Tributes Paid After Juma Ngqobongwana Passes Away
The UK basketball community has been left shocked and saddened by the loss of Juma Ngqobongwana, who died in his sleep at the age of 30, on Friday.
The local league player was well-known and respected in the British basketball community with a deep passion for the game, and had been preparing to play for the Moss Side Tropics in the annual Bradford Tournament.
As well as playing, Juma was also involved in writing game reports for Manchester Giants as well as Manchester Magic.
The BBL side issued the following statement: “Everyone at Manchester Giants is really saddened to hear this terrible news. Everyone in Manchester basketball knew Juma as a knowledgeable, friendly, popular individual. Our condolences go to his family.”
Juma’s mother Evelyn, from Whalley Range, told the Manchester Evening News her son was always doing something for others and would often try to raise money for good causes.
“My baby was a good boy. He was quiet, and different,” she said.
“My baby was Christian and he was cheerful. My baby always put everyone else first.”
Meanwhile, peoples tributes have flooded in on social media, both on Facebook and Twitter:
This guy @Ngqobongwana is the top 5 best people I know… always cheerful and always happy to see me! The good 1s go too soon #RIPJuma
— Orlan J (@N4OrlanJ) May 2, 2015
In total shock at the sad news that Juma has died, the world has lost one of the nice guys. RIP @Ngqobongwana
— Matt Roberts (@StattRoberts) May 2, 2015
Truly shocked and saddened to hear the news about Juma Ngqobongwana – such a huge loss. Thoughts with all of his friends and family. RIP
— Neal_RAY_RAY (@NealHopkins11) May 2, 2015
Cant believe it! Rip juma you will forever be missed 😩😭👼🏾❤️👊🏾🏀
— Andre Gayle (@Dre_Ski9) May 2, 2015
Juma @Ngqobongwana – loved his family & friends, loved life, and loved ball. The world has lost a gem. pic.twitter.com/9s6DUFJYzN
— Air Adam (@airadam13) May 3, 2015
On today of all days, I'd like to recognise the life of a true basketball lover, my countryman Juma Ngqobongwana. Wish his family the best.
— Mbongeni Greg Mpofu (@coachMGM) May 2, 2015
Hoopsfix wants to offer our sincerest condolences to all of Juma’s friends and family.
Image Credit: Twitter
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