Chris Matthews, better known as Lethal Shooter, will visit South Africa for the first time to inspire the next generation of basketball talent ahead of the Red Bull Half Court National Final

South Africa’s basketball community is set for a major moment as world-renowned basketball shooting coach and Red Bull athlete Chris Matthews, better known as Lethal Shooter, heads to South Africa for the first time.

The globally acclaimed coach will visit the country ahead of the Red Bull Half Court National Final, taking place on 22 August 2026 at Klipspruit Sports Centre in Soweto.

Known for his innovative shooting techniques and elite coaching methods, Matthews has built an international reputation for working with some of the biggest names in basketball. His first visit to South Africa will give local players and fans the opportunity to experience his expertise and coaching philosophy firsthand.

His appearance forms part of Red Bull Half Court, a fast-growing global 3-on-3 streetball tournament. The South African National Final will see the country’s top men’s and women’s teams compete for the national title and the chance to represent South Africa on the international stage.

Chris Matthews aka Lethal Shooter poses for a portrait in the Well of Death in Mumbai, India on October 08, 2025. // Ishaan Bhataiya / Red Bull Content Pool

Lethal Shooter Masterclass Comes to Wits

Before the National Final, Matthews will host an exclusive Lethal Shooter Masterclass at the University of the Witwatersrand on 21 August.

The session will bring together aspiring basketball players and Red Bull Half Court finalists for an opportunity to develop their shooting skills under the guidance of one of the sport’s most creative and influential coaches.

“I’m excited to experience the energy of basketball in South Africa firsthand. Basketball is a universal language, but every country brings its own culture and style to the game. I’m looking forward to connecting with the players, sharing some knowledge, and learning from the community here too,” says Matthews.

Matthews will then join athletes and fans at the Red Bull Half Court National Final in Soweto on 22 August, bringing his global basketball expertise to one of South Africa’s biggest streetball events.

A Message for the Next Generation

For Matthews, success on the court comes down to consistency, commitment and a willingness to keep learning.

“My message is simple: fall in love with the work. The best players I’ve worked with never stop learning, never stop putting in the reps and always believe in themselves. Stay consistent, embrace the journey, keep shooting and stay locked in.”

Matthews’ first visit to South Africa represents an exciting moment for the local basketball community. Beyond the competition, his presence offers emerging players the chance to learn from an internationally recognised coach while celebrating the rapid growth and influence of basketball and 3-on-3 streetball in the country.

With the Red Bull Half Court National Final bringing South Africa’s best streetball talent together in Soweto, Lethal Shooter’s visit adds an international dimension to an already significant moment for the sport.

For more information, visit Red Bull Half Court.