Burzis Kanga: From African Tennis Star to UNO Coach and Hoda Kotb’s Ex-Husband

Burzis Kanga is not such a widely recognized name as his ex-wife, Hoda Kotb, perhaps, but among the tennis community—particularly at the University of New Orleans—Kanga is an immensely respected name. A coach, competitor, and mentor, Kanga has played a pivotal role in building college tennis programs and guiding up-and-coming professionals. His name could have come into the headlines because of his celebrity marriage, but his history is much greater than the headlines. With his career fueled by sporting talent and personal dedication, Kanga is a story worth being told.

From childhood days in Tanzania to becoming a star tennis player and eventual head coach in America, Burzis Kanga’s is a story of perseverance and dedication. His capacity to persevere over personal and professional disappointments, such as a highly publicized divorce, attests to his resolve and singular commitment. This article covers Kanga’s life from early childhood through his coaching achievements, personal relationships, and future goals, providing a complete picture of a man committed to sport, education, and integrity.

Quick Bio

Who Is Burzis Kanga?

Burzis Kanga is a world-famous tennis coach and retired professional tennis player most known for his services to the University of New Orleans (UNO) tennis team. Through his roles as head coach of the men’s and women’s tennis teams, he has developed several players into regional and national players. His approach of long-term development, discipline, and teamwork has made him one of Louisiana’s most respected sports personalities in college sports.

While his name is familiar to most due to his brief marriage to Today Show host Hoda Kotb, Kanga has built his reputation through decades of commitment to student and sport development. Not only does he apply technical expertise but also global understanding to the game of tennis, blending his African roots with his American heritage in order to mentor students from all over the globe who hail from diverse cultures.

Early Life

Burzis Kanga grew up in Tanzania, East Africa—a part of the world not well known for tennis. Yet at an early age, he developed a passion for the sport. Growing up, Kanga was interested in racquets and strategy on the court, frequently practicing in suboptimal conditions. This introduction to the sport instilled in him the ability to adapt and think creatively, which he would eventually incorporate into his coaching methods.

Seeking more opportunities, Kanga immigrated to the United States and studied at the University of New Orleans. There, he earned a Business degree in 1984 while also being a top student-athlete. He was a standout player on the tennis team with an 81-9 record in singles and All-American honors. His competitive drive and work ethic created a reputation both on and off the court, which set him up for a coaching career in the long run.

Career Beginnings

Kanga’s professional career was not over once he graduated from college. He toured and played on satellite circuits in Europe, Mexico, and the U.S. These early years of playing gave him firsthand experience with worldwide styles of play, travel demands, and mental endurance necessary to endure. He also established permanent contacts among players in the tennis circuit who would be a valuable resource once he started coaching.

After competing professionally for a few years, he came back to UNO, working in smaller coaching roles at first before becoming the head coach. He rebuilt the program after Hurricane Katrina destroyed the university sports. Not only did he rebuild the teams but took UNO tennis to new levels of competitiveness. Kanga is Southland Conference Coach of the Year multiple times and remains a pillar of UNO’s athletic department.

Who Was Burzis Kanga’s Ex-Wife?

Burzis Kanga married Hoda Kotb in 2005, when Kotb was already a national figure as a television host and reporter. The couple reportedly initially met at a charity gala for the American Heart Association in New Orleans and immediately clicked. Their romance intensified, leading to marriage the same year. Their union did not last beyond 2008, however.

Their separation, although in a great many ways private, was raised publicly by Kotb, who cited personal and health reasons as factors. Kanga too has talked about the emotional toll that the collapse took on both of them. Both have been polite to one another when referring to the other, even following the separation. While their marriage did not last, it is an important part of Kanga’s personal history, especially for journalism buffs who are fans of Kotb.

Burzis Kanga’s Physical Appearance

Burzis Kanga is approximately 5 feet 10 inches tall and has a lean, athletic build with a weight of approximately 130 to 135 pounds. His physical build is that of a lifetime athlete and coach who is constantly on the court. Wearing his sporty casuals most of the time, Kanga has the no-frills, practical appearance of someone more focused on performance than looks.

Though not a celebrity that tends to pose for photos or for magazine covers, his humble demeanor and peaceful confidence are what define his presence. He may not be flashy, but his players and peers consistently describe him as poised, professional, and deeply dedicated. His personality writes itself through the manner in which he coaches—strong but always encouraging.

Net Worth

Burzis Kanga’s worth is pegged at around $1 million. The bulk of that is derived from his career as a college tennis coach, for whom pay can range from $30,000 to $60,000 annually depending on longevity and accomplishment. Kanga’s long tenure at UNO and his prestige both indicate he’s at the higher end of that range.

Although not among the wealthiest in the sports or entertainment industries, his net worth is secure and a reflection of decades of devotion. He has never pursued endorsement or corporate opportunities but has stayed committed to coaching and instructing. His relatively low net worth, by celebrity calculations, is a testament to a life of devotion, not dividend.

Social Media

Burzis Kanga has a low public profile on social media. Unlike his previous wife, who is very active and has millions of followers, Kanga appears to prefer keeping things offline and out of the public eye. There are no verified Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook accounts bearing his name, and he seldom posts personal views or details on the internet.

This absence from social media sits in line with his low-key personality. He has always spoken for himself through his work, whether in terms of tournament victories, player development, or leadership. In an influencer-heavy digital age, Kanga is a reminder that real impact isn’t always needed with a public image.

Future Prospects and Vision

Looking to future plans, Burzis Kanga continues to focus on strengthening more competitive tennis teams at UNO. He has expressed that he would like to recruit more extensively to include more foreign talent and expand athletic facilities. He also hopes to establish youth outreach programs to bring tennis to underprivileged populations in New Orleans, reflecting his commitment to philanthropy through sports.

As a coach who has seen both defeat and victory, Kanga is exactly where he needs to be to mentor the next generation. His future may not involve center stage, but his legacy will be felt for decades to come through the players he shapes and the programs he builds. His legacy is one of determination, mentoring, and never-ending dedication to the game.