PANAJI
As the Indian University Basketball Team prepares to take on the world at the FISU World University Games 2025, Goa’s very own Jeshua Antonio Dos Remedios Pinto is set to don the national colours, carrying with him the pride and hopes of an entire state.
The basketball event, scheduled to be held from July 19 in the Rhine-Ruhr Metropolitan Region of Germany, will see Jeshua competing against some of the best student-athletes in the world. With over 10,000 participants from 150+ nations across 18 sports, this edition of the Games is being hailed as one of the largest multi-sport university events ever. India is sending its largest-ever contingent with over 300 athletes, and Jeshua’s inclusion in the men’s basketball team is a proud moment for Goa.
India’s men’s basketball team, led by Krishnapalsinh Gohil of Gujarat and coached by the legendary Ram Kumar (Dhyan Chand Awardee), recently completed a high-intensity national camp at the Starting Five RSC Basketball Academy, Kochi. The squad will face a tough challenge in Group B, up against traditional powerhouses USA, Romania, and Latvia.
Though his selection was announced earlier this year, Jeshua’s journey to Germany is a story still unfolding—and one that continues to inspire. At just 23, the Calangute-based athlete has already built a reputation as Goa’s finest basketball exports. His journey from local tournaments to global recognition has been anything but conventional.
“Jeshua was an all-rounder as a child, dabbling in football and basketball. In fact, he was part of GFA's U14 and U16 leagues but once he got serious about basketball around age 14, his dedication was remarkable,” says his mother and first coach, Helen Pinto. “From training on concrete courts to travelling across states for better opportunities, he has earned every bit of this moment,” she added, talking about his many sacrifices.
“He used to represent a then little-known team from Saligao—Lourdes Basketball Club—who were always the underdogs and yet crowd favourites, often giving top teams like DBO Fatorda, YMCA Knights, and Sonics, having much senior players, a huge scare,” said Sandeep Heble, Vice President of the Goa Basketball Association. “Over time, these youngsters evolved into a cohesive and disciplined unit, training hard together to become Goa’s top team. Under Jeshua’s leadership, they’ve clinched the State Championship title for the past three years. Jeshua himself is a very modest boy—grounded, driven, and incredibly inspiring to those around him. The Goa Basketball Association, as well as the entire Goan basketball fraternity, is extremely delighted with his success. He has done all of us proud.”
Jeshua completed his schooling at Lourdes Convent, Saligao, pursued his Graduation at Loyola College, Chennai, known for its basketball excellence, and is currently doing his Masters at the University of Kota, Rajasthan. He has represented Goa at the Senior Nationals and in recent years added major feathers to his cap: a Gold Medal at the Khelo India University Games 2023, a Silver at the All India University 3x3 Basketball Championship 2024, and selection to the Delhi Dribblers for the inaugural INBL U-25 League 2025.
Jeshua’s inclusion in the Indian squad is not just a personal milestone—it marks a proud moment for Goan basketball. His journey reflects the potential of athletes from small states when given the right opportunities and exposure.
