With a full name of Sergeballu LaMu Sayonga Loom Walahas Jonas Hugo Ibaka, this young stud is making a name for himself in the NBA. After most people (me as well) would say Ibaka was 'robbed' of the 2011 Slam Dunk title, I mean come on the guy dunked from behind the free throw line. Ibaka was also a bit disappointed, as he posted on his twitter (@sergeibaka9) Congrats Blake for the win. Personally I'm a little disappointed by my punctuation, but I hope next year the @nba let's me participate again.
So even though Ibaka didn't win the Sprite Slam Dunk, it isn't stopping him playing great basketball for the Thunder. This season Ibaka has been playing hard for OKC, putting up 9.4ppg and 6.9rpg. Not only that, Serge is ranked 6th in the NBA this season for FG% per game (.561), blocks per game (2.1) and blocks this season, with 114. He also in ranked 39th in Efficiency per 48 minutes at 27.28. Some other stats for you are Ibaka had 8 blocks (career high) in a game @Minnesota early this season, his career high for rebounds in a game is a massive 15 vs.New York on the 22nd of January this year and his career high for points in a single match is 22 @Utah, also early this season.
Apart from all the stats, Ibaka is a hard worker for OKC, as he brings energy on both ends of the court every night. Being born in Congo, Serge had a tough transition to the NBA as he didn't speak much English when he got drafted, by the Sonics. Both Ibaka's Mum and Dad played basketball. Ibaka started playing basketball at a young age, as he used basketball as an escape from his Mum's death and from his Dad going to jail. Ibaka who now speaks English also speaks Lingala, French and Spanish.
So when ever you watch Oklahoma City light up the court, watch out for Air Congo, number 9, Serge Ibaka.
