SEED Academy Ghana marked a significant milestone on Saturday, December 28, with the inaugural SEED Sports Leadership Summit held at the University of Ghana Business School. 

The event brought together prominent figures in basketball, including the President of Basketball Africa League (BAL), Amadou Gallo Fall; former NBA player Pops Mensah-Bonsu; WNBA legend Angel McCoughtry; Star Wright, and Basketball Africa League (BAL) Vice President John Manyo-Plange, to discuss pathways for advancing basketball and leadership in Ghana. 

The summit forms part of SEED Academy’s holistic mission to combine sports with education, aiming to create future leaders capable of driving social and economic transformation. Founded in 2018 by Mensah-Bonsu, the academy has steadily built its reputation through initiatives such as the Elite Camp and Community Day of Play.  

In an interview, Mensah-Bonsu highlighted the summit’s importance in empowering young athletes beyond the basketball court.  

"We are committed to a holistic approach, combining basketball development with leadership and character building. We want these kids to not only excel as student-athletes but also succeed in life through the skills they develop here," he said.  

The summit also featured a Community Day of Play, where 100 children from local charities participated in activities led by SEED Academy students. "It’s about paying it forward," Mensah-Bonsu explained. "Our kids are learning to lead while inspiring the younger generation, which strengthens the sense of community we are building."  

Contributions from panelists  

Angel McCoughtry, a WNBA legend, emphasized the importance of representation and mentorship for young athletes, particularly women. 

"They need to see that WNBA players and NBA players care about them," she stated. "It doesn’t matter where they’re from—they can dream of being NBA players, coaches, agents, or anything else. Representation is crucial, and events like this show them what’s possible."  

McCoughtry noted the talent growth in Ghana since her last visit before COVID-19 and expressed optimism about the future. "Africa is coming. The world will soon realize the incredible talent here," she added.  

Star Wright, representing the Star Wright Foundation, spoke passionately about the role of sports in character development.  

"Sports teach values and build character," she said. "It’s important for young girls to see women succeeding in their fields, but it’s equally crucial to empower young boys with mentorship and sustainable development programs. Representation matters for everyone." 

Wright emphasized the importance of development between the ages of 8 and 18, a critical period for shaping productive citizens and future leaders.  

BAL Vice President John Manyo-Plange highlighted the significance of grassroots basketball development.  

"Even as we grow the BAL, we can’t forget the youth," he said. "Basketball teaches values and provides life lessons, while the lifestyle, fashion, and music surrounding the sport keep young people engaged."  

Manyo-Plange commended Ghana’s efforts in international basketball competitions, particularly the Spintex Knights, and expressed hope for the country’s future representation in the BAL.  

Reflecting on SEED Academy’s journey, Mensah-Bonsu reiterated the vision for continuous growth. "Consistency builds community," he said. "We aim to scale up our presence in Ghana, using basketball as a tool for economic equity and freedom."  

With plans to expand its outreach and programming in 2025, SEED Academy issued a call to action for local schools, churches, and organizations to collaborate in empowering Ghanaian youth. 

The summit underscored SEED Academy’s unwavering commitment to shaping leaders and building a brighter future through basketball and education.