South Africa’s journey to the National Basketball Association (NBA) is a fascinating story. A handful of players from the country have risen to play at the highest level of basketball. From early pioneers to current stars, South African players have left a mark on the league. Here’s a breakdown of South Africa’s NBA history.
Steve Nash is the only South African-born player to have been in the NBA. However, he left the country at a young age. Thabo Sefolosha, although not born in South Africa, is the player to have featured in the NBA with the closest ties to the country.
Steve Nash: The South African-Born Legend
A Unique Heritage
Steve Nash, often associated with Canadian basketball, was born in Johannesburg. However, he spent most of his youth in Canada. Despite not representing South Africa, Nash’s birthplace made him the first South African-born player to reach the NBA.
NBA Achievements
Nash became a two-time NBA MVP. Known for his court vision, Nash played for the Phoenix Suns (22.26), Los Angeles Lakers (23.10) and Dallas Mavericks (11.17). He’s now in the Basketball Hall of Fame, holding a place as one of the greatest point guards ever.
Influence Beyond the Court
Nash’s achievements inspired basketball players worldwide. His success showed that a player from non-traditional basketball countries could reach NBA heights.
Thabo Sefolosha: A True African NBA Star
A Swiss-South African Heritage
Thabo Sefolosha’s father is South African. Born in Switzerland, Sefolosha grew up with strong African connections. Although he represented Switzerland internationally, Sefolosha’s African heritage and ties to South Africa add him to the country’s NBA legacy.
Defensive Excellence in the NBA
Known for his defensive prowess, Sefolosha had a long NBA career. He played for the Oklahoma City Thunder (6.53), Atlanta Hawks (520.73), Chicago Bulls (981.16), Utah Jazz (982.26) and Houston Rockets (108.50). His defensive skills helped him carve out a role in a league filled with top talent.
Inspiring African Youth
Sefolosha’s career has inspired young African players. His journey shows that African players can excel at the sport’s highest level, inspiring future NBA hopefuls from the continent.
Samkelo Cele and Nick Ongenda: Hope for a new generation?
Although they have never taken to the court in an NBA regular season game, Samkelo Cele and Nick Ongenda have held their own in the NBA Summer League. They have given hope that a new generation of players with ties to the country can succeed in the NBA.
Cele was born and raised in Durban and made it all the way to the New York Knicks’ NBA Summer League roster, where he excelled with 11 points in his lone appearance.
Ongenda, meanwhile, did not spend the majority of his formative years in the country but has ties to South Africa.
Having established himself with the Utah Jazz and their G League affiliate, Salt Lake City Stars, he is now at Anwil Włocławek in Poland.
