Former NBA Star Pops Mensah Bonsu Inspires the Next Generation with ‘Her Time To Play’ Basketball Initiative in Ghana

Introduction

In a significant move to foster female participation in sports and leadership, former NBA professional Pops Mensah Bonsu has brought the “Her Time To Play” initiative to Ghana. This groundbreaking program, organized in collaboration with Seed Academy Ghana and the NBA Africa Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Department, aims to empower young women through the medium of basketball. The initiative goes far beyond the court, offering a holistic approach to personal and professional development for teenage girls.

Held at the prestigious Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) in Kumasi, the event bridged the gap between athletic training and life skills. By focusing on girls aged 13 to 18, the program addresses a critical need for female role models and career pathways in a region where professional sports opportunities for women are still developing. This article explores the structure, impact, and future of this inspiring sports development project.

Key Points

Background

The genesis of this initiative lies in the personal journey of Pops Mensah Bonsu. As a former player for the Dallas Mavericks, San Antonio Spurs, and Toronto Raptors, Mensah Bonsu represents a rare success story of a Ghanaian in the NBA. Throughout his professional career, he maintained a strong desire to give back to his home country, specifically looking to boost the visibility of basketball in Ghana. However, the rigors of an active playing career often prevented him from launching sustained community projects.

Following his retirement from professional play, Mensah Bonsu shifted his focus entirely to sports development in Africa. The “Her Time To Play” program is a branch of the NBA’s global efforts to promote the game, but the Ghanaian iteration is uniquely tailored to local needs. The decision to host the event at KNUST in Kumasi was strategic, moving beyond the usual hub of Accra to tap into the vibrant youth culture in Ghana’s second-largest city.

The Pilot Success in Accra

The urgency and necessity of the program became clear during a pilot event held in Accra in 2019. Mensah Bonsu initially expected a modest turnout of 80 to 100 participants. Instead, the camp attracted over 400 young girls. This overwhelming response highlighted a massive gap in the sports ecosystem: a lack of structured opportunities for young female athletes. The success of the Accra pilot provided the data and motivation needed to scale the operation, leading to the more comprehensive summit in Kumasi.

Analysis

The “Her Time To Play” initiative is a case study in effective sports diplomacy and community development. Its success stems from a dual-pronged approach that recognizes basketball not just as a game, but as a vehicle for social change. The organizers understood that for young girls in Ghana, the allure of the NBA is strong, but the reality of making it as a professional athlete is statistically difficult. Therefore, the program pivots toward “holistic promotion.”

By dedicating the first day entirely to an off-court summit, the initiative addresses the “whole person,” not just the athlete. In many developing sports markets, training focuses solely on physical skills. However, this program acknowledges that mental wellness, identity, and financial literacy are foundational to success in any field. The inclusion of speakers discussing “career pathways in and beyond sports” is particularly insightful. It prepares participants for life after the game, ensuring that even if they do not turn pro, they possess the tools to succeed in other industries.

Visualizing Success

Pops Mensah Bonsu emphasized the psychological importance of representation. By bringing in successful women who look like the participants and who hold high positions, the initiative provides tangible proof of what is possible. This concept of “visualizing success” is a powerful pedagogical tool. When a 13-year-old girl sees a woman who shares her background excelling in business or sports management, the barrier to entry feels lower. It transforms abstract dreams into concrete career goals.

Practical Advice

For parents, coaches, and young athletes in Ghana and across Africa looking to replicate or join such programs, here are practical steps inspired by the “Her Time To Play” model:

• Prioritize Education alongside Athletics: Ensure that any sports program you participate in includes a curriculum for life skills. Look for workshops on confidence, mental health, and financial literacy.
• Seek Mentorship: The value of mentorship cannot be overstated. Young athletes should actively seek out programs that connect them with professionals who have navigated the transition from sports to corporate careers.
• Community Building: As seen in the Accra pilot, there is strength in numbers. Form local basketball clubs or study groups to practice together and share resources, creating a support network that sustains motivation.
• Focus on Holistic Health: Physical training is only one part of the equation. Young athletes should dedicate time to mental wellness and understanding their own bodies (body literacy) to prevent burnout and injury.
• Engage with Local Academies: Connect with organizations like Seed Academy Ghana that are actively working to bridge the gap between local talent and international standards.

FAQ

Conclusion

The “Her Time To Play” initiative in Kumasi represents a turning point for youth sports development in Ghana. By leveraging the star power and experience of Pops Mensah Bonsu, the program offers more than just basketball drills; it offers hope, direction, and tangible life skills. The initiative proves that when international expertise is combined with local passion, the results can be transformative. As the program plans to expand to other parts of the country, it lays the groundwork for a future where Ghanaian women are not just participating in sports, but leading them.