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Innocent Kurira , [email protected]

Bulawayo Basketball Association (BBA) secretary-general Francis Dube has revealed that discussions with the Bulawayo City Council (BCC) over the use of Khanyisile Sports Centre for basketball activities are progressing positively.

Earlier this month, the BCC terminated the Khanyisile Foundation’s lease agreement, leaving the basketball community uncertain about its indoor venue, particularly with the onset of the rainy season.

The Khanyisile Sports Centre, formerly known as BCD, had been operated by the Khanyisile Foundation, which is believed to owe the council a significant amount in unpaid rates, leading to the lease termination. The venue had been the heart of basketball activity in the city for many years. However, its closure has left the sport without a home. 

As a result, the BBA has relocated its matches to Eveline High School, but an indoor venue is essential due to the current weather conditions.

Dube  explained  that the BBA had engaged the council regarding the use of the venue, and the talks are promising. “We have engaged the council, and it is our hope that we will receive a response from them by the end of this week. We have applied, requesting permission to use the venue for our games. The major issue is that this is the only indoor venue available, and with the rains beginning, games are being affected,” Dube said.

Basketball action

Although the BBA has moved its matches to Eveline High School, there are growing concerns about the long-term implications for the sport in the city. The wheelchair basketball tournament is also at risk, which could impact the disabled community.

Dube emphasised the importance of sport in keeping young people engaged and away from social vices such as drug abuse. Basketball has a long history of popularity in Bulawayo, dating back to the 1980s and 1990s, but internal challenges led to a decline in the sport’s prominence.

Action during week of Bulawayo Basketball League(file photo)

Basketball was once one of the city’s most successful sports, winning prestigious tournaments like the Major Leyland Trophy for high schools, where Founders and Northlea High Schools represented the city with distinction. 

At club level, teams like Peking Stars and Highlanders’ men and women’s teams excelled, clinching the elite clubs’ Kodak National Championships. 

Basketball had carved out a significant place in the city’s sporting landscape, attracting top players and passionate fans. Crowds of up to 1 000 spectators would fill the small venue, cheering on the stars of the day as high-quality basketball was showcased. 

– @innocentskizoe