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Hilton College basketball prodigy joins Kenyan U16 squad

Since his selection, Jowi has already represented Kenya in a match against Rwanda

A Hilton College Grade 10 pupil is making waves on the basketball court after being selected for Kenya’s U16 provisional squad.

Jowi Cole never considered basketball as either a passion or potential profession until he arrived at Hilton College in Grade 8 and discovered the sport.

Thrown into the deep end during his first week with an immediate game, he quickly developed a love for basketball that has become both a personal focus and a way to make his mother proud. “I’ve grown to love the process, meeting people through the sport, and simply loving the game itself,” Jowi said.

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The opportunity emerged unexpectedly during a trip home to Kenya, where Jowi trained with a basketball academy. His coach recognised his potential and suggested he could make the U16 national team.

“It happened very unexpectedly,” Jowi recalled. “My academy coach said I had what it takes. Then an association saw me play and invited me to their selection camp — I made the final cut.”

Since his selection, Jowi has already represented Kenya in a match against Rwanda. As a power forward and small forward — positions typically filled by the team’s tallest players that require constant court coverage for both attacking and shooting — Jowi thrives on the freedom and complete immersion the game provides.

Despite his competitive spirit and enthusiasm, Jowi admits to occasional self-doubt. “There is a fear of not being good enough especially when I compare myself to others my age, but it’s all a part of the process.

Seeing my progress, I get to see my confidence grow and ignore the noise. I also get anxiety before big games, but it helps to remember that I’ve trained a lot, so I know I’ve done this move countless times. It’s not about ego but being confident and humble in my abilities

Jowi’s ambitions extend beyond his current success. He aims to prove himself in Division 1 basketball while making his mother proud, ensuring her sacrifices bear fruit through his dedication.

“When I look back on this time in the future, I want to be satisfied, living with no regrets and no matter how far basketball takes me, I want to remember where I came from, like my mom says. To progress and remember all the lessons learned.”

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