Back in the Game: Reconnecting with Teammates in Addis

There’s nothing quite as special as reuniting with former teammates. Last May, 2024, while I was in Addis Ababa, I decided to gather some of my old basketball teammates and other friends for a day of shooting around at the newly opened Friendship Park. The park is an incredible place, bustling with energy, and it’s perfect for meeting outdoors and challenging young, talented ballers.

We organized a thrilling 3-on-3 match with teams consisting of me, Gosaye, Nujeba, Tibebe (who we fondly call “Giragn”), Selam, and Zola. The game was intense and full of fun, reminding us all of the good old days. We also made some new friends that day, including a few players from Sudan who were equally passionate about the sport.

One of the highlights was running into our good friend Masa, a former handball player and now the coach of the Ethiopian National Handball team. It was wonderful catching up with him after so long. As a gesture of our enduring friendship and shared love for sports, we exchanged jerseys. Masa even brought me a complete handball outfit, which was a really thoughtful gift.

After the game, we continued the day by unwinding together. We treated ourselves to a relaxing session at Jaquez, enjoying the sauna, and later had a delicious dinner at the Ramada Hotel. It was the perfect way to cap off a day full of great memories, laughter, and camaraderie.

This experience was so fulfilling that I’m determined to make it a routine whenever I’m in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Reconnecting with old friends and teammates is something I’ll always cherish.

A Memorable 3×3 Basketball Tournament: Playing Alongside My Son and the Future Stars of Arat killo Addis Ababa

As the curtains closed on 2023, Aratkillo Addis Ababa witnessed the excitement of yet another thrilling 3×3 basketball tournament at the former YMCA (Dec 30-31, 2023). This time, I had the privilege of sharing the court with my son, creating a special moment in the very arena where I clinched multiple championships in the past. Organized by the Ethiopian Basketball Players Association, the event drew participation from seven teams, with our team securing a respectable 3rd place overall.

Playing alongside my son, Leo, added a unique flavor to the competition. Despite facing multiple games in a single day, Leo showcased an outstanding performance, highlighting the potential of the younger generation. The tournament featured intense matchups, proving that young players can compete at a high level. While I managed to make significant contributions with my skills and shots, I recognized the need to enhance my endurance for future competitions.

Regrettably, I couldn’t make it for the second-day game, where our team competed valiantly but fell short. Nevertheless, my commitment to participating in 3×3 tournaments remains unwavering, and I aim to contribute to the growing popularity of the sport in Ethiopia.

I extend my gratitude to the organizers, particularly the association chairman, Mr. Samson Kebede president on the association, and game coordinator, Ms. Selamawit Kassahun, member of the association board, for their outstanding efforts in hosting a successful event within a short timeframe. Special appreciation goes to my former teammate, Gossaye, the owner of Gossi Sport Center, for graciously hosting us in Debre Zeyit and providing us with a venue for practice. It’s evident that Gossi Sport Center has made significant strides in the six years since my last visit. Keep up the excellent work, Mr. Gossaye!

Reflecting on the success of the tournament, I propose the inclusion of a women’s series in future events to showcase the talents of both men and women on the court simultaneously. Looking ahead to 2024, I am enthusiastic about organizing more games and contributing to the continued growth of 3×3 basketball in Ethiopia.

June 2017 Basketball 3×3 @Gossy Sport Center

In June of 2017, I had the incredible opportunity to journey to Debre Zeyit, located around 60km from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. My purpose for this trip was to visit the Gossy Sport Center, a place with significant personal and sporting significance. Within this center, memories of camaraderie and triumph were woven into the fabric of my past, as Gosaye Assefa, a cherished friend and former teammate from our basketball days at the Agency for Authorization for Rented House (AARH), stood by my side through multiple championship victories. It’s worth noting that Gosaye and I also proudly represented the Ethiopian National basketball team during our time together, competing on the international stage in Cairo, Egypt.

One of the key motivations behind my visit was to inaugurate the newly constructed basketball court at the Gossy Sport Center. This was a moment of honor, coupled with the privilege of orchestrating a thrilling 3X3 basketball championship event. Prior to departing from Helsinki, I had strategically coordinated with Gosaye to facilitate this endeavor, and my connection with Mr. Olsi Marko, the dedicated midnight basket coordinator from the Helsinki Young Men Christian Association (HYMCA), proved invaluable. Mr. Marko extended his generous support by providing a range of prizes, including T-shirts, for the occasion. I remain deeply appreciative of his contribution and the role played by his organization in making this event possible.

The 3×3 basketball championship unfolded with an air of intense competition, showcasing the boundless dedication of young athletes who poured their hearts and souls into every play. Witnessing their unwavering commitment was an absolute delight, a testament to the passion that fuels the world of sports. Beyond the court, this gathering also allowed me to reconnect with familiar faces – former teammates with whom I shared countless victories, adversaries who once challenged my skills, and the simple joy of shared social moments.

As the event transpired, we were blessed with splendid weather that further elevated the experience. The backdrop of clear skies and warm sun served as the perfect setting for a reunion brimming with nostalgia and the creation of new memories. Moreover, the culinary delights of Ethiopian cuisine added an extra layer of enjoyment, creating a truly memorable and cherished time.

In essence, my journey to Debre Zeyit and the Gossy Sport Center in June 2017 was a chapter of my life replete with meaningful connections, sporting prowess, and the celebration of shared passion. The inaugurated basketball court stood as a symbol of the enduring bonds forged through competition and teamwork, and the 3X3 championship was a testament to the unyielding spirit of aspiring athletes. As I reflect upon that time, I am reminded of the joy of sport, the unity it fosters, and the indelible memories it etches into our hearts.