Byline: Zakhele Mtsweni
Born and bred in Esikhawini Township in Kwazulu Natal, Tutu Gama was one of the tallest boys at school and that
afforded him the opportunity to be introduced to basketball at the age of 13.
His talent in basketball led him to scoop provincial colours and during matric he was awarded a sports scholarship to study at Wits University where he opted for Chemical Engineering.
The current Sasol Secunda Synfuels employee juggle work, gym, basketball and family life.
“I live with my wife Mbali and my two boys and two girls,” said Gama whose hands are full since he also help to coach the junior and senior Unidos basketball team players as a way of giving back to the community.
He also established his own club in Secunda where he trains young basketball players every Saturdays from 1-5pm at Secunda Sasol Club Basketball Courts.
“I do this to help keep the young generation focused through basketball and also keep them out of trouble,” Gama added as he hopes to be a role model for most of them.
During his interview with Seskhona Media reporter, Gama explained that basketball gave him the opportunity to travel the world while representing the country.
Some of the countries he has visited through this sport include, Spain, Brazil, Russia, Serbia, China, Nigeria and Angola.
“I would like to give back and share my knowledge, open new doors, mentor and groom the younger generation,” Said Gama who further explained that the sport requires discipline and focus.
According to him, basketball is growing quickly in South Africa, but it is not given the same recognition as other sporting codes.
There are also not many women in the sport currently.
When asked if someone can make a career out of basketball he said, “Yes, you can make a career out of the sport playing overseas, namely Europe and USA.”
