Slam dunks don’t come short for this sharp shooter
Solomondale Pacers and University of Limpopo (UL) Snipers basketball player, Tebogo Baloyi, says despite her height, she is a sharp shooter and passionate player.
POLOKWANE – Tebogo explains that she first started playing for the Pacers in 2014 and it was there where she learnt the basics of the game.
She adds that the feeling of peace she felt when on court connected her to the game more and that was thanks to her coach, Phetolo ‘Coach B’ Mahana. At UL, Tebogo was able to interact with various players and the passion and dedication she saw from players during senior level games motivated her to play professionally.
You might also want to read: Female NBA player hosts basketball clinic in Mankweng
“Although I am only around 1,4 metres tall, I believe that height does not play a determining factor in playing the game, because as long as you are willing to play and have the drive, what matters is what you bring to the game,” she said.
Tebogo says what she loves most about basketball is the various roles you get to play during the game and that she is able to explore her skills in every game, whether it is being a shooter, point guard or a wing.
“Basketball allows me to feel in charge of my body, my health and fitness. As a female player, I have experienced many challenges because female basketball is not really recognised. Our games are limited and I choose not to listen to negativity that comes my way. My family wanted me to quit but my father, who has supported my passion, encouraged me to carry on,” she explained.
“Overcoming these challenges was never an issue because I have always known what I wanted in life and I’ve never let people get to me and decide for me, which is why I never took the mentioned challenges as challenges but rather, as my road to getting to where I want to be,” she said.
Tebogo says the Pacers have many medals to brag about, including eight gold medals and six silver. She says she sees herself playing for the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) Los Angeles Sparks as they are known for winning back-to-back titles.
“I believe in having a team that has strong and unique talents and from my experience, the Sparks have gifted players,” she concluded.
