VANDERBIJLPARK. – There is no place to hide when you are destined for greatness.

30-year-old Lebohang Mofokeng, a professional basketball player from NWU Vaal, can attest to that.

“I was reluctant to play basketball. All I wanted to do was to play football. I never thought I would play basketball. Let alone become a pro. I believe it was my destiny. God does not put one in situations that are not meant for them,” says Mofokeng.

He only started playing basketball after matric and still regrets that he did not start sooner. He can be considered a modern-day Renaissance man: a person with genuine competence in and understanding of multiple fields.

With qualifications in civil engineering, sports science, and coaching he aspires to be a role model.

“I have the ability to inspire younger people to follow their dreams. I have a lot of kids asking me for advice. My dream is to start my own Academy and coach kids of different age groups to help put them in situations when they are done with school so that they can go to university and get qualifications. “

Even though he is rapidly climbing the ranks he is still humble as ever and does not forget where he comes from and gives credit where it is due.

“NWU Vaal definitely played a big role in my development as a player. I come from Welkom in the Free State and only started playing after matric. I knew what was expected of me and I worked hard. In my final year I captained NWU Vaal’s team,” he admits proudly.

Today this young man is a rising star in the Basketball Africa League playing for the Cape Town Tigers. He got his big break last year when he was head-hunted after a friendly match against his current team.

Since then he has become a globe trotter playing in France, Egypt, Rwanda, and Zimbabwe. He is truly a worthy ambassador for North-West University.