In this unique situation, Moses Moody expresses joy and even pride in being a supportive presence from the sidelines.
Moody recognizes that his influence extends far beyond the scoreboard. He proudly announces that the team he is coaching is the No. 1 seed and has reached the championship game.
The following day, although they did not claim the title, the final score will not overshadow the memories created.
From Saturday, August 3, to Tuesday, August 6, Moody dedicated four days to serving as a coach at the Basketball Without Borders Africa camp, hosted at the American International School of Johannesburg in South Africa. This experience allowed the Warriors shooting guard to bring along his mother, father, grandmother, and brother for a once-in-a-lifetime trip that materialized only a week before the event.
The call to go to Africa
While training in Los Angeles, Moody received a call from his agent, Rich Paul of Klutch Sports, who inquired if he was interested in making the trip. The realization of the impact he would have on numerous children didn’t immediately strike the fourth-year NBA guard. However, he certainly wasn’t going to refuse the chance to visit Africa. As children surrounded him, chanting and dancing, Moody’s smile mirrored their excitement during an event that transcended basketball.
While that aspect of the experience was delightful for Moody, he believes his true influence resonated through the basketball and life lessons he imparted to campers aged 16 and 17.
“I’m glad y’all are here. I want you to view this as an opportunity,” Moody expressed to NBC Sports Bay Area on Monday regarding the four-day camp. “Personally, I’m not overly concerned about winning or losing in these games. It’s more about you all taking advantage of this opportunity.”
“In terms of basketball, it’s about showcasing your talent, but also making connections with the people here and learning from them. That’s really been my message to my guys.”
The campers were divided into three teams, with Moody coaching one alongside Immanuel Quickley from the Toronto Raptors and Bruno Fernando, who played 45 games for the Atlanta Hawks last season before signing a one-year deal with the Raptors. Former Warriors first-round draft pick Ekpe Udoh joined as an assistant coach, while Golden State Valkyries general manager Ohemaa Nyanin took on the role of camp director.
Developing a basketball hotbed
Since its inception in 2001, Basketball Without Borders has evolved into a premier skills development program for the NBA and FIBA, uncovering numerous stars, including Joel Embiid, who participated in BWB Africa in 2011. Just two years ago, Embiid became the first Basketball Without Borders alumnus to win the NBA MVP award.
This year’s Africa camp featured 60 participants—30 boys and 30 girls—representing 24 African nations, including five players from the boys’ side identified as NBA Africa Academy prospects. Each day began with drills and workouts, leading directly into competitive games. After the camp concluded, awards such as MVP, Defensive MVP, Sportsmanship Award, Most Improved Player, and 3-Point Champion were presented to boys and girls who distinguished themselves.
Photo credit: NBA
For both children and staff, including Moody, the memories and lessons learned outside of basketball were equally crucial. During our conversation on a Monday, Moody struggled to recall the day of the week due to the exhaustion from a transcontinental flight and a nine-hour time difference from his basketball home in the Bay Area. Despite all he had witnessed, he felt an insatiable desire for more and extended his trip by an additional day.
Moody fully embraced Africa’s wild beauty, having just returned from a safari where he experienced a lion devouring meat from a stick so close that he could clearly see every detail in its yellow eyes. He and his family even had the opportunity to visit the home of a local hero.
“We went to Nelson Mandela’s house and enjoyed a meal prepared by his staff,” Moody recalled. “His chefs were present, and they cooked in his home. That was an incredible experience. I’ve had many great moments since arriving here.”
While Moody engaged in coaching and participated in various camp activities both on and off the court, his family took part in activities he couldn’t due to time constraints. This was what led him to decide on staying an extra day, aiming to maximize their experiences before returning home.
“They visited a place that resembled a village, although it wasn’t an actual village,” Moody described. “The locals shared stories and educated visitors about the culture and various aspects of life here.”
“There was also another area where they encountered many shops, bustling with people eager to sell their goods. It was truly an experience of interacting with real people from the region.”
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Photo credit: NBA
Paying it forward
This summer, Basketball Without Borders Africa showcased Moody’s remarkable ability to inspire not only the youth but also those older than him, reinforcing the recognition of his maturity beyond his years. The 22-year-old has served as a guiding light for Little Rock, Ark. In late June, he co-hosted “A Night With Moses Moody” alongside Paul, where they shared personal anecdotes about their paths to success. In July, he organized his annual Little Rock Basketball Camp for participants aged 11 to 15.
