Ex-American Pro Sees Bright Basketball Future for Ethiopian Youth

Addis Ababa, August 24, 2025 (FMC) — Ethiopia holds vast untapped potential in sports such as basketball but faces persistent challenges in nurturing young talent, according to Carlos Thornton, a former American professional football player and founder of the Tasty Baller Sports Club and Coach Carlos on ProCamp Youth Development Initiative in Ethiopia.

Thornton, who has spent the past two decades training youth in Ethiopia, the United States, and other countries, stressed that Ethiopia has the capacity to develop athletes capable of competing internationally. The U.S.-born athlete—who transitioned from a successful football career in America to professional basketball in Israel—underscored the importance of structured training programs for youth aged 7 to 21.

“We have been committed to developing these students for the past 20 years,” he said, noting that Ethiopian youth have the ability to compete at the highest level when given the right support. Thornton added that many of the young players he coaches are already capable of challenging teams from neighboring countries such as South Sudan, and he envisions Ethiopia assembling a competitive national basketball team in the near future.

“My ultimate goal is to see Ethiopians compete on the world stage, including at the Olympics,” he remarked, as reported by ENA.

For Thornton, sports development is about more than technical skills—it is also about instilling teamwork, leadership, and character, both on and off the court. However, he pointed out that many young Ethiopians lack adequate opportunities, as families often prioritize conventional careers in medicine or engineering over athletics.

“Not every child is destined to be an architect or an engineer. Some are born to be athletes,” he argued, emphasizing that access to sports can ignite children’s hopes and aspirations.

He further stressed the importance of community involvement in supporting youth development, calling on Ethiopians to invest time and resources in helping the next generation of athletes. “Ethiopians are brilliant, smart, and capable,” Thornton said, adding that with greater commitment and collective effort, Ethiopia could cultivate a strong foundation for sports excellence.

Concluding on an optimistic note, Thornton expressed confidence that with increased support and unity, Ethiopia can foster a new generation of world-class athletes, particularly in basketball.