Upclose & Personal with Ben Ayugi | Basketball Star at 18 YEARS

Ben Ayugi, actually not even ditched, decided to pursue his basketball dream in the United States, left everything familiar right here. And at just 18 years old, he's reshaping and rewriting history of what it means to chase success in basketball. He's actually on his way to becoming a legend and he's live with us in the studio. Karibana, great to have you. Before we came on the air, we are having a conversation and even yesterday when we spoke, you told me you speak pure suili. >> Yeah, sure. >> Right. >> So, you know some two three shang or slang words right here in >> I've not I've not spoken shang in a while though cuz I've not had a chance when I was there. >> But you speak uh fluent. >> I can speak. >> Right. So, let me get to know you a little bit. At just 18 years old, you're thriving in basketball in the United States. It's interesting and stunning. At 16, you moved from Kenya to pursue this whole big world of opportunities on your own. >> How did you do that? >> I mean, it was tough cuz at that time, I didn't even know that I could have done something like that, like leave my country, go outside and play basketball. But it all happened because I was able to play well in front of a scout who came to watch me when I was playing in the national team >> in Casarani Stadium. And because of that, he watched me. He really liked how I played and he told me that he has an opportunity for me to go play in the US in a prep school, >> right? >> Yeah. It was really crazy. >> So, was that through a scholarship or a sponsorship program? >> It was through a scholarship. The prep school paid for everything and all I had to do is just be there. >> When you say prep school, what does it mean? >> A prep school is just a school in the US that helps you get into college. So, it teaches you like how you have to be in order to get into college, right? >> And also, they help you get better in college level sports. >> Yes. Yeah. >> And while you right here in Kenya initially because you moved at 16 formative years right here in Kenya, what were they like in terms of education and family wise? >> Um education I was in 844 system until around 2022 when I got a scholarship to go play at Nairobi International School where I played there for a year and then that's when I got my scholarship to go to play in the US. >> Right. >> And before basketball I actually used to be a swimmer. So >> all of >> from when I was six till around 2021 is when I used to do swimming. >> Right. >> Then I grew in 2020 I grew to like 64 >> and then from there I just realized that maybe basketball might be the thing for me. >> Right. So you're 69. >> I'm 6'9 right now. >> Wa. Meaning that you're likely to even grow and become extremely taller. >> I don't know if I want to be taller, but yeah. >> Yeah. Cuz if you're only 18 years old, by the time you're 25, definitely there's still there's still room to grow. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. So just a little bit of your story. How was your upbringing upbringing in terms of uh parenting? Were your mom and dad extremely passionate about your talent? Were they supportive when you told them that you want to pursue basketball? What were the earlier conversations like? >> Uh my parents have been extremely supportive. I don't think I would have made it half halfway to where I am if I didn't have them. Um my parents my dad especially always used to make me go for practice even if I didn't want to. >> Yes. Yes, the first few years were rough for me cuz I didn't like basketball as much as I do now. >> Why? >> Why? I feel like I didn't have like everyone else was way above me cuz I started really late. >> So, I always felt like I was behind and I didn't really have the skill level that everyone else had. >> But you still you are now 18. You still had time to discover yourself. >> Yeah. But I just felt like I didn't have enough time then. But then my dad always pushed me. He didn't let me sit down or just say I'm not good enough. >> Push me to be better. Yeah. Right. >> And he still does to this day. >> Right. >> Yeah. >> And mom is actually with you live in the studio even though she's behind the scenes. So, uh, Dad was supportive. What did mom say when you said you want to pursue basketball? >> Mom was extremely supportive. I feel like >> she's the one as much as dad pushed me to to do basketball. She's the one who helped me through the hardest times when I was playing basketball, >> right? >> Like she always was there for me. >> Yes. >> So now, uh, what year now did you now transition from Kenya to the United States? This was in August 2024. Right. The I had just played in the Kenya team games in Tanzania before I left for the US. >> Yes. >> Yeah. Those didn't go that well. We got bronze. But it was a good experience for me. >> Yes. >> So in August 2024, I flew out to the US and I went to Trinity Bowling. This is a school in upstate New York. >> Right. >> Yeah. >> And that was when you were 16 years. >> That's 16. Yeah. >> Are you able to remember some of the vivid uh encounters that happened? Because you're only 16. you're underage and here you are in this land of opportunities. Uh what was that journey like immediately you transition especially from Kenya and your first uh let's say early early days landing in the United States? How did you familiar familiarize yourself with the culture, the people? How did you make friends in that academy? How did it go if you to tell that story? >> I would say it was hard. Like it's so different the first time you land in the US especially if you're going to school there. It's like a huge culture shock. >> Everyone's talking different. They don't understand your accent. >> What? You had a Kenyan accent? >> Yeah, I was talking a Kenyan accent and I had to start I had to start twanging so they understand me. >> Wow. >> Yeah. So, it was really it was a bit uncomfortable trying to like be able to make friends there. >> Yes. >> So, what I really did was just using basketball, I was able to I was able to make friends easily cuz you know, you're always with the team, you're always talking to people. >> Yes. Yes. >> So that's how I was able to make friends easily. >> Yeah. So who was your first friend? Do you remember? Are you still friends with the person? >> Yeah. Uh he's called Liam actually. He's my roommate. He was white. >> Right. >> But you've made friends with almost everyone cuz Yeah. You're an easy breezy guy. Literally. >> You blend in with almost everyone. Yeah. Easily. Yeah. So your friends as well with both. