Saturday 15th, marked the official launch of the Mpesa Jr NBA Program, a groundbreaking initiative set to transform the basketball landscape in Kenya.
The partnership between NBA and Safaricom’s Mpesa aims to reach over 10,000 boys and girls in Nairobi, Mombasa, Eldoret, and Kisumu, providing young athletes with access to structured training, quality facilities, and professional mentorship.
Beril Achieng Awuonda, a young and passionate basketball coach, is among those playing a vital role in shaping the next generation of Kenyan basketball talent.
With a year of coaching experience under her belt, she describes her journey as one filled with valuable lessons, fun moments, and unique challenges.
“Coaching in the Junior NBA project is a different experience compared to other roles I’ve taken on,” Beril explained.
“There’s a proper structure in place, guiding players from the beginner level to the pro level. The intensity, media attention, and the caliber of talent make it both exciting and demanding.”
Beril works with players aged 8 to 18, focusing on essential basketball skills such as shooting, dribbling, passing, teamwork, and communication.
However, she acknowledges that young players in Kenya face significant challenges, particularly in accessing usable facilities and equipment.
Other obstacles include limited coaching expertise tailored to different age groups and external social pressures such as drug abuse.
The Mpesa Jr NBA Program is actively addressing these gaps.
“Through recurrent training clinics, learning materials, and the construction of basketball courts across different counties, young players now have greater opportunities to develop their skills,” she said.
Beyond technical training, the program also fosters mentorship and scholarship opportunities, ensuring that young athletes not only excel in basketball but also receive the guidance they need to navigate their careers.
Beril firmly believes in the potential of Kenyan players on the international stage.
“The talent here is immense. With the right training, exposure, and support, Kenyan players can compete at the highest levels globally.”
For young aspiring basketball players, she offers a simple but powerful piece of advice:
“Be innovative and creative to overcome every challenge that comes your way. Growth requires resilience and determination.”
With initiatives like the Mpesa Jr NBA Program, the future of Kenyan basketball looks promising.
As the sport continues to grow, young players now have a solid foundation to turn their passion into successful careers, both locally and internationally.
