The court was set, the energy was exciting, and a milestone 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 court in Dubai this November.
In the final event, the men’s national title went to the MBB Blue Soldiers (Nino Dim, Lebesa Selepe, Neo Mothiba, and Rabbi Belolo-Lou), while the women’s championship was claimed by the Hoop Hustlers (Lauren Fredericks, Monicah Tlou, Khanyi Maphisa, and Liyabona Sahnnon Nondala). Both teams will now represent South Africa at the Red Bull Half Court World Final in Dubai, where they’ll test their skills against some of the world’s toughest and most creative streetball squads.
The tournament brought streetball to life in true Red Bull style; fast, fierce, and unapologetically bold. Teams showcased not only skill and determination but also the creativity and flair that define the game. True to the competition’s unique “Own the Court” rule, it wasn’t just about the number of wins, but also about putting up the highest scores, making every basket count.
Attendees experienced a day featuring basketball activities, music, cultural elements, and community gatherings, highlighting the global participation in streetball.
Speaking after their victory, winning men’s team Captain, Lebesa Selepe said: “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!”
The women’s champions Captain, Lauren Fredericks, added: “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.”
Backed by Fila and Spalding, and amplified locally through official media partner 5fm, the Red Bull Half Court National Finals marked a milestone for South African basketball. With the champions crowned, anticipation now shifts to Dubai, where the winners will carry the nation’s pride onto the global stage.
Visit the Red Bull Half Court site for more details.