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. So maybe what were the conversations like? cuz you know sometimes I've I've had a chance to I schooled at a school where you know sometimes skin was an issue way back cuz I think I was the darkest in terms of skin color I'd say. So I received some sort of like flak. How was it for you? >> I mean there's obviously going to be some people who are always like yo how is Kenya like? Do you guys have do you guys have like big houses? Do you have buildings in Kenya? Cuz most people in the states don't really know how Kenya is. So, >> I feel like when I was there, I really had to show them how beautiful and amazing Kenya actually, >> right? >> Yeah. To be honest, I don't think they really learn much about other countries out there, >> right? And they think it's actually Africa is a is a country. >> Yeah. They think >> Nigeria is like a village. Kenya is like a village, too. But we have 54 countries right here. >> So, how did you break that barrier? cuz it can be annoying sometimes when you're meeting people people like you who can't just believe that you're a human being like them coming from a real place. It's just that you know you're on different continents and resources and infrastructure is different. So how did you now start to ingratiate yourself in different circles of uh your comrades and I can see some of your videos you are talented. >> I can see you're right there live in action. Yes. So what's happening right over there? Was that a game that you had just finished playing? >> Uh, that was actually one of our league games. We're playing against the Marshesburg Academy, >> right? >> Yeah, it was a really good game. We won by like 25 points, >> right? >> How many times did you score? >> I scored like 11 times. >> Wow. So, it means that you marged top of the lead. Yeah. >> No, my teammates are really good at they had a lot of points as well. Yeah. >> Yeah. So, for how many matches in your training camps have you held? Uh we usually have 22 matches uh during the season, >> right? >> And then you have the playoffs after the season, >> right? >> Yeah. >> Maybe you can tell us a little story of the preparations to go to these matches cuz most of the time even when you're doing commentary, always is just the final live action while you guys are busy, you know, in showdown. What usually happens before you guys get to such showdowns? >> Uh it's a long process. So first off, you all go to the locker room at school. The coach gives you like a pep talk. He gives you your scouting matchups then like you just but then after the coach leaves and he's talked and given us all the information that we need before the game the team comes together. We all like hype each other up. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. You know the locker room is always has to be hype or you guys aren't going to win the game. >> You always have to lift each other up. Then after that you play music. For me I prefer like relaxed music to like get me >> right >> get me ready for the game. Then we all get to the bus. >> Yes. When we get to the place where we're playing, it's just about warming up and making sure like stuff like your knees >> are ready for the game cuz Yeah. When you're this, your knees are usually the biggest problem. >> Yeah. >> So, you're just warming up and stuff, >> right? I'm I'm trying to understand. It's It's abbreviated. It's American high a AU basketball culture maybe. What does it mean? What What is the abbreviation for a AU? >> It's amateur athletics union or something like that. Yeah. >> Right. M. >> So maybe how was it before you actually joined it? Did you? >> Um, so AU is like it's like club. So you have the high school basketball then you have club basketball, >> right? >> So club basketball I did club basketball only for two years. The two years I've been there. >> Yes. >> And it at first it was a bit hard cuz like you're playing against all the top prospects >> and I felt like I was also behind when I first joined the US. >> Yes. I mean, when I first joined AU, >> so it was a bit of a struggle, but this year I played, I feel like it was a lot better. It was easier to play in AU, cuz in AU, you're just playing against a lot of hundreds of different teams >> from all over the country. >> Mhm. >> Yeah. And you're playing against top prospects from everywhere, >> right? >> Right. Uh I'm saying you represented Kenya at some point at a youth level competition before you left. >> Yes, I've represented Kenya. >> Please talk about it. Uh how did it get bathed and how did you get there? Um, so this happened in was it 2024? Yep. When I was called up to the national team and we were actually practicing at Upper Hill, the high school. So they called us up there and we were all staying there. Uh, we're working with coach Martin from the Kenya team and he just called me up and said, "Ben, I'd like you to come play with our team." >> Yes. >> And so I would go there every day. We would practice and then we'd stay with the whole team and from then on we would go play games in Tanzania. >> Yes. >> Yeah. >> Right. So did it like maybe boost your in terms of your dexterity in terms of your skill? Maybe also maybe you can let educate me what are some of the skills that you really need for you to be this kind of a basketballer that you are in terms of uh how you play and turn out excellent. Um, I feel for the skill it depends on what position you play. But in terms of just you as a person, I feel like you really have to have mental strength. You have to be able to go through adversity and be able to >> like be able to play through bad things happening to you or people talking to you. >> You have to be able to play through that and not let it get to your head. >> Yes. >> In terms of skill at my position, I think you just have to be athletic and strong, >> right? >> Cuz Yeah. When you play there, you'll meet a bunch of massive people who are like 200 of 150 kg. You have to be able to stop them from scoring all like every possession, >> right? >> Yeah. >> At this level, you're playing because you've told me you're just about to finish your senior high school, right? >> Right. And then you graduate and then maybe become an IT engineer or an engineer in any whatever specific field. Yeah. So maybe how you balancing this between you playing basketball initially you are to be a swimmer and then I'll have to graduate and then become a pro basketballer. >> Um balancing it is I feel like it's easier once you have basketball as well cuz basketball makes you more t it helps you manage your time better. >> So if you have lift in the morning like we usually have lift in the morning then you have practice in the afternoon. Yeah. >> Right after practice you just go clean up and then you go straight into the books. just read for at least an hour or an hour and a half. >> Then from there you can go do you can hang out with your friends. >> You can do anything you need to do like in the extra time that you have. So I feel like that helps you balance your time >> especially in season because season gets rough but if you have that extra time after practice and after games you can always