Ghana and former NBA Power Forward Ben Bentil was on hand to kick off proceedings in a friendly football game between his home nation and France.

The 2016 Draftee made the ceremonial kick ahead of the friendly encounter between both nations national women’s team in Reims in Northern France.

Following a brief stint with Dallas Mavericks to become the first Ghana-born player to feature in the NBA, Bentil signed with French Pro A team Champagne Chalons-Reims this offseason.

In his brief time at Reims, Bentil has been largely a hit signing for the side as his play has powered the team to fourth in the standings with four wins in six games.

Prior to his arrival, Reims struggled to compete in France’s top flight basketball division placing 16th in the 18 team division and missing relegation narrowly.

His presence on the team coupled with the addition of Pro B Coach of the Year for 2015-2016 Cedric Heitz has given fans of the French side renewed hop of making the playoffs and qualify to European competitions.

Bentil paced Reims in scoring with 19 points in an 89-79 win over Limoges. Ghana’s National Female Football Team- the Black Queens- was humiliated 0-8 in the friendly.

Was a great honor to do the kickoff at the Ghana vrs France game. Truly appreciate the love. Go Ghana ???????? pic.twitter.com/JWRBCvkojY

— SIR PABLO (@benbentil) October 23, 2017