A lifelong passion for basketball, a winning mindset and a commitment to helping players reach their full potential: That’s the mix that has shaped Hugo Salgado into a respected and versatile coach with proven success in both European and African basketball.
A Global Coaching Journey
Born in Porto, Portugal, Salgado has built a reputation as a tactician, a motivator, a leader who transforms “underdog” teams into contenders. After successful stints in Portugal, Iceland, Norway, the Czech Republic and Cape Verde — where he led Kriol Star to make history as the first Cape Verdean team to qualify for the BAL Playoffs — Coach Hugo is ready for his next challenge. And he is open to work in Africa, a continent with incredible talent and majestic potential.
“I’m looking for an ambitious and serious project, whether at club or national team level,” he explains. “I want to work with an organization that fights in every moment, aims to win and believes in doing things the right way.”
A Relentless Passion for the Game
Salgado’s basketball journey began when he was just five years old, playing for SC Vasco da Gama in his hometown of Porto. By 16, his curiosity and passion for the game had already pulled him toward the sidelines, where he started his coaching career. After earning a degree in Journalism and Marketing, he committed himself fully to coaching, determined to build winning cultures in his international pursuit of success.
Coaching Philosophy: Adaptability Meets Discipline
Years of experience in vastly different environments have shaped Salgado into a resourceful and adaptive leader. He blends a European tactical structure with athleticism, creating teams that are disciplined, competitive and mentally tough. His squads are known for their fighting mentality under pressure and their strong family culture, which is a key ingredient in his approach.
“Budget or roster size can’t be an excuse not to compete,” Salgado emphasizes. “My teams understand that we respect all opponents, but we never feel intimidated.”
Developing Players, Building Legacies
One of Salgado’s greatest strengths is player development. He has helped athletes move from modest contracts to top leagues, national teams and high salaries by pushing them to go beyond their limits every day. With Kriol Star in Cape Verde, his leadership helped write a golden page in the country’s basketball history, proving that with the right pieces, even the most unlikely dreams can become reality.
Vision for African Basketball
Salgado believes African basketball is on the rise, with the BAL accelerating growth and raising the continent’s profile. He stresses the importance of developing young players and building strong local leagues to sustain that growth.
“With organization, hard work, and attention to detail, African basketball can be at the very top.”
Ready to Start. Eager to Win
Always with a suitcase ready, Salgado says he can join the right project immediately. His dream? To win a championship. Then another one. And another one.
His message to African clubs and federations is simple: “The way is long, but the potential is huge. I’m ready to bring my hard work, adaptability and winning mentality to help you reach your full potential. And turn your dreams into reality.”