balance academics >> right and I'm also interested maybe to discover from your own uh description and mindset how is it playing basketball right here in Kenya in your early formative years and stepping into the United States uh specifically the basketball aspect I know each each and every one of us who leaves Kenya to go to the United States you will definitely get that culture shock yeah you will definitely get it unless you've been there before. Yes. So, how is it in terms of basketball in terms of maybe difference uh the way it's done here and over there in the United States? >> There's two main things I noticed. First of all, everyone everyone in the US can shoot, >> right? >> Like they shoot at in a crazy percentage compared to in Kenya, >> right? >> And then the second thing is how fast the game is. Like someone scores, everyone is already on the way back to defense or someone's already going for >> like what's happening in this clip right over here. Yes, you're in blue. Yes. >> Yeah, that's me in blue. >> So, this is We were playing This is actually a I was playing with a team called the New Jersey Shore Shots. >> New Jersey Shore Shots. Okay. >> Uhhuh. Or Team Rio. >> It looks like you're the tallest. >> Yeah, surprisingly. >> Yeah. >> I've been the tallest in most of the games I play. >> Interesting. Yeah. >> Does that make you uh does that make people pick at you or you get instant recognition even from the coaches and the fans? >> Yeah. A lot of people see me and they're always like, "Oh my god, he's tall." >> They gravitate towards you, right? >> So you become so sort of like a star in these games. You are a star of course. Yeah. But literally you become like attention spotlight is on you. Yes. What about here? >> Here I was playing with a team called Zero Fears which is uh Jeremiah Fears an NBA players AU team. >> Right. So that was me playing with uh his son Jamar I mean his brother Jamari Fears >> Jamari Jamari >> Fears sounds familiar in the in the basketball >> uh sphere right? >> Yeah. So this is all just AU basketball. I mean we play in this AU basketball we play like six games a week. >> It's just game after game after game. >> So you have to stay in shape. You have to keep your body right >> right. >> Yeah. >> I don't have you mentioned how it feels playing basketball here in the United States. >> Yeah. Um, when I first got to the States, I always thought I was going to be like a point guard. Like, cuz I thought I was going to be one of the shorter guys, >> right? >> So, I always wanted to like go dribble the ball and to shoot a lot. >> But then when I got there, I realized like at my height, I need to be able to play physically and like push people under the room and score. >> Yes. >> So, yeah, I feel like it was a big culture shock cuz I didn't expect that. And every time I would dribble, there would be a small guard who's there to take the ball from me, >> right? >> Yeah. So I really had to change how I played cuz in Kenya I felt like I was able to dribble the ball from one side to the other and just score. >> Yes. >> But when once I got there I really had to change my game. >> Mhm. >> Right. So would you say that has made you in terms of if you are to if NBA I don't know the age bracket that the NBA looks at in terms of drafting. Can they draft an 18y old? They don't do that any that much anymore. Unless if I was in college maybe, but most of the time they draft people in um college 18 to like 25. >> Yeah. Why not you? You will be drafted. I believe >> I'm still in high school. >> You're looking for Oh, you're still in high school. So, you must graduate and get to college first. Yeah. >> Also, in rare occasion, hardly they do high school. >> Yeah. >> Right. But you're 18. Definitely when you turn 19, NBA will be knocking at your door. And I'm also interested as well to understand uh why is it why is the NBA the ultimate bomb for every young basketballer. >> I mean it pays it pays a lot and it's always it's the best talent in the world. All of the best players go to play in the NBA. I mean as a basketball player once you get to the NBA you know you've reached the peak level of athletic performance in basketball >> right. >> Yeah. And also they pay a lot of money as well. >> Right. Do you know any Kenyans? Have you met any Kenyans or heard of any Kenyans who are signed in the NBA or drafted? >> I've not heard of any actually. No. >> Right. >> Yeah. >> Right. And and maybe if you are to specifically pinpoint the people that you look up to who are gotted to you in terms of basketball in the NBA, who are they and maybe what are you picking from them in terms of skill and the game play and how they come off in terms of personality too as well that you say this one got, this one got and I admire them. It has to be LeBron, Kyrie. >> Of course, LeBron. >> LeBron. >> Steph Curry. For >> me, it's LeBron, Kevin Durant, and Kyrie Irving. >> Kyrie, not Steph. Not >> Not Steph. Kyrie. >> Kyrie. Okay. >> I love Kyrie. Yeah. >> Right. Why? Why LeBron? >> LeBron I just love how he plays. I love how he just bodies people. Like his game is so versatile. I feel like if I can develop myself to be versatile and play different positions and do different things on the court, I can really make it for. And on top of that, he's I like how he goes. He plays through contacts. So yeah. >> Yeah. The other one you said is uh Steph. >> No. Uh Kevin Durant. >> Oh, Kevin Durant. Yeah, Kevin Durant. He's got it. Oh, he's got it. I love Kevin Durant. Why Kevin? >> Uh that was the one guy I've always wanted to play like cuz I just love his jump shot is amazing, >> right? He's retired, right? >> No, no, he's still playing. >> Oh, he's still playing. Kevin Durant is playing. >> Oh, then I'm behind M. Yeah. So, yes. Actually, if LeBron is still playing, definitely Durant. The other guy you said >> was Karavin. Yeah. One >> I just love his game is so smooth. I I love how he plays. It's amazing watching him. >> Right. >> Yeah. >> Right. If you were to look at your story and how you've built yourself and moving to the United States, maybe what would you say right here in Kenya that needs to be done better in terms of nurturing and promoting a basketball talent for, you know, youngsters like you? I think it only takes maybe some sort of like a fellowship or a sponsorship for you to get to that kind of level that you are right now. Maybe in Kenya. What are we not doing right in terms of bringing us to the map? >> It's honestly we don't have any facilities to facilitate anyone growing as a basketball player. >> We bar I mean I feel like >> after going to the US I feel like having indoor facilities really helps grow your game cuz especially the shooting thing if you can't shoot and you're not like my height they people won't really notice you. So in order for us to develop better shooters, we need better facilities. And that comes with