Central African Republic’s Wegscheider backed by NBA Academy mates for World Cup ticket

 DAKAR (FIBA Basketball World Cup 2019 African Qualifiers)- The Central African Republic are keen on competing in the FIBA Basketball World Cup China 2019 after sailing through to the Second Round of African Qualifiers but it’s teenage sensation Kurt-Curry Wegscheider who has been grabbing the attention ahead of the September window.

The 17 year-old played an integral part in "Les Fauves" run to the 12-team contest, playing in all 6 first round encounters.

The prodigy’s intense athleticism and acumen has earned him great admiration from fans and has been attracting praises from his mates at the Dakar based NBA Africa Academy.

Like Wegscheider, the youngsters at the NBA Academy relish the opportunity of representing their countries.

 Patrick Mwamba Kasumba, a small forward at the NBA school in Senegal missed competing for the Democratic Republic of Congo during the third window but watching his mate rival the continent's best for a World Cup ticket has fuelled his desire for success. 

“I was very happy to see Kurt play. It motivates me to work more when I see him involved in such an important tournament. We all want to play in such competitions but to get to that stage we have to toil and Kurt is showing us that hard work is the key to success. I hope that CAF can qualify for the FIBA Basketball World Cup as we will always support Kurt,”Kasumba said.

"I KNOW WE HAVE THE TALENT AND WILLPOWER TO GO TO THE WORLD CUP. PERSONALLY, IT’S AN HONOUR TO PLAY FOR MY COUNTRY AT THIS AGE."                                                                                            Wegscheider

 Despite becoming a fan favourite, the 6tf2in (1.90m) forward has stayed focused ahead of the last qualifying window that will see Central African Republic match up Nigeria, Rwanda and Mali in Group F in September.

Forty-four years after the country’s first and lone FIBA Basketball World Cup appearance in Puerto Rico, Wegscheider is cognizant only team spirit and determination will secure them a spot in next year’s planetary tournament.

"I believe in the team and I believe in myself. I know we have the talent and willpower to go to the World Cup. Personally, it’s an honour to play for my country at this age and I know it’s a giant step in my career. Qualifying for the World Cup will be very important not just for the team but for our country” Wegscheider told FIBA.basketball

The teenage hotshot has come a long way. Few years back he would have reckoned being on the books of a top European football team rather than competing in a FIBA Basketball World Cup Qualifiers.

“As a kid I played football more than basketball. I used to score a lot of goals but as time went by, I became passionate about basketball and my parents supported me in my decision. I am grateful to have a lot of talented and good people around me along the years, they have helped me become the person I am. I hope things can continue this way,” he affirmed.

Wegscheider’s humility and work ethic have earned the respect of CAR coach Marida Gabin Ulrich and captain Max Kouguere who have consistently affirmed that in a few years he will be the team’s leader.

Though such declarations may warrant increased effort, the Bangui born basketballer is willing to surpass himself.

"There’s really no pressure on me. I feel ok playing basketball. I know people expect a lot from me, so I have to give my best. My objectives are to play in the World Cup next year and become the first player from my country to play in the NBA. That’s huge but I know I have what it takes and I will work very hard to achieve that” he concluded.

FIBA