Rubber Man: The unsung hero of Ghanaian basketball

Basketball’s greatness in Ghana is being forged anew through the legacy of an unsung hero.

Emmanuel Quaye, affectionately known as “Rubber Man” is a basketball coach in Tema who continues to inspire the next generation of talent.

With a storied past as a national player with the CERPS team in the 90s, Quaye now channels his passion into shaping the future of basketball players through his role as head coach of the Tema Youth U-15 team.

“It all started for me when I felt and asked myself, where I am what is my impact? Everybody will talk about Rubberman was this, was that but in the end, they will ask you, what did you do?” Quaye said to 3sports.

Saturday mornings, while many are still wrapped in the comfort of their beds, a dedicated group of young athletes train at the community four basketball court under Quaye’s tutelage.

As the head coach of the Tema Youth U-15 team, he has dedicated himself to a cause that transcends the sport: giving back to his community.

“Looking back, I saw that someone gave me the platform, so I should also give somebody that platform as a coach, assist people to play better and when I see them, I am very happy.”

Quaye’s philosophy is simple: basketball can be a powerful tool for personal development.

For the young athletes who gather at the court every Saturday, Quaye’s training sessions are a chance to learn from one of the best. It is a sentiment parents of young athletes share.

His vision for Tema Youth and the broader basketball community remains ambitious. He hopes to see more young players achieve their dreams.

His commitment to nurturing the next generation of athletes stands as a powerful reminder of beauty in sports.