building indoor courts, even changing the way we uh train kids. Instead of training them just to run fast and go for fast breaks, we can start with shooting from a young age. >> Shooters really get a lot of stock in the US >> and in higher leagues, >> right? And I believe also funding cuz even when you look at what happened with was was it AFCON? Did you follow up by the way on AFCON when it was being hosted? Football. You follow up on football too? I I only follow the World Cup. >> Oh, you only watch the World Cup? Yeah, because you're in the United States. >> And I also watch the Sagal versus Morocco game for >> Of course, man. I know. I know. I know. I know. But yeah, those there's a bit of things that need to be adjusted and and I think like you rightly said, there's a lot to be done in terms of investment and mostly funding cuz when you look at the imagine a person who's talented as you are, if they wouldn't have gotten this kind of opportunity, you'd just be in here trying to scramble for something, you know, solid and valid. And now let me ask you in terms of friendships and networks, are there things that you had or layers of yourself that you've had to shed off to become the person that you are? In short, I'm asking some of the sacrifices and the disciplines. You're only 18. You have a bigger life ahead of you. What are some of the things that are shaping you in your life profile right now currently from friendships, networks, family circles? I feel like yeah I family and friends have shaped me into who I am today. I've had to really mature and become more of like a strong man cuz before >> Don't tell me you're a firstborn. Are you a firstborn? >> I'm a second born actually but I'm the firstborn son. >> Oh firstborn son out of a family of >> uh four kids. Yeah. >> Of four kids. And you are the second born. >> Yeah. >> Wow. Okay. >> Kind of deputy firstborn. >> Yeah. >> Go ahead. >> Yeah. What was I saying? Um yeah my friends and family have really shaped me into who I am today. Especially when I first went to the US, I was really timid. I didn't really do like go for what I wanted or >> show like any aggression towards anything. >> But then having friends in the US who really push me and tell you, you got to show that >> you want this. You got to show that you like you're going to be aggressive and play hard. I feel like that's really shaped me into being more of who I am today. And my family has also helped me keep the other side like >> you need to also be empathetic to people. But my mom has always told me like you shouldn't like treat anyone how you don't want to be treated. >> So I I feel like those two sides have helped me keep who I am today. >> Right. But over in terms of friends, do you have a lot of friends or cuz once you start pursuing your dream sometimes I don't know what usually happens either some friends just die or you get friends who are busy and maybe you only relent on a career level. Maybe did you have to choose the kind of friends that you basically hung out with and also maybe during that transition cuz when you leave a country you definitely some networks die some people stop talking to you even your number changes you have a US number bro >> yeah how was that how was that part in between >> I mean yeah I feel like right now mo most of basically all the people I talk to play basketball >> cuz I feel like ever since I left those are the people I >> relate with the most. >> So, I've lost I've not I've lost a lot of people who I used to talk to like every day and now I don't even see them or talk to them at all. >> Yeah. >> So, I feel like that changes the more you focus on something. >> Right. Does it feel you know sad sometimes? Of course it might. >> I mean, not >> because you would grow some friendships anyways and some people just like you know what I didn't want to lose you but because I'm pursuing my destiny then this is the price I have to pay. But let me ask you as well in terms of skill uh what you've learned in the United States if you are to be less margin creatively uh somebody who's watching this show right now shout out to Marel you said you've heard of him he he also lived in the United States in the UK too and he's managing Nairobi city Thunder a very big Kenyan basketball team if you are to be part of his uh group in terms of giving advice skill mentorship what are some of the skills that you've said you've harnessed or harvested or horned in the United States from your experience if you to be called for a forum you'd say from this upcoming talent pool of upcoming talent this is what I'd impart in them as I still continue on my journey to legendary status >> by skilled you mean basketball or just life >> you can be let's let's go maybe basketball and then life training at large >> basketball like I said it has to be shooting shooting would be the number one thing I would teach them >> secondly I would teach them something like as little as footwork cuz being able to move >> footwork, >> being able to move your feet, pivots, like just being able to balance and be confident in what you're doing, >> but with your feet helps a lot. >> Mhm. >> And one more thing is ball handling, especially for the little guys cuz >> you have to be able to move with the ball in order for you to be a threat on the floor, >> right? >> Yeah. And then in terms of life, >> life training. >> Life training. I think you just need to be confident. Confidence takes you a long way. >> Yeah. >> And if you don't really believe in yourself, you won't make it that far. >> Yes. uh other than confidence, mental strength. You need to be able to be able to handle what might happen to you when you're there because you never really know something bad could happen. >> And if you can't physically or mentally go through that, then >> Yes. >> you're just going to stagnate. >> Yeah. >> Let me ask you, uh for how long are you back in the country? Cuz you you you had mentioned you you've been in the country, I think, uh 2 weeks now. >> Two weeks. Yeah. >> Yes. Are you heading back soon? >> Yeah, actually next week. >> What? >> Yeah. >> I thought you here for No, not for good. can't be for good because you have to finish up your school and training and everything. Yeah. >> Right. So maybe what are you looking forward to in terms of um cuz I think you've mentioned that part if you were to impart in terms of live training maybe are there things that you've missed uh that you're going to carry back to the United States from home. >> I mean I' I've missed Chapel so much but I can't really >> Why can't mom send it via DH? I I don't think he'd be good by the time he gets there. But yeah, when I got home, I ate chapo for like six days straight. >> You mean chapos are not found. You can never find an African. It's not easily found in Africa. >> It's not easily. A Kenyan restaurant is not easily found. >> Easily found in uh You currently live in New Jersey. >> New Jersey. There's only one in New York, but that's like an hour from an hour 30 where I stay where I stay. >> By Baro, train or flight? >> Uh by train. >> By train. Yeah. Right. >> Yeah. >> So you miss chapati. What other dish? For me, it's just been I've always loved chapo beans. That's Chapo beans. Chapans. Oh, that's that's interesting. What other meal when you're in the United States do you miss? You don't miss ugali. For me, gali chicken. If it's not there, I'll find a way I'll find a way of carrying una. >> For me, I didn't miss ugali. I only miss I miss chapo and mocha. >> Chapo. Slaps. It's lavs. It's loves a lot. Yeah. >> And what are some of the food stuffs that you'd say you majorly consume or eat in the United States? We eat a lot of rice and grilled chicken. That's especially as athletes. Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Most athletes will mostly, especially just to keep up with the protein intake, you'll take a lot of grilled chicken, >> rice, and then occasionally cuz it's a boarding school, they'll make the food is really good there. >> Yes. >> They'll make uh like potatoes, steak, >> uh fried chicken. Like we have different types of foods and they all help athletes to like perform better. Yeah. >> Right. >> What about uh I always see Ash speed. You know Ash speed? Yeah, you're a big fan too as well. Big fan. I was watching his stream yesterday. I think he met this guy called Nitro Camden who the mom had kicked him out of the house because he was streaming. But what do you think of that? Uh so this is what happened. Uh there's a there's an 18. He's actually 18 years just like you are. He was streaming on Twitch. But again, there was a very I'd say absurd and sad moment where the mom just came and started beating him live on stream. And the reason why the mom was beating him is because he didn't want him to stream. maybe he wanted him to do something else. But then in the stream in the in the videos that were captured by Clippers, there's a place where the mom tells him he brings no value to the household. He should move out. So that c that was captured by other blogs and you know other social media clippers. It went viral and Kaisen and the rest of Streamer University came to his aid. They moved him out of his mom's house. They bought him a house. the body maka and his Twitch followers and even uh kick followers including I believe YouTube too just skyrocketed and yesterday I was watching a speed stream he actually met him and speed shared the same same experience where when he was trying to you know stream the mom didn't want him he even kicked him out he was homeless he was underage what do you make of such situations though uh especially maybe with parents who they don't like believe what the child wants they want the child to do something that they want. Um, how do you reconcile that in your own opinion? >> I feel like it's really sad cuz I don't think as much as a parent your parent is your your mom or your dad, I don't feel like they have that much of a say in what you want to do or what you should be. I feel like at a certain age, your parents should let you do what you believe is best for you and not what they think is best for you. Because I've seen a lot of times when people had a talent or they had a really skill, but their parents believe they should go be doctors or engineers and they shouldn't pursue this thing. >> Yeah. >> And obviously the child doesn't really want to do that. So they don't have motivation and they end up either not liking what they doing or they end up depressed like so I feel like it's more important for a kid to do what they want to do than what the parent believes they should do. >> Yeah. >> But I also believe maybe when you're still underage at least follow moms and dads you know. I mean to some extent but also mom and dad should listen to what you want to do and at least understand it or acknowledge it. >> Yeah. So let's sit on the table and have a conversation. Is what you want really viable? Can we invest in it? Is it worth it? Yeah. So think here maybe there should be both sides of you know the equilibria and trying to you know bring that up. Now uh still on your on your profile uh when you move to the United States and now that you're back what do you appreciate the most in terms of uh let's say opportunities and talent how do you see Kenya in your own lenses in terms of us you know trying to still we I think we're doing well even in football because Talanta stadium you've heard of Talanta Stadium yes it's a 60,000 seater just right along Gong road right over there we are trying so hard to put a Kenyan sport on the map how do you see Kenya now that you have the United States experience. >> I mean, I think Kenya is on the right track, but I feel like we can develop a lot more. >> We have a we have the chance to be one of like the best African countries in terms of sports, but I feel like until we >> like we have a little a few major issues that if we fix, we can be able to like really put ourselves on the map >> and be known as one of the powerhouses of Africa in terms of sports. >> Yes. >> Yeah. >> Are you going to be the first I I think there's there's a Kenyan somebody by nameu. I've forgotten his first name. I recently followed him on Instagram. I don't know if he was drafted by any of the cuz there's leakers too as well. Yeah. >> Yeah. >> I don't know if it's the NBA. Yeah. So maybe do you see yourself uh getting there too? >> I don't know. I've been I've been thinking about it. >> You should. >> I I really I really want to play high level basketball. Yes. I I do see myself playing there. >> Right. >> Yeah. >> Maybe how many years would you give yourself? For me, I said by the time you're 21, 22, they should be peeping at you. >> I I would say I still want to finish college and get a degree before I >> Oh, you want to finish your education first? >> Yeah. Just cuz in case something happens, you never know if maybe I get an injury and then my contract goes away. So, >> I feel like it's important to first finish my education and then >> start pursuing professional basketball, >> right? >> What career profile or profession would you venture into if you finish? >> I've been thinking about engineering or business, >> right? >> Yeah. Why engineering or business? Business like entrepreneurship, ownership, etc. Okay. Why you love the two? >> Uh I've always Okay, for engineering it's more of I've always been a guy who loves science and physics and I I love how learning how things work and understanding how like I love cars. I love planes. So I love just being able to understand how this works and maybe even building something of my own that could change the world. >> Yes. And then for business, I also want it's more of building something, but in terms of making money, >> cuz my ultimate goal is being able to