Personal Statement
I am Chazya Siwale, a 6'4", 180lb Shooting Guard, and I am eager to express my deep passion for the game of basketball and my aspirations to contribute to the success of a collegiate team.
My journey in basketball has been a unique blend of diverse cultural influences, born in the UK to a Nigerian and Zambian heritage, and raised in Johannesburg, South Africa. This cultural mix has not only shaped my identity but also added a distinctive dimension to my approach to the game. My coaches often highlight my intelligence, good judgment, and critical thinking skills as key elements that contribute significantly to my performance on the court.
Having been blessed to attend basketball camps at IMG Academy in Florida twice in August 2022 and April 2023, I gained invaluable experiences that have fueled my desire to play collegiate basketball in the USA. The high-level facilities on and off the court are incomparable to those in South Africa, and the prospect of playing in a similar environment entices me. The first time at IMG provided me with exposure to a higher level of competition and a diverse range of playing styles. It motivated me to elevate my game both mentally and physically. The second stint at IMG further honed my skills, emphasizing the importance of consistency in shooting, ball handling, defensive efforts, and the mental discipline required to succeed at the collegiate level while further honing my skills in a more focused manner due to being in a smaller group.
One of my proudest achievements in South Africa was winning a national tournament in my Grade 11 year, an experience that fueled my ambition to achieve more in university. Starting from the E team in Grade 8 and working my way up to the first team was a challenging yet rewarding journey. Mentally, I focused on developing a resilient mindset, maintaining a positive attitude, and embracing constructive criticism. Physically, I committed to rigorous training regimens and honed my skills in shooting, ball handling, defensive techniques, and overall court awareness.
As an individual, I learned that championships are not just won by talent but by dedication, teamwork, and a relentless work ethic. I developed an understanding that contributing to a winning culture requires more than just individual success; it demands a collective effort where every player supports each other on and off the court.
My dream is to bring my unique blend of skills, cultural diversity, and championship-winning mentality to a collegiate team. I am confident that my commitment to both academic excellence and athletic success aligns with the values of any program that I may find myself in. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to a team that values hard work, unity, and a shared passion for the game. I look forward to working towards achieving new heights in my athletic career.