Moody attributes his inspiration to Joe Johnson, a fellow Little Rock native who navigated an impressive 18-year NBA career. As a child, Moody experienced Johnson’s generosity firsthand when he organized a 3-on-3 tournament in a parking lot—an event that would unknowingly impact the life of a future top draft pick.
“At that young age, I had no understanding of what it took to give back or host an event like that,” Moody recalled. “All I knew was how accessible it was to me as a child. Being there with Joe Johnson felt like being at the pinnacle of success. As a kid from Little Rock, seeing someone like him in the NBA was surreal.”
“Just the chance to be in his presence and participate in an event designed for fun and competition allowed me to appreciate those experiences from a child’s perspective. Reflecting on that joy as an adult, I recognize the significance of those moments. I viewed Joe Johnson as a role model, someone whose words and actions were priceless; that opportunity wasn’t solely about fun. That inspired me to contribute similarly back in Little Rock.”
Among his various initiatives, Moody takes particular pride in a new addition to his Motivate One summer series, which occurred a week after his youth basketball camp.
A casual discussion between Moody and his father about how to broaden their influence beyond typical NBA player activities transformed into a transformative day where children of all ages, races, and genders could gain invaluable skills, regardless of their interest in basketball.
“My favorite event was a youth summit,” Moody shared. “We introduced the kids to various trades. We collaborated with an organization called Trades 4Life, which teaches practical skills. We had a car on-site for tire-changing lessons, an electrician demonstrating basic skills in his craft, and a barber showing them how to cut hair. They learned small skills like laying bricks and pouring concrete; it was all very hands-on.”
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An interactive discussion aimed at children was conducted by individuals who may not be professional athletes but are involved in various sports capacities.
“Many children engage in sports, but when their participation dwindles or eventually ceases, they often have to navigate a completely different path,” Moody explained. “This is primarily due to their lack of exposure to the numerous career opportunities available within the sports industry.”
“Whether it’s journalism, photography, or even culinary arts, there are an array of careers associated with sports. The goal was to introduce them to these possibilities and encourage them to ask questions and explore their interests.”
Recognizing His Influence
Just two weeks following the summit, Moody and his family boarded a flight to Africa. The significance of the moment, signifying the burgeoning popularity of basketball in Africa, became clear to Moody only after they arrived.
While superstars like Steph Curry, LeBron James, and Kevin Durant were competing for an iconic gold medal for Team USA at the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics, their closest exhibition match resulted in a narrow one-point victory over South Sudan, the youngest nation in the world following its independence in 2011.
Nigeria’s women’s basketball team made history at the Olympics in Paris by becoming the first African team, male or female, to reach the quarterfinals after triumphing over Australia and Canada.
“I didn’t truly grasp the importance of it until I arrived,” Moody remarked. “I’ve spoken with the players about using basketball as a means to an end, rather than allowing basketball to dictate their lives. I want them to recognize basketball as a tool that can open many doors. Observing South Sudan’s achievements and Nigeria’s successes makes basketball appealing and highlights its potential for a diverse audience.”
“Basketball is the reason I am where I am today. If it weren’t for people playing basketball in Arkansas, I would not be here speaking to you now. My family’s situation has changed significantly because of my involvement in basketball. This sport has the power to profoundly impact many lives in Africa, transcending various circumstances.”
“It’s merely one opportunity away. There are countless ways for this to unfold, and I’m grateful that this potential is being unveiled.”
From the Bay Area to Little Rock, and through numerous African nations, Moody’s toolkit—filled with wisdom, insights, and a broader perspective—continues to grow, and his social influence is now being realized worldwide as he enters his fourth season with the Warriors.
Moses Moody’s Inspiring Journey: From NBA Star to Coaching in Africa
Moses Moody: A Rising Star in the NBA
Moses Moody made headlines in the basketball world as a talented shooting guard. Drafted into the NBA by the Golden State Warriors, his journey from high school basketball to the professional league has been remarkable. Born on March 31, 2002, in Little Rock, Arkansas, Moody showcased his skills at Parkview Arts and Science Magnet High School before moving to the University of Arkansas, where he continued to impress scouts and fans alike.