help my family back home financially >> and any other need they may have. So >> those two options, including basketball, are the reasons why I would choose. >> Yeah. >> Yes. I can only imagine the day you'll be drafted and it's international news. Yeah. Benner Yogi gets drafted, the NBA. Yeah. That will shock and break news headlines. But also maybe cuz most success stories are actually usually just polished and packaged well. Are there any mistakes baby you made or lessons that you learned the hard way when you stepped into the United States? Cuz actually a lot of people just see the glory, you know, they see when it's all rosy. They see you on TV, but they they don't know some of the things that you've had to invest in behind the scenes for you to be here and for you to have risen to this level and even for you even to have gotten that opportunity. Maybe what are some of the mistakes to as well? I'm talking about the hits and the misses that happen behind the scenes, but when you come here, you're all polished and you look good, but there's a lot that went into becoming Bau Yugi. >> Yeah, I think a few mistakes is like not taking other things like lifting seriously. I didn't >> like going to the gym, working out. >> I didn't take it seriously until around last year. I used to just like go do like three squats and then go and start playing basketball >> and on top of that not taking stretching and recovery seriously >> cuz it reaches a point where your knees get so bad that you can't really play that well >> because you don't really focus on taking care of your body. >> So those two things I feel like if I lifted more earlier I could have been at a at a much higher place than I am now. >> Yes. >> And if I took care of my body I could have been playing I I would have been jumping like Jamarant. >> Yes. If I was taking care of my body. >> Yes. >> Yeah. >> Right. Would you say maybe if as well if it was in terms of talents counting if Kenyan if Kenyan young basketballers or young people who are talented like you if they had more of such scholarship opportunities it will continue to put uh the Kenyan basketball space on the map and shout out to NCT Nairobi city thunder. You've said you've heard about it here. Would you say that will give us more visibility in terms of us because I understand NBA has footing even in South Africa. They even have footing here too right here in Kenya. Would you say such opportunities >> boost our visibility? >> Yeah. I feel like if more Kenyans had the chance to go and represent Kenya in the high school level, AU level, I feel like we'd really start being pushed on the map >> cuz everyone would start knowing that well Kenyans, Kenyans are good at basketball, Kenyans can do this or that. So in order for that to happen, we need more Kenyans to have this opportunity that I got >> in order to go play >> and I feel like that is like visas. I know a lot of people who struggle getting visas or have the opportunity but they can't get a visa >> right >> here. >> Yes. And understand right now Donald Trump and IC they are doing the most. They're doing the most even as you're here you should always protect your reputation cuz just a little something some uh crazy goes down. But let me ask you in terms of we can move away from basketball because if there's anything please be rest assured to mention it. >> Uh what what what's life away from basketball? Uh what do you do when you're not in basketball uh mode? Uh you're not dribbling, you're not shooting, you're not doing anything. Uh what do you do with your life? >> Um I usually I used to be a big book guy. I used to read books. I actually like I told you I was really interested in engineering. So I used to um there was this big book I got for my birthday. It was just all about aerospace engineering. So I used to read that so I can learn more about I like learning a lot. >> So I wanted to learn more about how planes work, how vehicles work. Yeah. Automobiles. Other than that, I also like just hanging out with friends. I feel like especially in the US, someone has a car, you guys just go out, have fun, you go bowling. >> Oh my god. >> You go. It's really fun. >> Sounds good. >> Sounds fun. Yeah. >> Yeah. Or sometimes our friends drive us to the beach. So cuz the beach is just there in New Jersey. >> Yeah. Oh, you said you live in New Jersey. Yeah. How's the climate there by the way? >> It's really humid. It's like Mombasa. >> Wa. >> Yeah, it's humid. >> So you're always in >> Yeah. in your outfits. >> No, in winter it's really cold though. We get >> So it gets extremely colder and then extremely humid. Yeah. Right. >> Mhm. >> Right. So you say you enjoy to go to the beach as part of your leisure activities? >> Yeah. Beach, bowling. Uh we do this laser tag in the US. Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Then when I'm back home, I just I usually just go stay at I I like staying at home and I'm back home cuz you don't really get to stay there much. >> Yes. >> Yeah. So I just hang out with my cousins at home, my friends. >> Yeah. >> But you came back when you landed cuz you landed just two weeks ago. What is the first thing you did? >> Chapu. >> Chapati. So mom was on standby. Hopefully it was Chapo Cuckoo. >> What was it? It was Chapo Dango, I think. >> Oh, that's the best too as well. Yeah. Yes. Interesting. And also, let me ask you, what is the feedback that people give you all the time? Maybe from the reviews of uh also on social media. Uh you you told me you're trying to build some sort of like social media presence to as well. Please, you should invest in that too cuz it's so big for your art. What is what are the kind of comments, sentiments, stories that people tell you, especially those that admire you that you say, you know what, people are telling me some good things? I feel like especially the Kenyans who like view my stuff, I feel like they're really supportive. They're always just like, "Yeah, go banan big ban." Yeah. I feel like they always find a way to support you no matter what like you're going through. They're always there supporting you in your comments or in your stories. >> So yeah, that's the biggest thing. >> Yes. I think there's a question about your aerospace part. Uh let me see if I got it. Yes, let me see if I get it. I think it has kept somewhere. But there's a bunch of questions. Please stop calling. Anyways, yeah. Uh when when you're when you're 18 years old, you're trying to jet set yourself to become this wild mega star in basketball. Maybe what would you say for a young person who's watching right now? Maybe they're in the village. Yes. >> And they want to take on this path that you are on. What are the early things that they should start practicing? Cuz in your story, you mentioned at some point you're very passionate about swimming. But again, your dad encouraged you and told you, you know what, it's not too