In a passionate address this morning, the President of the Sierra Leone Basketball Federation, Ali Hijazi, inspired the national basketball team ahead of their opening match against host nation Senegal in the Zone 2 Basketball Tournament.

Hijazi emphasized the significance of the event, not only for the players but also for the future of basketball in Sierra Leone.

The President highlighted the symbolic importance of Sierra Leone’s invitation to the tournament, extending gratitude to FIBA Africa for the opportunity. “This journey is about more than just basketball; it’s about purpose. We came here to develop and provide our young basketball players with invaluable exposure, and to strengthen our relationship with FIBA representatives as we aim to advance basketball in our nation,” Hijazi stated.

Addressing the team, Hijazi underscored the need for unity, focus, and discipline. “Starting today, we face some tough tests—challenges that will demand our full focus, discipline, and teamwork. But I want to remind everyone that we are here as a team, united in our mission to represent our nation with pride, dignity, and determination,” he said.

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Hijazi also used the occasion to advocate for a shift away from individualism in sports, urging the team to prioritize collective effort. “This is not about individual gain. It’s about collective growth—working together to bring out the best in our players and to elevate our federation as a whole,” he added.

The President reaffirmed his commitment to transforming basketball in Sierra Leone, focusing on unity and development. “As part of my leadership, this is a strive to make sure basketball has a new face in Sierra Leone, and my commitment is to foster unity and cohesion to give the game a facelift,” Hijazi asserted.

He concluded with a call to action, urging the team to embrace their responsibilities as ambassadors of the nation. “Let us carry this mindset into every moment, on and off the court. Let’s make our time here count, not just for ourselves, but for the future of basketball in our nation.”