Get ready to step into the heart of basketball's future! Our exclusive coverage takes you behind the scenes for an exhilarating inside look at the 2024 BAL Combine. This article is your courtside pass to the epicentre of basketball greatness.
Last Updated on
January 10, 2024
Ayo Biyibi
Staff Writer
In anticipation of the eagerly awaited 2024 Basketball Africa League (BAL) season, the burgeoning league took another step forward by hosting its third Combine.
Following the monumental success of the first two combines held in New York (2019) and Paris (2023), The BAL etched another historic chapter by hosting its first-ever African-based Combine in Rabat, Morocco.
This groundbreaking event marked a significant moment in the league's history, bringing the evaluation and showcasing of basketball talent to one of the most beautiful countries on the African continent, with its rich history in the sport.
This strategic move aimed at assembling and evaluating the top-tier talent from across the African diaspora and beyond allowed 30 players to grace the Yassine Omnisport Hall in Rabat, Morocco, adding an extra layer of anticipation and excitement as the league gears up for another thrilling season.
The combine, pioneered by the NBA in 1987, is a meticulously planned multi-day showcase held periodically in the lead-up to the basketball season. This event is a comprehensive platform where players undergo a series of assessments, including measurements, medical examinations and a battery of athletic tests and shooting drills.
The intensity of the combine reaches its peak as participants engage in five-on-five drills, presenting their skills and prowess before a discerning audience comprising coaches and scouts. This intricate process scrutinises the players' physical attributes and technical abilities and provides a critical opportunity for talent evaluation and selection by key basketball decision-makers.
During combines, coaches and team scouts scrutinised various factors to evaluate whether a player aligned with their team's system. In an exclusive interview with AfricaBasket.net, Rafael Barlowe, a distinguished NBA Scout who attended the last two NBA Draft Combines, shared the following insights:
“As a scout or coach at a combine, you’re looking to see who can stand out in a group of talented players in one setting. Also, you want to see if a player can showcase something you haven’t seen at prior levels. For example, if there’s a big that didn’t shoot 3’s in games but makes 15/25 in the spot shooting drills, it shows that the player has a skill set a scout or coach haven’t likely seen from him.”
The BAL Combine assessments took place on the 8th and 9th of January 2024 and saw the 30 invited players take part in a multitude of measurements, medical examinations, athletic tests, shooting drills and game scrimmages:
These include height measurements, weight, wingspan, standing reach, and body fat measurements, enhancing the depth of the evaluation process and providing a more nuanced understanding of the players' physical attributes.These meticulous measurements were undertaken to form a holistic profile of each player, contributing to a more informed assessment of their potential and suitability for the rigorous and expanded 48-game regular BAL season.
The lane agility drill gauged the player's lateral quickness and agility at peak speed. Using strategically placed cones at the four corners of the key, players performed dynamic combinations, including running, lateral shuffling, backward and forward motions, and precise cutting. While not a perfect replication of an actual game, this drill was a valuable tool for assessing and improving a player's agility and responsiveness on the basketball court.
This drill tested each player’s time it took them to sprint three-quarters of the court and was measured in seconds. While maximum running speed is crucial in basketball, the acceleration or time over the initial steps is likely even more critical.
The vertical jump was used as a pivotal assessment of each athlete's explosive leg power and served as a key indicator of their ability to generate force and lift off the ground. This fundamental test measured raw athleticism and provided insight into the player's capacity for quick, powerful movements essential in various aspects of basketball, such as rebounding, shot-blocking, and overall agility on the court.
During the basketball combine, the players underwent assessments that included uncontested spot-up jump shots, off-the-dribble shots, and moving shots from a diverse range of distances. This comprehensive evaluation gauged a player's shooting accuracy and assessed their versatility and adaptability on the court.
Participating players engaged in rigorous ball-handling drills to evaluate and refine their fundamental skills. These drills encompass a spectrum of dribbling exercises that assess a player's ability to control and manipulate the ball under varying conditions. The focus extended beyond the basic dribbling proficiency and delved into advanced techniques and quick decision-making, crucial attributes for success on the basketball court.
After completing all tests on the first day of the combine, the 30 players participated in a single five-on-five game. On the second day, the players engaged in two additional five-on-five games. Exceptional performers during the scrimmage games then earned the opportunity to showcase their skills again in a special "All-Star" game.
Like many multi-day evaluations across various fields, some individuals often exit the first day with a sense of disappointment, believing they did not meet their self-imposed high standards. This sentiment is also prevalent in combines:
“After day one, I wasn’t satisfied because I didn’t show what I wanted to show. To be recruited [by The BAL], you’ve got to show the best of yourself, but this is not something I did on the first day. I felt that I could play at this level, but I’ve got to play better.” Stated Senegalese Forward Mohammad Diop, speaking exclusively with AfricaBasket.net about his experience during the 2023 BAL Combine in Paris.
However, shedding light on the critical significance of delivering a noteworthy performance on the inaugural day of a basketball combine, seasoned scout Rafael Barlowe emphasised the following key aspects.
“It’s only natural to have some concerns if a player tests bad or his measurables fall short of expectations at the combine. But the combine shouldn’t outweigh the player's overall body or work. Some guys will test well, shoot the cover off the ball in the shooting drills and jump out of the gym but do nothing in 5-on-5 play. While others are gamers and will stand out in live competition while being average in athletic testing. I think day one is important, but luckily, there’s a second day if a player doesn’t perform well.”