late. But I was like, you're only still underage, so you still have bigger life ahead of you. Yeah. What would you tell them that they should focus on so that they practice the art to a level that you are? >> Um, I feel like once people start playing the sport, they all want to do the flashy things. They want to be able to shoot step back threes or go dunk. But I feel like you should really focus on the basics and be able to do the little things as good as possible cuz you it's really rare to find someone who's great at doing the basics, which is so I feel like anyone who really wants to start playing basketball, no matter where you're from, >> just make sure you're starting like with the little things that everyone ignores. >> Yeah. >> Mhm. >> I'm trying to find that question. Oh, somebody, how has it being an international student athlete changed the way you see Kenya? I think you've already answered that. I was looking for that question about your aeros. Yes. Is aerospace engineering not the usual athlete major? Why the field specifically? I think you at some point you even tried to respond to it. How does the discipline of basketball feed your mindset and need for engineering? >> Engineering is not a regular basketball major cuz basketball especially at the highest level takes up a lot of time >> and being able to balance engineering as well as that is really difficult. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. But it's hard cuz you have two passions. I don't really know if I'll be able to choose one. >> I I would probably choose basketball cuz I like basketball more. But still, I wouldn't want to just drop aerospace out. >> But yeah, um >> you can do it part time. >> Mhm. >> Like becoming a part-time aviator. Oh, you you want the engineering part mainly? >> Yeah, like building or fixing or >> engine etc. Yeah. Right. So not an aviator like uh pilot and or cabin. >> I don't think I can fit in the cabin. >> Yes. you are super tall and by the time I'm sure you'll be 25 you'll be like seven but that's interesting because somebody will be like you know basketball and you know aerospace engineering two different worlds and it's interesting you're saying because of the complexity um maybe what else you entertainment as a young person cuz you're 18 it's all about bowling but you're a very serious person you got a career ahead of you what shocks you in the world of entertainment at large >> what do you mean by shocks stunts you or gets your attention. I understand the United States uh I think we were even trying to borrow when Ash speed was here the culture of streaming. We're seeing a lot of content creators etc. are coming up and trying to even copy. And it's interesting somebody was even saying in Kenya we copy the American way of doing things especially when it comes to content even TV. Somebody said if you listen to a Kenyan radio station and listen to like a station in Kali in California or in New Jersey where you stay uh difference maybe storylines the news updates but in terms of the way they're broadcasting it goes headtohead. Yeah. So maybe what you etc. Yeah. What stands you especially when you're in the United States? Not here. I'm sure here I'm going touch and grow. >> There is Tik Tok. Everything is on Tik Tok. You just >> Oh, you're active on Tik Tok. >> I want to start being active on Tik Tok. >> Yeah. Please do. Yeah. >> Yeah. So it's just Tik Tok. You everyone who you like know who plays basketball is always on Tik Tok. >> Always on Tik Tok. Yeah. that may be posting dances or they're just posting about their life. >> People do the day in the life of a >> of a basketballer. Yeah. >> So, yeah. >> Yes. I'm seeing this trend. What is it called? The spend the boosting I think it's a very viral soundtrack and and just people get down. Yeah. Nice. Interesting. Anything creative that you do that you'd say a skill that you are so good at away from basketball? Uh are you good at cooking? >> Have you cooked for mom and dad? anything. >> Um I don't I've not cooked when I've b I mean I only there's this one recipe I usually make for burgers but that's it. >> Uhhuh. >> I just Yeah, I don't cook that much anymore. No, >> even in states >> the states unfortunately our dorms don't have access to a kitchen so we don't get to cook >> to go to the cafeteria. >> Yeah. >> Right. Interesting. Interesting. Interesting. Now, um, as you move back to the United States, maybe what's what's the next remaining chunk of your story or of your part as you continue? >> So, now this is senior year. This is going to be a big year for me. So, um, cuz now I'm a senior, I'll have a bigger role on the team. >> So, when I go back, it's just making sure I live up to what my coach expects me to do. >> Yes. >> So, from now until then, it's just working, making sure I'm as good as possible. >> Yeah. So between now and November, we have preseason. We're just working out and then coaches are coming to watch us play constantly. And then we have the season where we have to obviously we're going to win the championship this year. >> Yes. >> Then now in spring it's just spring is more of a chill time where you just get to recover and relax after the season. >> So after spring now it's up to college. I'm I'll have chosen a college by then. >> Yeah. >> And then from that was end of 2026 or early 2027. That's early 27. Yeah. >> Okay. >> So then after that I'll go into college next year around the same time as now. >> Right. >> Then from there it's just wherever God wants me to go. >> Yes. Amen. On God. On God. On God. And let me ask you maybe what is that one thing that people don't understand about basketball uh in terms of the whole sport thing. And if you are to tell them, by the way, what is it that people don't get? >> How insanely hard it is to get into the NBA, >> right? >> Is is the hardest. I don't It's extremely hard cuz you only have 450 active players in the NBA, >> right? >> And over I would say even 2 million players in high school and college are trying to get into the same 450 sports. >> Yes. So it's insanely hard. You have to stand out. And on top of that, you also have players in Europe who also take fighting for those 450 spots. >> Wow. >> And you also have players in the G- League trying to fight for those 450 spots. So it's really really hard to get into the NBA. And I feel like every time I come to Kenya, people asking me what team I'm playing for in the NBA, >> but they don't really understand. >> Everyone they see on social, they're like, "Are you in any are you drafted?" In fact, they don't even know your age. Yeah. >> Yeah. Exactly. >> This guy plays plays professionally and he's definitely earning. Yeah. >> But you're literally in your formative years, so to say. >> Yeah. >> Right. >> So, yeah, it's insanely hard and I feel like people don't really understand that yet. >> Yeah. >> What is the feedback from some of the