Red Bull Half Court National Finals Crown South Africa’s First Streetball Champions
The court was set, the energy was electric, and a milestone was achieved as the first-ever Red Bull Half Court National Finals took place at Wits University in Johannesburg on 13 September 2025. After weeks of intense qualifiers in Cape Town, Durban, and Pretoria, South Africa’s top men’s and women’s streetball teams battled it out for national glory — and the chance to represent Mzansi on the global stage in Dubai this November.
In the final showdown, the men’s national title went to the MBB Blue Soldiers (Nino Dim, Lebesa Selepe, Neo Mothiba, and Rabbi Belolo-Lou). On the women’s side, the Hoop Hustlers (Lauren Fredericks, Monicah Tlou, Khanyi Maphisa, and Liyabona Sahnnon Nondala) claimed the championship. Both teams will now carry South Africa’s pride to the Red Bull Half Court World Final in Dubai, where they’ll go head-to-head with some of the world’s most skilled and creative streetball squads.
The tournament delivered basketball in true Red Bull style — fast, fierce, and unapologetically bold. Beyond winning, teams competed under the unique “Own the Court” rule, where putting up the highest scores was just as crucial as securing victories, making every basket count.
Fans enjoyed more than just basketball, with the day featuring music, cultural showcases, and community gatherings that reflected the global energy of streetball.
“We have just been crowned champions of the South Africa Red Bull Half Court and booked our ticket to Dubai! You only get one shot at this thing called life, so keep firing!”
Speaking after their triumph, men’s team captain Lebesa Selepe said:
“We’re so excited to head to Dubai! I’m grateful to share this journey with such an amazing group of ladies; we’ve had so much fun already, and I know the experience will be incredible.”
Women’s captain Lauren Fredericks echoed the excitement:
Backed by Fila and Spalding, and amplified locally by official media partner 5FM, the Red Bull Half Court National Finals marked a new era for South African basketball. With champions crowned, anticipation now shifts to November, when the MBB Blue Soldiers and Hoop Hustlers take on the world in Dubai.
👉 Visit the Red Bull Half Court site for more details.