MBABANE – Dunkylaine Basketball Academy is celebrating another milestone in the journey of one of its young talents.
Khwezi Simelane has earned an opportunity to attend a basketball camp with Infinitum Academy in Serbia, which is a landlocked country in Europe. The opportunity marks an exciting step in Simelane’s basketball journey, exposing him to a new basketball environment, international coaching and opportunities to further develop his game. Currently based in South Africa for school, Simelane continues to represent the values and foundation instilled in him through Dunkylaine Basketball Academy.
Dunkylaine Basketball Academy founder Mzwakhe Phiri said the opportunity was a reflection of the youngster’s commitment to his development. “This opportunity is no accident. Khwezi has consistently shown commitment, discipline and a willingness to work. His development has been built through countless hours on the court, learning from coaches, competing with teammates and pushing himself to become better,” said Phiri.
He said the academy had always emphasised the importance of developing players both on and off the court. “At Dunkylaine, we believe that talent may open a door, but character, discipline and hard work are what keep you in the room. Khwezi has demonstrated all three.”
Phiri said what made the achievement particularly special was not only what Khwezi brought to the basketball court, but also the person he was becoming away from it. “He has shown good character, respect, discipline and a positive attitude. These qualities are just as important as scoring points, making assists or winning games.”
The academy believes Khwezi understands that basketball is not simply about becoming a better athlete, but also about becoming a better person. For Dunkylaine, the Serbia opportunity represents the academy’s broader objective of creating pathways for young Eswatini basketball players to experience opportunities beyond the country’s borders.
Khwezi’s journey from Eswatini, through school in South Africa and now towards an international basketball experience in Serbia, demonstrates what can be achieved when young players commit themselves to their development. “This is bigger than one player,” said Phiri. “It is a statement that Eswatini has talent. With the right development, exposure and opportunities, our young players can compete and learn anywhere in the world.”
Khwezi’s opportunity also adds to Eswatini’s growing connection with international basketball through Jama Mahlalela. The Mbabane-born coach has established himself in the NBA, having worked with the Toronto Raptors and Golden State Warriors.
Mahlalela was part of the Warriors’ coaching staff during their 2022 NBA Championship campaign and returned to the Raptors in 2023. His journey from Eswatini to one of the biggest basketball leagues in the world provides an important backdrop as another young player from the country takes a step towards international basketball.
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