BANGUI (Central African Republic) - Skilled forward Evans Ganapamo had an out-of-world experience during his brief stint in Bangui, Central African Republic (CAF).

While he has represented the CAF internationally in FIBA competitions, he has not played in competitive matches in that country, but in late August all that changed.

Evans Ganapamo made his Central African Republic national team debut during the 2019 World Cup African Qualifiers

Ganapamo signed for Bangui Sporting Club, and despite his short stay, he had a whirlwind ride.

The 2.00m (6ft 6in) forward told FIBA.Basketball being in Bagui was special.

"It's hard to explain how it felt to be there (Bangui). It was my first time in Bangui. I landed on my birthday (19 August). I got to see the country and a lot of family members," said the man who starred for Cape Town Tigers over the last two seasons. 

A few days later, Ganapamo and his Bangui teammates beat Newtech Bantou Club in a two-leg Final to win the National Championship title. 

During those finals, the Palais de l' Omnisports was at its capacity, according to Ganapamo, who is know for producing highlight reel dunks, good three-point and mid-range shooting.

"The place was just packed. It had not been this packed in 36 years. When I arrived, they packed it up. It was hard to put it into words," said Ganapamo.

He also reflected on the victory and its immediate aftermath.

Ganapamo, during the celebrations, found himself surrounded by many adoring fans and hoisted shoulder-high to cap off his memorable run.

"It felt great. They have a solid base with their local guys. They have been putting in work throughout the season and it put the team in a good place to win,” said Ganapamo.

"That being said it was an amazing feeling. I felt at home. It felt good."

Bangui Sporting Club signed some well-known names for its Road to BAL qualifiers debut in October 2022

With the championship in the bag, Bangui make a return to the preliminary phase of the Basketball Africa League (BAL) qualifiers, which tip off in October (6-12).

The CAF champions eased through preliminary round of the BAL qualifiers, but fell short in the third place playoff game of the Elite 16 Division West.

Will things be different this year? With Ganapamo in the line-up, Bangui Sporting Club have an ace in the deck. The forward played in two BAL tournaments for the Cape Town Tigers and he understands the rigours of the qualifying process.

“We are taking it one step at a time. The first step was to win the local championship. We did that. Now we have to try and get past the first round (of the BAL qualifiers),” said Ganapamo.

Being a seasoned international campaigner with the national team and at the club level, he knows how to navigate this terrain.

"Experience is important. I have been to the BAL twice. So, I know what it takes to get there. I can share my experience with the guys and hopefully, we can make something happen," said Ganapamo.

The team has also added to their coaching department by hiring Australian coach Liz Mills.

Evans Ganapamo is seen in action during a 2021 Road to BAL qualifiers against Ferroviario da Beira

Ganapamo is aware of her work in African basketball, and while they are yet to engage, he looks forward to working with Mills.

"I have not talked to Coach Liz yet and have not experienced how she coaches. When I get a chance to talk with her, it will give me a clear picture of her coaching style and methods," said Ganapamo.

*Bangui Sporting Club are in Group B, with FAP (Cameroon) and Espoir Basket Club (Gabon). The Group will also include the champions of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

FIBA