Final go round for improving Ghanaian Big Man

Ivan McDowell, Mid-South/Southeast Editor

Madison Academy Center embarks on fruitful senior campaign

January 8, 2007 - Bawa Muniri has seen his enormous potential start to take shape as he enters his final year at Madison Academy.

The 6-foot-10, 240-pound native of the Ghana has used his summer tours with the Alabama Lasers AAU squad and his winters with his Madison Academy (AL) teammates to stake claim as one of the best big men in the state.

Muniri is mindful of his progression on the basketball court and recognizes how his skill set ascension has taken place.

“Sometimes when I’m on the court I get frustrated and start to think too much instead of letting the game come to me”, said Muniri.

Bawa Muniri in Alabama Laser silks.

Bawa’s performances on the court helped lead Madison Academy to a 33-6 mark last season and consecutive 3A championships. Mostly known for his defense and shot blocking ability, Bawa showed an improved post game and a short jumper out to 10-feet.

During the Nike Peach Jam Invitational the past two summers, Bawa has showen improved post moves and increased fluidity in his offensive game, while performing at his usual high level on the defensive end.

There is no reason to believe that the center’s game has reached its apex however; there is much more work to be done, especially if he wants to continue his rise to an elite prospect in the class of 2008.

“I have gotten better at working on my weaknesses and accentuating the things I do well on the floor. Now, I just go out on the court play basketball. “

During the last two seasons during the Mustangs championship runs, he averaged 16 points and racked up several double-doubles. All of this despite being hampered by a broken foot before the start of last season.

The man-child has worked on catching the ball in the post better and improved his footwork on both offense and defense. In the past, Muniri was being moved out of the lane with regularity. But with increased strength and flexibility that is no longer an issue.

Muniri is a chiseled, 240-pound specimen who has continued to play basketball as much as he can and his effort has certainly paid off.

“Man, I’m still learning, but this is my last year so I’m trying to play big this season,” said Muniri, who has been the focal point of the Mustangs two straight 3A state titles.

Now that his senior season has reached its final semester, Muniri is diligently working to improve his skill set in preparation for college.

“My options are still wide open right now, but Miami, Florida, NC State, Tennessee, Auburn and Alabama are all looking at me strongly,” says Bawa, who currently has no favorite.

“I want to focus on working hard and getting stronger and if I do that then my recruitment will take care of itself.