponsors and government partners

The impact has been a “domino effect,” damaging development from the top down.

Local Partnerships and Support

Despite the struggles, there is hope. Partnerships with universities and limited support from local government help clubs access venues, run leagues, and host tournaments.

Still, the interviewee notes:

“Funding is small, but it helps us get where we normally couldn’t.”

🎓 Final Advice for Young Players

To any young basketballer in the Free State, the message is clear:

• Stay committed to your training

• Keep your academic grades up

• Be a well-rounded person — on and off the court

The sport offers opportunities — even scholarships to US colleges — if players work hard and remain focused.

📢 Final Thoughts

Basketball in the Free State is on the rise. With the right support, exposure, and structure, it can produce national champions and international stars. Platforms like BFN Sport Results exist to give these voices visibility — because the other 95% matters too.