There is a very fine line between success and failure in any sport and team Kawanopado is a testament to this fact.
The 2012 edition of the Indomie Community Dunks surely belongs to the Cape Coast-based side as they continue to earn rave reviews for their impressive showing at the centre court of the El-Wak stadium.
From sheer determination, team spirit and character and the desire to be counted among the best at their level, coach Claudius Thompson’s charges relived the memory and stole the heart of many with riveting displays that got them many admirers.
One might not be far from right if they describe them as the ‘home’ of community basketball in Ghana – with a unique blend of experienced players with youth exuberance.
Strong centre boy Daniel Owusu, captain Kingsley Whyte and Anthony Duodu are no novices in the game.
They have tasted victory before and were always going to be difficult players to handle at the citadel of basketball in the West African country.
In 2009, the trio combined effectively for Hoops Care International to a stunning run to gold at the Milo Junior Ball Championship at the same venue.
It wasn’t however surprising that their partnership worked to perfection as they played influential roles in the surging run of the side.
“This is the team for the future and I have said that time without number that we’re going to dominate this competition for years to come,” head trainer Thompson said
“You have not seen anything yet because we have enough talents back home who will be playing next year.
“The dream is big and on course and I am only hoping for an injury-free season for my boys.
“Everybody saw what they could do. The court did all the talk and so let’s leaves it as that.
He continued: “There is no turning back for this team. Owusu, Whyte, Michael and Duodu were superb and expect more from them next year.”
Sometimes a team takes two steps forward, one step back as they attempt to reach the top.
Kawanopado did not have it easy during the Central regional exhibition game where they struggled to beat neighbours Djejeano-Anafo.
But as they entered the finals in the capital, the dynamics and mentality were obviously going to be different.
Some sweet flowing and attacking basketball saw them beat five teams en route to be crown champions for the first time.
Two games in particular are strong in the memory of the fans that watched the one-day competition.
Against high-scoring Burma Camp in the semi-finals, Owusu made two shot from long range en route to 18 points.
Then next, in a drama-filled semi-final game against Kwadaso, the 2009 Milo Junior Ball MVP, hit three of the five from the arch and finished with 14 points.
“I love this game and that is why I keep training hard,” Owusu said
“But the most important thing for me is how I develop my game and do everything to help my team achieve positive results.
“The quality of players, quality of people, that’s what, is most important when you want success.
“I think with the type of practice and work we do with we can do a lot next season.
“We want to be champions for many years and I believe we have started well.”
