Basketball: Spintex Knights call for support as they eye historic BAL qualification

Spintex Knights Sporting Club, Ghana's first team to qualify for the Elite 16 of the Basketball Africa League (BAL), is making an urgent appeal for government and corporate support as they gear up for the next stage of the continental competition. 

The Greater Accra Basketball League champions, having made history by reaching the Elite 16, will compete in Cote d’Ivoire from November 5 to 10, 2024, against 15 other top teams from across Africa for a coveted spot in the main BAL tournament.

Despite their remarkable achievement in the qualifying tournament in Libya, where they finished second in Group F, the Knights have faced significant challenges. 

Speaking at a press conference today in Accra, co-founder Dr. Eric Opoku expressed disappointment over the lack of support from Ghana’s Ministry of Youth and Sports.

“We received no support from the Ministry. It’s unfortunate that a young, talented team representing Ghana has to achieve this feat without the backing of the nation,” Dr. Opoku said. 

He urged the government and corporate entities to step up and provide the necessary financial and logistical support as the team prepares for the Elite 16.

Head coach Serlorm Thomas emphasized the team’s commitment to reaching the main BAL competition, describing their Elite 16 qualification as the fulfilment of their goal. 

He stated, “We’re excited to be in this position, and we’re focused on making more history in Ivory Coast.”

Captain Elvis Pobi Siaw, known as ‘Arrow,’ also voiced his confidence in the team’s ability to succeed in the next stage. “We view our qualification as a chance for redemption, and we’re ready to give our best to compete at the highest level of African basketball.”

Star player James Amotoe, who was the top scorer in the qualifying tournament, said he was proud of his individual performance but is focused on helping the team achieve greater success in the upcoming Elite 16 matches.

The Knights’ historic run has captivated Ghanaian basketball fans, but their journey also highlights the pressing need for greater support. Dr. Opoku praised the contributions of his church, his mother, and NASCO for their backing but stressed that further assistance is essential if the team is to continue excelling on the international stage.

The team’s achievement marks a turning point for Ghanaian basketball, and with the right backing, the Spintex Knights are poised to make even more history by securing a spot in the main BAL competition. 

As the November 5 start date for the Elite 16 approaches, the team is calling on Ghana to rally behind them in their quest for continental glory by launching a fundraising campaign.

Stakeholders can support the club by donating to their fundraising campaign;

Bank: STANBIC BANK GHANA LTD.

Account Name: SPINTEX KNIGHTS SPORTING CLUB

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Account Number: 9040012058432

Account Type: Current Account

Swift Code: SBICGHAC

Bank code: 190103

Branch: Spintex Branch

Mobile Money (MoMo): 05503637702 - Spintex Knights Sporting Club

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The BAL, launched in partnership with the NBA, is Africa’s premier basketball competition, and a place in the main tournament would solidify Spintex Knights' standing as one of the continent’s elite teams.