Khadim Mboup: “The NBA Academy Changed My Life”
Senegalese basketball player Khadim Mboup is part of a rising wave of African talent making its mark in the United States. A product of the NBA Academy Africa, the young forward has already built an impressive path, shaped by international experiences and personal challenges. Speaking to Seneweb, he opens up about what forged his mindset, developed his game, and continues to fuel his NBA dream.
A New Life Through the NBA Academy and the BAL
“To be honest, the NBA Academy was a new beginning for me,” Khadim shares. “It changed so many things. It helped me grow physically, mentally—it made me a man.”
Thanks to the elite program based in Senegal, he discovered new horizons:
“We traveled all over Europe and the U.S.”
One of the key moments in his young career was playing in the Basketball Africa League (BAL):
“They gave me the chance to play professionally in the BAL. It was a great experience.”
Although he’s not playing in this year’s edition, Khadim is closely following the BAL’s fifth season and believes in its impact:
“The BAL is a big opportunity for young players to showcase their talent and get a shot at playing pro—or even making it to the NBA.”
A Message to African Youth
For those back home dreaming of a similar path, Khadim offers simple but powerful advice:
“Take advantage of opportunities and exposure. Work hard, never stop—and you’ll succeed, inch’Allah.”
From Dakar to the NCAA
From Senegal’s capital to Utah, where Khadim now plays for BYU (Brigham Young University), the transition hasn’t been easy.
“It was tough at first, especially the weather… it’s really cold. But I stay focused on the work. I try not to think too much about the rest.”
This year, the BYU Cougars made it to the Sweet 16 in the NCAA tournament—a promising result that sets the tone for the future. Khadim is determined to be a key part of that success, but his ambitions stretch even further.
An NBA Dream, Born from Fun
What makes Khadim’s journey even more inspiring is how it started—with fun.
“I used to play just for fun. But now, it’s my goal. Inch’Allah, I’m going to the NBA. That would be a dream come true.”
And to all his fans back in Senegal, he sends a heartfelt message:
“Keep supporting me. Watch my games… it motivates me to give my best—inch’Allah.”
