Seventeen-year-old Ben Kwame Ayugi is making his mark at the 21st Basketball Without Borders (BWB) Africa camp in Kigali, Rwanda, where he’s one of 60 top young talents selected from 21 African countries.
“It’s been amazing,” said Ayugi. “Training with NBA and WNBA coaches is something I never imagined. I’ve learned so much, especially on defense, where I feel I need the most growth.”
The camp has pushed Ben out of his comfort zone, facing tougher opponents—many taller than him—and forging bonds with fellow players across Africa.
His dream? To play Division I college basketball in the U.S., represent Kenya, and one day make it to the NBA. “Anywhere in the NBA—just to represent my country,” he said.
He hopes his journey inspires young players back home: “Keep working hard. You never know when the opportunity will come. I didn’t expect this camp, but here I am.”
BWB Africa, hosted in East Africa for the first time, is more than a training ground—it’s a launchpad. “Camps like this give you purpose,” Ayugi said. “Without them, I wouldn’t know where to go.”
Michael Finley, NBA Africa’s Senior Director and Kenya Country Lead, echoed that impact: “It’s a big deal. This gives young players the chance to be seen by global coaches and scouts—and it all starts right here.”
For Ayugi, it’s a step closer to turning dreams into reality.
