EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH MATERO MAGICS CAPTAIN CHONGO CHONA: DOMINANCE AND BAL AMBITIONS Zed Sport sat down with Matero Magics Captain Chongo Chona for an exclusive interview ahead of the Midlands League and the Basketball Africa League (BAL). Chongo shared his thoughts on the team's preparation, dominance, and ambitions for the BAL. When asked about Matero Magics' performance in the Midlands League, Chongo emphasized the need for dominance, stating, "We have to re-establish our dominance! As the team representing the country in the BAL, we have to set the tone from the start of the season." He acknowledged that the competition has become fiercer but expressed confidence in his team's ability to dominate from start to finish. Regarding preparations, Chongo highlighted the team's continuous training, even during the off-season, and the addition of new players to fill specific gaps. He emphasized the importance of the team's core remaining intact, saying, "Our biggest advantage is that our core is still intact... It's the culture. It's being passed from generation to generation." Chongo also spoke about the responsibility of being team captain, saying, "It's a huge responsibility that I always accept and appreciate... I need to ensure that the bridge between the local and international recruits is smooth." He acknowledged the challenge of managing players who don't make the final roster and the importance of leading by example. When asked about separate training for the BAL, Chongo confirmed that the team is having private one-on-one sessions and will eventually intensify their training as resources become available. He welcomed the increased competition in the league, saying, "If every game we play locally challenges us, then it enhances our balance positively." Matero Magics' aim for the BAL is clear: "Put the Zambian flag in the BAL." Chongo emphasized the importance of getting through the second stage, saying, "It's our responsibility, and it's our pride... Either we do it right or don't do it at all." Finally, Chongo urged Zambian basketball fans to support the team, saying, "Be part of us and make yourself available... We need everyone to get on board for this job to begin. It's not always about financial health; it can be coaching tips to improve my game; it could be sharing our posts on social media platforms. This is not for Matero Magic but for Zambian basketball." Follow Zed Sport for all the latest sports news updates.