It all started in the backyard for Ryan Mhlanga and now he is realizing his basketball dream.

The 17-year-old's wish finally came true when he made his debut for the Zimbabwe Under17 basketball team at the Confederation of School Sport Association of Southern Africa (COSSASA) in Botswana in August this year.

Speaking to SportsZone, the point guard was excited after making his first appearance for Zimbabwe.

"Knowing that you're representing your country at this age group is a great feeling. Especially because documents issues got me dropped to the under-16 team last year." 

Although he was demoted to the U16 team, Mhlanga didn't drop his level of skill helping the side clinch the COSSASA basketball event with an average of 20 baskets and 7steals in the competition.

"I upped my game, had an extra workout only to match the requirements of the team.

"I used to do more shooting but now I'm a package of driving play- making and shooting," he said.

The Petra School lower six student also plays for Southern region giants Highlanders, in the top flight league.

He reckons the Bulawayo league experience has made him a better player.

"I started following the professional league basketball as a fan of my brother who is already established. It was always my wish to be one of the valuable player in the local club but through hard work and perseverance I'm part of the best team in Bulawayo," said Mhlanga.

"This has been an opportunity for me to display what I'm made of and after all It has boosted my confidence on the court."

The self-driven school boy is looking ahead to making it into the senior Zimbabwe team and represent the country in international tournaments.      

"My passion for basketball is not going to end in High school but it’s eternal. What I am today marks the beginning of achieving my goal which is being in the first five of the National team."

The Petra high school basketball superstar also plays hockey and is a seasoned swimmer. 

"I love sports and it’s fortunate that I can play most of them. Apart from basketball I do swimming and hockey not forgetting cricket which clashes with my basketball practices.