More than a game: 15 years of hoops and hope
Platinum Weekly newspaper | Royal Bafokeng – Six championship games, more than 5,000 spectators and 15 years of giving young people a chance to shine: Royal Bafokeng Basketball (RBB) had plenty to celebrate as its anniversary week reached an exciting finish on Saturday 19 September 2026.
Hosted by Royal Bafokeng Sports, the celebrations ran from 14 to 19 September, bringing together players, coaches, officials, alumni, schools and community members. Beyond the trophies and entertainment, the week celebrated the people whose commitment has helped basketball grow across the Royal Bafokeng Nation.
According to the programme, RBB has reached more than 10,000 young people directly and indirectly over the past 15 years. More than 100 teams from 40 schools participate, while coaches and officials developed through the programme have progressed to national and international levels.
Taking basketball to the community
The week began with school activations at St. Michael Primary, Bubuanjwa Primary, Kana Primary and Mathlware Primary, drawing more than 500 people daily. Demonstrations and entertainment by the Top Gs Dunk Squad, alongside a collaboration with Soweto Basketball Academy, brought plenty of excitement to the school visits.
The celebrations also proved that there is no age limit to joining the action. On 18 September, the Golden Age Basketball Clinic welcomed 120 participants aged 60 and older, encouraging active living, social connection and fun through sport.
That evening, more than 150 guests attended the RBB Gala Dinner, where academic and sporting achievers, alumni and dedicated staff received recognition. RBB alumnus Phenyo Tshwantsho delivered the keynote address, reflecting on his journey through the programme and how sport can help shape young lives. His message prompted calls for more opportunities to engage and inspire the next generation of Royal Bafokeng youth.
Six titles, one unforgettable finish
On 19 September, supporters gathered for the RBB League Finals, with six titles contested across the U14, U16 and U18 boys’ and girls’ divisions. The 2026 champions are:
• U14 girls: Kitsong School
• U14 boys: Lebone II College
• U16 girls: Molotlegi Secondary
• U16 boys: Lebone II College
• U18 girls: Thethe Secondary
• U18 boys: Charora Secondary
Lebone II College enjoyed a particularly memorable day, claiming both the U14 and U16 boys’ titles.
Basketball guests Zeph Masote and Franck Traoré joined the celebrations, while a live performance by amapiano artist LeeMckrazy brought the anniversary week to an energetic close.
For RBB, the milestone was about more than the final score. It celebrated 15 years of teamwork, opportunity and community pride – and the young people still finding their feet, their confidence and their future on the court.
