Tina soars to All-BRAC 1st-Team Honors

Recently honored as First Team All Conference, Tinaishe Chikwata ‘26 never expected basketball to take her across the world, but now, as an international student from Zimbabwe, she is making a name for herself on the court.

Growing up in Zimbabwe, when Chikwata first picked up a basketball, she quickly fell in love with the sport. Her natural talent and work ethic got her to compete at a high level, catching the attention of coaches across the world.

Moving wasn’t easy. Adjusting to a new culture,
balancing sports with academics, and competing at a high level came with challenges. “The journey was hard,” she said. “Back home, basketball wasn't as competitive as here. It was easier. And I feel like, because it was home, it was more familiar.” But that didn’t stop her. “I came like something new, which was good, but it was also a bit demoralizing, because I didn't know what I was supposed to be training for, what to get ready for. But yeah, my coaches and my teammates helped me get to that stage.”

Not long after arriving, she was already known for her skills. “She cheers a lot for our team,” Mercedes Herrera ‘27 said. “And knows how to shoot really well.”

With all the hard work she put in during the basketball season, she won first team all conference. “I feel good about it. I'm very grateful and very thankful to all my teammates and my coaches, but I feel good.”

After having the very successful basketball season she now has other goals in mind. “I'm gonna be playing soccer and hopefully some travel basketball”

Outside of sports, Chikwata has a clear goal. “I always wanted to be a doctor,” she said. “And I'm trying to work towards that.”

---