Posted on 04.04.2023 at 08:28 by Boubacar Sidiki HAIDARA
Basketball players Souleymane Berthé and Aliou Diarra carried Stade Malien at arm’s length during the Basket Africa League. They are now aiming higher.
The history of basketball is furnished with great defining duos for their teams. Magic Johnson – Kareem Abdul Jabbar, Michaël Jordan – Scottie Pipen or more recently Lebron James – Kyrie Irving, to name but a few. Even if they are still far from the level and efficiency of these illustrious players, Souleymane Berthé and Aliou Diarra allowed Stade Malien to finish 1is of the Sahara Conference during the Basket Africa League. Playing in a well-balanced team, with American and Nigerian “freelancers”, the two young Malians burst onto the screen with a full line of statistics. Berthé completed the competition with an average of 20 points and 4 rebounds per game. His friend Diarra has averaged 18 points and 13 rebounds. He even earned the nickname “Mister Double – Double”. “Their performances are simply incredible,” enthuses their trainer Kaba Kanté. The experienced coach, who has already led youth teams, says he is pleasantly surprised by the express evolution of players who “continue to progress at each stage and challenge”. His speed and strength in the racket make Diarra one of the best pivots of his generation. The athletic qualities of the former Sigui de Kayes are also highly appreciated and he is followed by many clubs, says his coach. Souleymane Berthé is described as an innate talent who is emulated at 22 years old. His three younger sisters have also embraced a career in basketball and evolve in the youth selections of Mali. Playing as a winger, Berthé can also turn into a leader, his vision of the game and his passing skills helping. The Stade Malien player is also very skilful with very precise mid-range and three-point shots.
The future of Mali?
Mali has always been able to count on talented young players. But the jump to seniors is always tricky. After the boycott of matches for unpaid bonuses in July 2022, several players have been dismissed and the selection is under reconstruction. Berthe and Diarra are already part of the elements that will serve to build a solid team. Kaba Kanté, also coach of Mali, has already planned them for the upcoming matches.