matches that you've played, especially with your coaches? Yeah. Do you have just one coach or several for different matches? >> We have I have several in my high school and I also have several for AU as well. >> Right. What was the feedback at first? At first, I feel like my coaches weren't happy with me cuz I feel like I used to give up a lot easily. Like I would like miss a shot, then I'll just like put my head down, feel discouraged. Feel discouraged. Yeah. So they used to it used to be on my case like Ben, go play, keep playing, play hard. >> So yeah, it was mostly about having that motor to keep going no matter what happens. If I miss a shot, I'm running back down the floor to go block someone off the backboard. >> That was the biggest feedback I got last year and this year. Yes. Yes. >> So, I've just been working on developing my motor and just keep going. >> Yes. >> Yeah. >> Your current coach, what does he say? >> My current coach, he really wants me to start like shooting more, >> right? >> Yeah. He wants me to be able to make an open shot or make >> like if everyone else is struggling to make a shot, I need to be the one who's able to make that shot. >> Yeah. Did he travel with you to Kenya? >> No, no, no, no. He's in New Jersey. >> Okay. Interesting. Interesting. because your world and your career profession requires a lot of focus and just a lot of intensity and training. Um, as we finish up this conversation, maybe if if you are to meet um, let me call him an official from the Ministry of Sports cuz I understand we have Talanta Stadium. We're looking forward to host AFCON and its convergence of Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda. I believe we are trying. We are trying in as much as in as much as there's all these loopholes that need to be sealed. >> Honestly, we are trying. If we hosted the other match, uh was it last year or last year? But one, I believe we can do better. But if you had a chance to have a chat with the minister of sports, uh what would you propose to him in terms of the experience and the exposure that you've learned in the United States if you try to pitch it to him? I feel like we focus a lot on football more than every other sport. Yeah. >> Right. Why though? >> I I guess I mean football is >> because it's easier. >> I don't know. I think it's more accessible also cuz you just need a ball. >> Accessibility. Yes. >> Right. >> Basketball you need shoe. You need basketball shoes. I struggled a lot trying to find basketball shoes by size. Need basketball shoes. You need a a whole course. You need a ball. Ball is also expensive. Yes. >> I feel like we should work on making other sports, even not just basketball, more accessible >> cuz it's really difficult even playing most sports aren't up to standard. >> Shoes, you barely find shoes, especially bigger shoes. >> They all have gear, kit, etc. >> Basketballs are expensive in like these stores in Kenya. So, >> I feel like we should be able to make gear and all this other stuff accessible, >> right? >> Yeah. Would you encourage an African parent, a Kenyan parent to invest in a child who had a who has a dream of being a basketballer? >> 100%. >> Why? >> You never know where you're going to end up. >> Uhhuh. >> You never know. You your child might end up playing on a scholarship in the US. Then he might end up making hundreds of thousands in Europe playing professional, making it to the NBA, right? >> And you'll be the one who supported him doing that >> and he'll be forever grateful. He'll always cherish that moment. >> Yeah, absolutely. This is my second last question before you tell people uh how they can plug in with you and support you on socials. When you look at people like Masai Ujiri, you've heard of Masaijiri? >> Yes. I think he's doing something with NBA Africa and what they're doing. I think they're preaching even uh basketball from different African countries to international level. In terms of investors and investing in young talents, uh do you think maybe in Kenya we receive less from your understanding and for a lucky person like you who got a chance to have this uh you said it's a scholarship or a sponsorship? >> Scholarship. >> Scholarship. Yeah. Do you maybe feel like the there's less there's less convergence here and it's more mainly diverted to like I believe Rwanda has a very good basketball you know uh infrastructure and South Africa. Do you believe maybe investors should come here more and just try to observe on ground? I believe we have so much potential. >> We have a lot of >> shout out to Masai. Yeah, you said you know him. >> Yeah, >> I feel like we have a lot of talent in Kenya. It's not really getting noticed cuz >> there's not really people who come and watch Kenyan basketball and give people opportunities that much. >> Like mine was surprisingly rare like how I got there. Yeah, it was really rare. >> There's a golden opportunity. >> Exactly. Yeah, that was God. Um, but yeah, I feel like you should really we should invest more in basketball and I feel like we should have people cuz like Nigerian countries always have people trying to get Nigerians into the states >> or abroad trying to play basketball. But in Kenya, you barely see people going abroad cuz you don't have that many people looking for Kenyans. >> Yeah. >> In your teams, are there any Kenyans? >> I've not East African at all? >> No, it's Africans. Yeah. >> All West Africans. So from Ghana or Nigeria? Like when I play against people, it's always Nigerians, Ghanaian or Seneagalles. >> Or Ghanaians, Nigerian, Seneagalles. >> I've only met >> You're the only East African. >> Yeah. >> Or >> I've only met one East African in my time at the US who plays basketball, >> right? Interesting. Wow. An interesting conversation you've had. So tell them how can they get to plug in with you on social media? >> Uh my Instagram is ben.ugi and my Twitter is ben_yugi4954. >> Yes. your Tik Tok. You've not said it. >> I can't remember my Tik Tok right now. >> Oh my gosh. >> If they if they follow my Instagram, they'll see all my Yeah. They definitely get Yeah. Anything that I've forgotten to ask? >> Uh, no. Thank you, bro. Yeah, it's going to be >> Maybe what people don't understand about you or what they should know, they'll find it on social media, right? At Ben >> Ben. Instagram. >> Right. Please ensure that you rush there and follow Ben right now. Thank you so much for being here. Incredible conversation. You are really a me. Next time we'll be talking to you. Definitely you'll be drafted. I'm sure. I'm sure. On God. Fingers crossed. Cinder. >> Right. So, so thank you to you as as well for watching us from 7 to 10:00 a.m. If you missed anything, even this conversation, it will be available on YouTube at Y24 channel at Brans 101 at James. The hashtag is in the morning. Thank you for watching. See you tomorrow bright and early right here. Heat. Heat.