In the heart of Kigali, Rwanda, a young boy named Wilson Nshobozwa was born on June 26, 1998, with dreams as big as the African sky. Fast forward to the present, and at the age of 25, he has become a basketball sensation, known not only for his skills on the court but also for his contributions to his community. This is the remarkable journey of a man whose passion for basketball led him to achieve greatness, both as a player and as a role model.
Wilson’s love affair with basketball began in 2011 when he was just a student at G.S APE Rugunga in Kigali. His passion for the sport ignited like wildfire, and it would soon become the driving force behind his life’s journey. In 2016, Wilson’s professional career officially started when he joined Espoir BBC. His remarkable talent and dedication to the game quickly made him stand out in the Rwandan basketball scene. For two years, from 2016 to 2018, he honed his skills and established himself as a rising star.
In 2018, a new chapter began as Wilson made a pivotal move to REG BBC. It was here that he truly started making waves in the National Basketball League of Rwanda (NBL Rwanda). Over the next two years, he continued to impress with his finesse and leadership on the court. The year 2022 was a tale of two halves. Wilson spent the first half of the year with APR BBC and the second half with REG BBC. However, a twist in the story occurred as he began the present season with APR BBC on loan from REG BBC.
Career Achievements
Wilson Nshobozwa’s career has been nothing short of spectacular. He has been named to the BAL All-Defensive Team and received the prestigious BAL Ubuntu Award in 2022. His list of achievements includes three consecutive RBL championships from 2021 to 2023 and the honor of being named the RBL Playoffs MVP in 2023. He has also clinched the Rwandan Cup twice, in 2019 and 2020. Wilson Nshobozwa’s impact transcends the basketball court. He is a Christian, deeply rooted in faith like his mother, and he proudly carries a long surname that he translates to mean “I am able to do everything because of God.” His commitment to faith and community is evident through his involvement with Club Rafiki, where he helps children and young adults integrate into society through basketball.
His coach at APR BBC, Murray Dean, raves about Wilson’s talent, “ His the best not only in Rwanda but also beyond its borders”.
His friend Samuel Umutiti speaks of his character, describing him as a good man who brings happiness to those fortunate enough to be his friend.
Wilson Nshobozwa’s journey is an inspiring tale of talent, determination, and the power of giving back to the community. From the streets of Kigali to the heights of the National Basketball League of Rwanda and the Basketball Africa League, he continues to shine as a beacon of hope and success for aspiring athletes and a true ambassador of the sport. His story reminds us that with faith, dedication, and a heart that cares for others, we can all be enabled to achieve greatness, just like Wilson Nshobozwa.
