JBC dares to dream

Innocent Kurira

Sports Reporter

ZIMBABWE basketball champions JBC have now set their sights on becoming the first team to qualify for the Basketball Africa League (Bal) finals.

Already, the team has made history by reaching the Elite 16 Division East qualifiers scheduled for November 14-19 in Johannesburg, South Africa.

BAL is Africa’s premier men’s basketball division.

It is also a collaborative effort between the National Basketball Association (NBA) and the International Basketball Federation (FIBA).

Formed in 2019, it consists of 12 of the continent’s best teams. Qualification comes through winning respective domestic competitions.

Six teams qualify directly, while six others have to play in the Road to BAL (qualifiers). JBC made it through the first round by topping their group which included Zambia’s Munali Suns, Dolphins (Botswana), Bravehearts (Malawi) and UNAM Wolves (Namibia).

As Group D winners, JBC has been drawn in Elite 16 Division East Group B alongside Ferroviario de Beira (Mozambique), City Oilers (Uganda) and COSPN (Madagascar).

It’s a difficult group by all proportions but JBC coach Addison Chiware is confident of doing the impossible with his team.

“We are working hard to progress our preparations technically and trying to sharpen our strategies as far as we can. We have watched and continue to watch videos available and keep tabs on their social media pages so that we have some knowledge of what to expect,” said Chiware.

Chiware is happy with the mood in camp ahead of the last 16 qualifiers.

“The team is excited, wanting to measure up to the task ahead. Having got to this stage gives the whole team the confidence that we can achieve more. Not only for us but the entire country,” said Chiware.

Zimbabwe will open their campaign with a tough tie against Mozambican giants Ferroviario de Beira next Tuesday before facing City Oilers of Uganda in the second game. They will wrap up their campaign against COSPN of Madagascar.