Being a champion is something I have pursued and tested throughout my life. During my prime years, I was fortunate to achieve multiple championships in the Ethiopian Basketball League. Nearly my entire basketball career was spent playing for the Agency for the Administration of Rented Houses (AARH) team — known in Amharic as የኪራይ ቤቶች አስተዳደር ድርጅት. Over eight incredible years with AARH, I proudly celebrated seven championship victories.

Basketball has never been just a sport to me. It has been a teacher of discipline, teamwork, resilience, and adaptability. After moving to Finland and watching my sons take up basketball, I realized even more deeply how essential the game is for a healthy lifestyle. Through basketball, they are not only learning the value of hard work and cooperation under dynamic time frames but also building lasting friendships. These are life lessons that I cherish and am grateful to see passed on.

Yesterday marked one of the happiest days of my life — witnessing my son play in the final game of the Finnish Basketball Championship under the U19 category. It was a proud moment to watch him compete at such a high level. Although this was his second championship win in three years, his passion and skill were just as strong as when he first tasted victory two years ago under the U17 category.

Seeing this achievement fills me with immense pride. I hope that I have been able to pass down not only my love for the game but also the work ethic, commitment, and championship mentality that guided me throughout my own career.

Today, I stand as an Ethiopian Basketball Champion and a proud father of a two-time Finnish Basketball Champion. The journey from the courts of Ethiopia to the arenas of Finland is a testament to the enduring spirit of perseverance, passion, and family legacy.

April 28, 2025