Pascal Siakam is not just carrying the Indiana Pacers. While the franchise is going through a storm of injuries, including that of its star point guard Tyrese Haliburton, the Douala native has established himself as the true "engine" of the team.

But beyond the All-Star statistics, it was a man deeply attached to his homeland who opened up during this exclusive interview. For Siakam, every basket he scores is a tribute to his Cameroonian roots and a stepping stone for the future of the continent. A message that resonates powerfully from Douala to the shores of Senegal.

For "Spicy P," success in the NBA isn't an end in itself, but a privilege that carries a responsibility. His foundation, PS43, was born from a silent promise made to his father, Tchamo Siakam, for whom education was the foundation of all success. "Knowing where I come from and having this opportunity to be in the NBA, having the means to help others," Pascal explains humbly. "The reason I created my foundation—PS43 Foundation—is to help children with education and technology. It's something I'm privileged to do. And it's also a tribute to my father, for whom it was very important. In short, it's a great passion, and I hope to help many people."

Gazing towards the horizon, Siakam observes with undisguised pride the explosion of talent on the continent. Whether in Cameroon, at an NBA Academy affiliate, or in a BAL tournament, the NBA's influence is growing, and Pascal is one of its proudest ambassadors. "It's gratifying to see that even the NBA has infrastructure and programs to help African youth. For me, it's wonderful to see so many more Africans in the NBA, and we hope it continues this way. It's a source of pride to see how things are progressing."

On the court, the 2025-2026 season is a test of resilience. Despite the fatigue and the packed schedule, the Cameroonian "Indomitable Lion" refuses to give up, remaining true to his self-imposed discipline. "It's been a complicated season for us, a lot of injuries, and we've had to endure a lot. But in the end, for me, all I try to do is be there every day, lead by example, work hard, and give everything I can for the team. Right now it's tough, but we hope we'll keep fighting and have the opportunity to win a few more games."

At 31, in his tenth NBA season, Siakam has realized that talent alone is no longer enough. To stay at the top, he's exploring new avenues, including a rigorous lifestyle and tailored diets. In the locker room after a game, you hear him ask for a gluten-free meal, and people ask him if that's his new secret to being at his best. "I'm trying, I'm trying... with the... I don't want to say age because I don't want to sound like I'm too old," he jokes. "But when you keep going, you're in the NBA, you try to figure out how to improve. Try to find things that can help me perform better. That's the goal."