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Program Description:

Select players, those showcasing a unique skill level within their given age and gender demographics, have the chance to compete for three months (May-July) in a highly competitive basketball league. This league allows for players to have isolated team practices and skill trainings, followed by travel (game-play) on weekends.  The league is comprised of elite youth players across all courts, totaling 22 teams:

Program Goals:

  1. Give elite players a chance to showcase their skills

  2. Build cross-court camaraderie amongst youth

  3. Increase opportunity for higher education through sport

  • Four U13 mixed gender teams

  • Four U16 girls and boys teams

  • Four U18 girls and boys teams

Program Outcomes:

While ST’s mission focuses on using basketball as a tool for improved health and empowering communities, there are opportunities for our elite players to use their skill to continue playing at higher levels.  Since 2015, ST has had five players selected for the Under 16 Rwandan National team, one player selected for NBA’s Basketball Without Borders Camp, and over 40 players receiving athletic scholarships for secondary school through the Jr. NBA programming.

Shooting Touch’s Thierry Nkundwa, top five player in FIBA Africa U16 Championship and participant of Basketball Without Borders in Johannesburg, South Africa

Shooting Touch’s Thierry Nkundwa, top five player in FIBA Africa U16 Championship and participant of Basketball Without Borders in Johannesburg, South Africa

“It means a lot to be on all-star, because on the weekend I’m getting exercise for my body and I’m having so much fun. I don’t have to pay transport or anything. I get to meet different people from Kayonza, Nyamirama and Rwinkavu and we become friends that way — by playing and talking together. I’m quickly adding to my talent too, but I had to work very hard to do so. All-Star is helping me as a person and as a player. I’m communicating and working with others and that’s making me a better person and my teammates a better team.”
— Samuel Waimaga, 18 years old, Participant
The Jr. NBA Rwanda Championships were held in Kigali this October, 2019 and an entire team of Shooting Touch girls, recruited to compete in the League of 30 schools, took home the championship trophy!

The Jr. NBA Rwanda Championships were held in Kigali this October, 2019 and an entire team of Shooting Touch girls, recruited to compete in the League of 30 schools, took home the championship trophy!