Stars inspire Ntuta

Ngqwele Dube, Sports Correspondent
FOR emerging basketball player, Elias Ntuta, meeting one of the top stars in the world’s best league has proved inspiring.

Ntuta was one of the young players that got the opportunity to attend a training camp in Harare that was graced by National Basketball Association star, Luc Mbah A Moute.

The former Mzingwane High School pupil had the chance of shaking the star’s hand and interacting with him at a personal level, an experience that left him feeling “great”.

When Ntuta watched Luc on television taking on the best in the elite league of basketball, he never imagined he would one day meet the star but now he dreams of taking the trip to the United States and playing in the same league with his idol.

The three day Luc Mbah A Moute Top 50 Basketball Camp was organised by iBelieve Sports Academy in conjunction with Fundamentally Astute Athletics saw 50 emerging stars being taken through the coaching clinic by the Cameroonian star.

It was held at Eaglesvale Senior School in Harare last weekend.

Ntuta said while he was awe struck, he managed to soak in the advice that was dished out by Moute, who told them it was critical for the play to adopt discipline as their second nature if they are going to succeed in their careers.

“He also told us we should always listen to our coaches and the match officials when we are playing. He added there is no substitute for hard work and if one wants to succeed they have to put in the hours.

“For me his journey to stardom was remarkable because he came from humble beginnings and in Africa but is now hogging the limelight in the world’s best basketball league. I was personally inspired to set a goal of also playing in the NBA.

“Luc made me believe that I can also make it to the top. All it will take will be my hard work, focus and discipline,” he said.

Moute also took the players through basketball drills during the camp, imparting valuable skills the youngsters can implement in improving their game.

Ntuta said the advanced drills will certainly prove valuable when he plays for Team Bulawayo in next month’s National Youth Games scheduled for Matabeleland North.

The former Mzingwane pupil, who turned out for Matabeleland South in last year’s Youth Games was unfortunate not to make it in the All Star Top 20 after he injured his ankle.

The youngsters were given playing kits, balls and Adidas sneakers, items they will cherish.

Ntuta said he was also impressed by Luc’s humbleness as he shook all the players’ hands and had one on one interactions with the players.

“I asked him how it is like playing against top players like LeBron James and he revealed it was a challenge he always relishes as it brought out the best in him.

“I will be making efforts to secure a scholarship and also head for America. I am going to up my game as we were told Mba would be returning next year for another session, I hope I will be able to impress then and get my ticket to the States,” he said adding he started playing basketball when he was doing Form Three at Mzingwane where he completed his A-levels last year.

He is eyeing joining one of Bulawayo’s sides when the basketball season kicks off in September.
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