In its relatively brief history, the BAL has proven to be a magnet for top-tier basketball talent, drawing in notable figures, including former NBA draftees and experienced professionals. Among these distinguished athletes were British-born Afro-Caribbean Forward/Center Ryan Richards, drafted by the San Antonio Spurs and who represented Angolan BAL club Petro de Luanda in 2021, and American guard Will Perry, who played for Mozambican powerhouse Ferroviario da Beira in the BAL over the past two seasons.
Basketball players who receive invitations to combines enter the showcase with varied mindsets and agendas. For some, it's a "kill or be killed" mentality, where the competitive spirit takes centre stage. Others aim to spotlight specific skills, strategically showcasing their strengths. Meanwhile, some perceive the event as an opportunity to prove something to themselves, utilising the platform for personal validation and growth within the context of their basketball journey.
In an exclusive conversation with AfricaBasket.net, Ryan Richards offered an insight into his previous experiences and the mindset that fuelled his preparation for the 2010 NBA Draft Combine:
“It was to go in there, make a name for myself, and let people know that I have arrived.”
Player’s approach combines with different mindsets, agendas and objectives. For some, it's a relentless "kill or be killed" approach, embodying a fierce competitive spirit. Others view the showcase as a personal challenge driven by the need to prove something to themselves.
“Every time I play, I want to prove myself to everybody that I’m a good player, and myself too. I want to prove that I’m in shape and that I’ve been working out. Every time I played [during the combine], I played the best I could.” Declared Perry, who equalled the BAL record for the most points scored in a single game during the 2023 season with an impressive 41-point display against S.L.A.C (Guinea).
Per BAL regulations, some players are mandated to attend the combine if their team was eliminated in the 'Road to BAL' qualification rounds, adding a layer of obligation to the array of motivations during these critical showcases.
Due to Ferroviario da Beira's elimination from the 2024 'Road to BAL' qualification rounds, Will Perry, who set the BAL record for most three-point field goals with nine makes during the 2023 season, was invited to the 2024 BAL Combine.
“I came to the combine because my team lost in the qualifiers, which disqualified me to play for another team in BAL unless I was invited to the combine. Regardless, I love BAL, I love the fans, I love playing in this league, so I was happy to do so.” Said the North Carolina native.
Following the conclusion of the combine, players gathered with coaches and BAL delegates for an evening dinner, providing an informal setting to delve into discussions about the showcase, the upcoming BAL season, and their professional journeys. This occasion also served as a unique opportunity for seasoned professionals to impart their wisdom to the emerging talents.
Will Perry, a highly respected and universally liked figure in the basketball community, generously shared valuable insights with many young players, contributing to the exchange of knowledge and experiences within the basketball fraternity.
“I talked to the guys about the BAL. I spoke to them about how physical the league is and how it is reffed. I even found myself being a veteran guy to some young guys that have the will to play in BAL and want to [play in it] this season. I can only help since I have a few years of experience in the league. I’m super comfortable in the environment, and I definitely want to help the young and upcoming guys, and I try to do it whenever I can.”
Continuing his remarks, he expressed:
“It’s like a fraternity man! Who am I to think I can keep all the information to myself? This is basketball; there will be a million players better than me; who am I to stay in the corner and not connect with my brothers? Professional basketball players or professionals in any field, it doesn’t have to be sports, should try to help people as much as they can.”
Out of the 195 countries worldwide, upwards of 100 have established their own basketball leagues, each exhibiting diverse levels of professionalism.
Perry, who boasts a basketball journey spanning Spain (CB Zamora and Grupo Alega Cantabria), Bulgaria (Academic Bultex 99), Luxembourg (Amicale Steinsel),and Portugal (Ovarense Gavex), attested that the BAL stands out as the most exceptional league he has ever been a part of:
“I’ve played in a lot of countries for a lot of clubs – BAL is the most professional, well-run league I have ever been in, period! When players can focus on basketball, which the BAL allows us to do, and they don’t have to worry about food, their accommodation, and stuff like that – which happens a lot – it allows us to focus on the game. I’ve been around BAL for two and a half years and never had a problem. This league is amazing!”
Two key takeaways from the 2024 BAL Combine are the assurance that the league's future is bright and that it will continue to lure top-tier basketball talent from across the globe.
With the league's continuous growth, the competition for coveted roster spots is set to intensify. In light of this, both Ryan Richards and Will Perry offered invaluable advice for potential combine invitees:
Ryan Richards:
“Try to find a genuine trust circle and mentor. But also, research, study, and watch film on your fellow players. Work with a trainer to prepare for the [BAL] combine. Do workouts with other players. When you’re in workouts, you can speak to other pros to help your game. Reach out to people like myself and other pros that have been there that will encourage you and tell you what coaches want to see, and you can prepare for that.”
Will Perry:
“Whatever you do well, whether it's shooting threes or you’re a great defensive player, try to hone in on that at the combine. Try not to go outside yourself too much because the coaches at the BAL Combine are really smart. They know basketball. Do what you’re really good at and try to do it to the best of your abilities.”
As we eagerly await the BAL rosters' to be finalised, stay locked to AfricaBasket.net on our website and social media platforms (X/Twitter and Instagram) for the latest updates leading up to the thrilling 2024 season. Your source for all the breaking news and insights as the anticipation builds for another exciting chapter in the world of African basketball.
[Image/Photography Credit: The Basketball Africa League]
[Ryan Richards & Will Perry Image/Photography Credit: FIBA]
