RIYADH, October 7, 2024 – One thing is to hear about the important cultural changes happening in Saudi Arabia from a local athlete at these Saudi Games. Another thing is when the evidence of this historical shift is conveyed by foreigners who decided Saudi Arabia was the perfect place for them.

This is the case of Alexandra Tchangoue and Keilanei Cooper. They won the bronze medal in the women's basketball tournament for Jeddah United Team. Both of them came to the country very recently, but the time spent here was enough to realise that a revolution has just started.
 

OPPORTUNITY Tchaoungue, the team's head coach, comes from France. She has lived and played all over the world as player: “I chose this club first of all because I think it’s the opportunity of a lifetime. Going to a new country and getting to know its culture, as well as obviously the Saudi basketball movement is a challenge that makes me happy,” she explains. 

“I am happy also to be part of what is in all respects a revolution for these women. At least, the beginning of it. The Saudi Federation is very determined in to invest in the female sector, especially in individual talent.” 

TEAM CHEMISTRY Speaking about the chemistry of her team, coach Tchangoue is very clear. “Keilanei Cooper is our best player, she is American and everybody knows what that means in basketball. She is already well integrated into the roster and everyone is very motivated also because of her.”

Keilanei, who scored a double-double in the bronze final against Al Salam (26 points and 10 rebs) can confirm what her coach said. “I have been here only for a week but they already treat me really well,” says the 1.75m Californian combo guard. “Now I stay in a 4 star hotel as I came just for the Games. I will never be grateful enough for the care that this society has towards me.”
 

PROGRESS Despite the very short period she’s been here, she is already amazed by the progress women have made in the country. “Until a few years ago these girls couldn’t even drive. Now even the boys come to watch them play. This is all amazing. Basketball here is literally exploding and more and more foreign players are coming here.”

She will continue her experience here. “I wish to come back for the League Season, to bring the Championship to this team. I am confident with other foreign colleagues we can contribute to improve the female basketball in Saudi.”