Early Career and NBA Draft
Moody’s college career was marked by his exceptional shooting ability, defensive skills, and basketball IQ. In his freshman year at Arkansas, he averaged 16.8 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game, leading the Razorbacks to the NCAA tournament. His breakout performance caught the attention of NBA scouts, ultimately leading to his selection as the 14th overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft.
Transitioning from Player to Coach
After a promising start in the NBA, Moses Moody surprised many when he announced his intention to transition from player to coach—specifically, to share his knowledge of the game in Africa. His decision stemmed from a desire to give back to the community and help develop the next generation of basketball talent in regions where resources and opportunities are limited.
Why Africa? The Potential of African Basketball
Africa has a rich history and a growing love for basketball, with numerous players making their mark in the NBA. Countries like Nigeria, Senegal, and the Ivory Coast have produced talented athletes who have played at the highest level. However, the continent still faces challenges, including a lack of structured youth programs and coaching resources. Moses Moody recognized this gap and wanted to contribute positively.
The Benefits of Coaching in Africa
- Empowering Youth: Coaching provides an opportunity to instill valuable life skills in young athletes.
- Building Community: Basketball can foster unity and teamwork among diverse groups.
- Developing Talent: Identifying and nurturing local talent can elevate the sport’s profile in Africa.
- Cultural Exchange: Sharing basketball knowledge can lead to intercultural understanding and collaboration.
Practical Tips for Aspiring Coaches in Africa
If you’re considering a coaching role in Africa or working with youth sports programs, here are some practical tips to keep in mind:
- Understand the Local Culture: Immerse yourself in the community to build trust and rapport.
- Focus on Fundamentals: Emphasize basic skills that create a solid foundation for players.
- Be Patient: Development takes time, so celebrate small victories.
- Utilize Available Resources: Leverage local facilities and materials to conduct training sessions.
Case Studies: Success Stories from African Coaching Initiatives
Several initiatives across Africa exemplify how coaching can transform communities. Here are a few inspiring case studies:
| Program Name | Location | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Basketball Without Borders | Various African Countries | Develops skills and provides exposure to young athletes. |
| Hoops 4 Health | South Africa | Promotes health and wellness through basketball. |
| Play 4 Peace | East Africa | Uses basketball to promote peace and unity. |
First-Hand Experience: Moses Moody’s Coaching Journey
As Moses Moody set foot in Africa, he was determined to leave a lasting impact. His first coaching camp was held in Nigeria, where he worked with young athletes from various backgrounds. Through his engaging coaching style, Moody emphasized teamwork, discipline, and skill development.
Key Experiences from the Coaching Camp
- Skill Clinics: Conducted drills focusing on shooting, dribbling, and defense.
- Life Skills Workshops: Helped players develop soft skills like leadership and communication.
- Community Engagement: Participated in local events to strengthen ties with the community.
The Future of Basketball in Africa
The future of basketball in Africa looks promising, with young players eager to learn and grow. Moses Moody’s commitment to coaching represents a growing trend among former athletes who want to mentor the next generation. By investing time and resources in African basketball, he is paving the way for future stars to shine on the global stage.
How You Can Get Involved
Anyone interested in supporting basketball development in Africa can take various actions:
- Volunteer: Join local initiatives that seek coaches and mentors.
- Fundraising: Organize events to generate funds for basketball programs.
- Sponsor a Team: Support local teams by providing uniforms and equipment.
The Impact of Moody’s Journey
Moses Moody’s transition from NBA star to a coach in Africa is not just a personal journey but a significant movement towards uplifting young athletes. His dedication serves as an inspiration for others and highlights the importance of mentorship in sports. As he continues to grow in his coaching career, the impact of his work will resonate throughout the continent for years to come.
Join the Movement
Are you inspired by Moses Moody’s story? Whether you are a player, coach, or fan, there are numerous ways to get involved in the evolution of basketball in Africa. By working together, we can create a brighter future for young athletes.
Stay updated on Moses Moody’s journey and other inspiring stories in the world of basketball. Follow related hashtags on social media, and engage with communities dedicated to sports development in Africa.
