Kawhi Leonard made his way to Rwanda on Friday for the Giants of Africa Festival organized by former Toronto Raptors president and vice chairman Masai Ujiri. It was Leonard’s first-ever visit to Africa, and he marked it by unveiling a personally designed outdoor basketball court at St. Ignatius School in Kibagabaga, Kigali, on Saturday.
“I’ll keep it short, guys, you know I can talk a lot,” Leonard said. “I started designing this court probably about a month or two ago. These are some of the quotes I live by and what pushes me every day. It’s really true.”
Leonard’s court contains motivational messages such as “You Are Stronger Than You Think,” “Play Hard, Have Fun,” and “Be Great.” It was a fine gesture, but the 34-year-old wasn’t done yet.
On Sunday, Leonard hosted a free basketball camp at Club Rafiki for 50 boys and girls aged 12 to 17. They were all given shirts that the six-time All-Star had personally designed, along with his signature New Balance sneakers.
“Honored to host a Basketball Day Camp at Club Rafiki in Kigali, sharing the joy of the game with the incredible youth of Rwanda. Their passion is a reminder that basketball is more than sport! It’s a bridge to Dreams, Discipline, and Hope.”
Rwandan President Paul Kagame was also in attendance at this camp, and it would have been an unforgettable day for everyone involved. This camp concluded Leonard’s four-day trip to Rwanda, and he’ll be heading off to Asia later this month for a 10-day tour.
Kawhi Leonard And The Clippers Aim For Glory In 2025-26
Leonard is currently inspiring youth across the world with his actions, and the Los Angeles Clippers would be hoping he can lead them to glory in 2025-26. The Clippers were one of the best teams in the NBA post the All-Star break last season (19-9 record) and had momentum by their side heading into the postseason. Unfortunately, they didn’t go too far.
The Denver Nuggets eliminated the Clippers in seven games in the first round of the playoffs. It was the third year in a row that they had been knocked out in round one, and there was no injury excuse this time around.
The Clippers just came up short and responded by making some notable additions this offseason. They acquired John Collins via trade and signed Bradley Beal, Brook Lopez, and Chris Paul in free agency.
The Clippers still aren’t one of the favorites to win it all next season, but they should be one of the better teams in the Western Conference. If Leonard, who averaged 21.5 points, 5.9 rebounds, 3.1 assists, 1.6 steals, and 0.5 blocks per game in 2024-25, stays relatively healthy, they will give plenty of headaches to the heavyweights in the West.
