MATERO Magic captain Chongo Chona has described hosting the Road to BAL 2026 tournament in Lusaka as a dream come true and a milestone for Zambian basketball. Speaking ahead of the qualifiers, Chona said the event represents significant growth for the sport in the country.
“First of all, as a team captain, there’s a lot of basketball hope in Zambia. Hosting this tournament is truly a dream come true. These are things you never expect to happen here,” Chona said. “It changes the narrative of basketball in the country. I believe we are now being recognized on the continental stage for FIBA Africa to give us this opportunity.”
Chona said the team is fully aware of the responsibility that comes with hosting the tournament. He emphasized the importance of representing Zambia with professionalism, discipline, and determination, both on and off the court.
He added that the tournament will expose local players to higher levels of competition, offering a platform to improve skills and gain experience against some of Africa’s best teams. “It’s not just about MATERO Magic or Lusaka; it’s about Zambia showing that we can host major basketball events and compete at a high level,” Chona said.
The captain also highlighted the impact of the tournament on growing fan support and inspiring young players across Zambia. He believes hosting the Road to BAL 2026 will strengthen the country’s basketball infrastructure, attract investment, and encourage grassroots development programs.
Chona concluded by urging Zambians to support the team and attend the games, emphasizing that the tournament is a historic moment for Zambian basketball and an opportunity to put the country firmly on Africa’s basketball map.