Sharp shooter dunking his goals

VANDERBIJLPARK. – At the tender age of 10, Tinotenda Chirara fell in love… in love with basketball. Ever since his introduction to the sport way back in 2006 he has taken the court by storm, conquering his goals one hoop at a time.

The 24-year-old second-year BA student at the Vanderbijlpark Campus of the North-West University is a modern-day Renaissance Man. Not only is he a point-scoring machine. He is also a natural-born leader and a hardworking student.

“Basketball alone will not take your far. Focus more on your academics. If you can balance the two, you’ll never go wrong,” is his advice to aspiring players and students.

Having played for the Zimbabwean National u/20 side and for the Mpumalanga Rhinos in the SA Professional League it would be unwise not to pay attention to what he says.

He is currently captain of the NWU Vaal’s senior basketball team and a prolific scorer who can change the outcome of any game.

This rang especially true when he recently scored a career-best of 40 points in a Varsity Cup Game in Johannesburg against UKZN to spearhead an epic comeback to win the game by a single point.

“It is one of the best games that I have ever played. To me team accomplishments are more important than personal achievements. I was happy to score 40 points, but I was happier that we won the game, especially considering that we were the underdogs,” says Chirara.

Despite being a natural leader he leads by example on and off the field. His work ethic and dedication are what distinguishes him from his peers.

“I think I’m a good shooter, but it didn’t come naturally. It took hours and hours of practice to reach the level I am at. I am a decent player because I was taught the importance of basics and fundamentals at a very young age, but I still consider myself a student of the game,” he admits.

Even though going to the gym is off-limits during the national lockdown he is not discouraged to keep in shape. “I do 500 sit-ups, 500 push-ups and 500 squats and skip rope every day to stay fit.”

As captain and point/shooting-guard of the NWU Vaal’s finest, it is easy to understand why players look up to him. His approach to basketball is elementary. “I keep it simple all the time. If you want to be a great player you should master defending and you should also understand that it is a team sport and everyone’s role is equally important.”

“I see myself as a natural-born leader who does not really need a position to influence those around me. I like to lead by example.”