The pride of South African wheelchair basketball, the Sasol-sponsored Amawheelaboys, have landed in São Paulo, Brazil, ready to represent not only their country but the African continent at the 2025 IWBF Men’s U23 Wheelchair Basketball World Championship.
Their journey to this global stage has been nothing short of remarkable. Earlier this year, the Amawheelaboys were crowned African champions after a commanding 51–38 victory over Libya in Johannesburg. That win secured South Africa’s qualification for the World Championship and signaled the rise of a bold new generation of talent within the sport.
Now, just months later, they are set to test themselves against the world’s best at the prestigious Centro de Treinamento Paralímpico Brasileiro from 12–20 June. It marks a significant moment for South African wheelchair basketball — a sport that has grown in visibility and stature thanks in large part to the sustained commitment from long-time sponsor Sasol.
“If you look at our partnership in the last 18 years with wheelchair basketball, we have completely changed the narrative,” said Sasol’s Brand and Sponsorships Manager, Dean Somerset. “From it being a sport played in isolation — to now being one that allows young people to travel the world at global championships.”
The South African squad, guided by head coach Simphamandla Gumbi, is brimming with belief and purpose. Gumbi, supported by assistant coaches Nichodemus Mmitlwe and Sizwe Lechesa, physiotherapist Claude Mulungwa, and team manager Katlego Mogapi, is determined to ensure the boys carry their momentum from continental success into the global arena.
“It is a great honour and exciting moment for me to be guiding these boys to the World Championship in Brazil,” said Gumbi. “I thank the technical team, the parents, and especially the athletes themselves. We are not just playing for medals — we are fulfilling lifelong dreams.”
The Amawheelaboys — captained by Petros Mlife and vice-captain Ezile Mcholwa — will compete in Group B alongside powerhouse nations Japan, USA, Great Britain, Italy, and Thailand. It is a formidable pool, but South Africa has proven their ability to rise to the challenge when it matters most.
Full South African Squad:
- Petros Mlife (Captain)
- Ezile Mcholwa (Vice-Captain)
- Sicelimpilo Sibisi
- Lusanda Manqele
- Kgotso Letsoalo
- Ntando Nokama
- Bongumenzi Biyela
- Lukhanyo Dengu
- Khanya Xundu
Group B Fixture Schedule (South African Time):
- 12 June: USA vs South Africa – 14:00
- 13 June: South Africa vs Great Britain – 22:30
- 15 June: Japan vs South Africa – 22:45
- 17 June: South Africa vs Italy – 00:30
- 17 June: Thailand vs South Africa – 20:00
The IWBF U23 World Championship brings together the best young athletes from across the globe. South Africa’s qualification is historic — not only as continental champions but as torchbearers for African wheelchair basketball on the world stage.
The Amawheelaboys’ inclusion in this elite 12-team tournament speaks volumes about the progress made in the sport locally. From the courts of Mandeville Indoor Sports Arena to the international spotlight of São Paulo, these young men have already inspired many.
Their opening match against the United States will be a major test, but also a chance to announce their arrival. With the eyes of the wheelchair basketball world watching, South Africa’s Amawheelaboys are poised to show that African champions can also be world contenders.
As preparations give way to tip-offs, South Africans everywhere can take pride in this team’s journey. They represent more than just athletic talent — they embody resilience, unity, and the power of sport to change lives.
Sport South Africa will be covering the team’s journey throughout the competition, bringing you updates, profiles, and behind-the-scenes access as the Amawheelaboys aim to make history in Brazil.
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