William Eze and Kiijon Brown: Basketball Coaching in Ghana

Excitement built as they boarded their flight, eager for an experience that aligned closely with their love of sport and interest in African culture. They wondered what the accommodations would be like and how the kids they were about to coach would respond to them. The anticipation of the unknown made the journey even more exciting.

The atmosphere upon arrival was welcoming. Their hosts and the other volunteers were accommodating and eager to make the boys feel at home. On their first day, Will and Kiijon were introduced to Ghana’s cultural core with a visit to Black Star Square. Here, they learned about the history of Ghana and the deep symbolism behind its flag, heavily tied to colonialism. The red stands for the blood shed during the fight for independence, gold for the country’s rich mineral wealth, green for its lush forests, and the Black Star for the people’s emancipation from slavery.

Each day, the boys traveled to a modest basketball court, the only one in the wider area, where they held their basketball coaching sessions. Initially, it was difficult to build rapport with the kids, but they soon broke the ice by playing a pickup game, which quickly connected them to the young players. The first day’s turnout was impressive, and the kids were eager to learn. With a new group of players showing up each day, the boys adapted quickly to different group sizes and age ranges, making each session unique.

Through conversations with the locals, Will and Kiijon learned about the difficult circumstances many faced. Limited opportunities trapped many of the youth, but despite these challenges, the smiles and gratitude of the kids were infectious. They were deeply appreciative of the boys’ commitment to helping them, and this mutual appreciation fueled Will and Kiijon’s motivation.

What stood out most was the discipline and respect instilled in the children from a young age. Despite having so little, the children carried themselves with dignity and joy. There was something refreshing about seeing kids playing outside with friends rather than glued to screens, a stark contrast to what Will and Kiijon were used to back home. This observation led them to reflect on how technology-driven first-world societies can hinder real social engagement.

This firsthand experience profoundly shifted their perspectives. Seeing the vast disparity in living conditions was eye-opening and deeply touching. It reminded them that what many take for granted is often the very chance someone else is dreaming of.

Will and Kiijon’s basketball coaching journey in Ghana with Sporting Opportunities was more than just about basketball—it was a powerful lesson in gratitude, human connection, and the universal language of sport.