Nate Ament Honors Rwandan Heritage as College Decision Approaches

PORTLAND, Oregon — Nate Ament, a standout basketball prospect from Colgan High School in Virginia, is making headlines at the 2025 Hoop Summit while honoring his Rwandan heritage. The 6-foot-9 wing is set to represent Team USA in a prestigious showdown against an international squad this Saturday night, showcasing not only his talent but also the colors of the Rwandan flag through his custom sneakers.

“It’s really special for me to be able to do that,” Ament said. “And it’s a huge tribute to my mom… I’m trying to pay back to the country what it’s given to me, the perspective of love that I’ve felt from the country and all the support I’m receiving from them.”

Ament’s journey in basketball has positioned him as one of the top uncommitted players in his class. His impressive high school performance, including significant gameplay that boosted his rank to No. 4 nationally, has drawn attention from elite college programs like Duke, Kentucky, and Tennessee.

Currently undecided on his college destination, Ament acknowledges the gravity of his decision. “I’m trying to take time not to rush a decision… making sure that whatever choice I pick, I have no doubts or second thoughts,” he stated.

Fans in the stands will include Ament’s parents, Albert Ament and Godlieve Mukankuranga, whose remarkable story reflects resilience in the face of adversity. Mukankuranga was born Tutsi in Rwanda during a period marred by ethnic violence. She left for Italy before the Rwandan genocide erupted in 1994, which claimed the lives of many family members.

“My mother, my brother, my two sisters… everybody got killed,” Mukankuranga recounted. “I was there [in Italy] by then. I consider myself lucky because I have my adoptive parents, I have friends in Italy. I have everything I need.”

Mukankuranga’s journey influenced Ament greatly, shaping his values and work ethic. Her experiences instilled in him a determination to succeed through hard work and education. “She’s obviously overcome all that happened in Rwanda… seeing my mom’s dedication and perseverance helped me appreciate all that she did for me,” he said.

In addition to his basketball aspirations, Ament has expressed a desire to understand and connect deeper with his Rwandan roots. He holds both American and Italian citizenship, and hopes to obtain Rwandan citizenship in the future. “From my visits, I just could remember myself crying my eyes out when I left because I was sad to leave my family. But first impressions [of Rwanda], it was really beautiful,” he reflected.

As Ament navigates this pivotal moment in his athletic career, he remains grounded by familial support. “Nate is a very good kid,” Mukankuranga said. “He’s handling everything very well.”

With the basketball community keenly awaiting his college decision, Ament plans to announce his choice soon. Whichever program secures him will benefit from not only his impressive skill but also his strong character shaped by his unique heritage.