Wildcats Multicultural Stories: Noa Kouakou-Heugue

Perth Wildcats NBL Next Star Noa Kouakou-Heugue grew up in France and was born in Lille in the north of the country, where family has always been central to who he is, no matter how far basketball takes him around the globe.

“They’re the people I can call every day, whether I feel good or bad,” he says. “They’re always there for me, supporting me and pushing me to be the best I can be.”

That support has been especially important as Kouakou-Heugue navigates life overseas for the first time, having recently moved from France to Australia.

“It feels good to discover a lot of new things, the way people live here. It’s pretty different, even the weather. It’s hot here.”

Since arriving in Perth, he has embraced the change, settling into his new environment and building connections with his teammates.

“I’m enjoying the beach and my new teammates,” he says. “So it’s been good.”

Kouakou-Heugue's basketball journey began when he was 11 years old at a small club in the south of France.

“I started playing basketball because my friends told me I was pretty tall for my age,” he says. “I just kept playing with them and year by year, step by step, I kept grinding and getting better.”

That steady progression led to the opportunity to represent his country, an experience that remains one of the proudest moments of his career.

“Representing France means a lot,” he says. “I've had the chance to do it three times. It's special knowing your family is supporting you and your country. You’re also playing with really good players, so you can learn from everybody.”

While basketball has opened doors internationally, Kouakou-Heugue admits there are parts of home he misses, particularly when it comes to food.

“There’s a big difference between food in France and Australia,” he says. “I really miss French food.”

One dish in particular holds special meaning.

“Boeuf bourguignon is my favourite,” he says. “My grandma used to cook it for special days. It’s beef with a wine sauce and French fries. Shout out to my grandma.”

Recreating it is something that's still a work in progress.

“I don’t know how to make it,” he laughs. “I need my grandma for that.”

Family values continue to guide Kouakou-Heugue as he adjusts to life in a new country, advice passed down from his mother staying with him every day.

“My mum always told me to always be myself, have fun with everything I do in my life, and never change,” he says.

As the Perth Wildcats celebrate the club's first Multicultural Game, Noa Kouakou-Heugue’s story reflects the importance of family values and staying connected to home. 

The Perth Wildcats take on Melbourne United on Sunday, 25 January, for the Multicultural Game.

Limited tickets remaining