Meet Burzis Kanga, the charismatic head tennis coach at the University of New Orleans, whose journey on and off the court has kept us guessing.

While his skill in developing top-notch tennis talent has earned him accolades, it was his former union with the beloved broadcast journalist, Hoda Kotb, that captured the attention of gossip columns.

Join us as we delve into the extraordinary life of this enigmatic coach, unearthing tales of triumph, heartbreak, and the irresistible allure that defines Kanga’s entertaining legacy.

What Nationality Is Burzis Kanga? His Age, Early Life, & Education

In the vibrant city of New Orleans, a tennis coach named Burzis emerged onto the scene, leaving an intriguing trail that intertwines his ancestry and his journey into the coaching realm.

Burzis Kanga is a native of New Orleans, Louisiana.
Burzis Kanga is a native of New Orleans, Louisiana. Source: Pinterest

As the former partner and first husband of NBC Today’s beloved host, Hoda Kotb, Kanga’s life has garnered attention. Born and raised in New Orleans for over four decades, Kanga’s roots trace back to Tanzanian parents, making him a first-generation American of Tanzanian-Egyptian descent.

While his birth date remains shrouded in mystery, one thing is clear: Kanga’s connection to New Orleans runs deep, with ties to Collingswood, Sr High as a former student.

Kanga Married Life With Hoda Kotb

In the realm of unexpected unions, the story of Burzis Kanga and Hoda Kotb stands as a captivating chapter in the annals of love. As the former husband of NBC’s Today spokesperson, Kanga shared a brief but notable marriage with the charismatic broadcaster from 2005 to 2007.

Burzis Kanga and Hoda Kotb were married for two years only.
Burzis Kanga and Hoda Kotb were married for two years only. Source: Pinterest

Their fateful encounter took place at an event for the American Heart Association on Valentine’s Day in their shared hometown of New Orleans. At the time, Kotb, of Egyptian heritage, was carving her path as a news anchor for a local station.

After years of on-and-off dating, Kanga, the strategic tennis tactician, proposed to Kotb in May 2005, leading to a destination wedding in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, that same year.

Unveiling the Reasons Behind Burzis Kanga and Hoda Kotb’s Divorce

Love’s journey can take unexpected turns, and the marriage of Burzis and Hoda was no exception. From their initial meeting at an event for the American Heart Association, their relationship blossomed, culminating in a beautiful wedding.

However, their union faced significant challenges, leading to their eventual divorce. Kotb filed for divorce on February 15, 2007, a decision that left Kanga shocked and bewildered.

In subsequent interviews, Kanga revealed that their separation was prompted by personal reasons. During that time, both Kanga’s father and Kotb faced health issues, which placed additional strain on their marriage.

While Kanga did not disclose the exact nature of Kotb’s illness, it later came to light that she had been diagnosed with breast cancer. Kotb underwent a mastectomy and reconstructive surgery for breast cancer in March 2007.

The emotional toll of Kotb’s diagnosis, coupled with the difficulties of Kanga’s transition from New Orleans to New York City, contributed to the breakdown of their relationship.

Life After Divorce: Is Hoda In A Relationship?

When Burzis Kanga and Hoda Kotb’s marriage came to an end, both individuals embarked on distinct journeys, forging new paths in their lives. Despite the surprise, Kanga felt when Kotb filed for divorce, he maintained a positive perspective on their time together, cherishing the memories and considering her the embodiment of class.

The NBC's Today co-host Hoda Kotb was in a relationship with Joel Schiffman, a New York financier.
The NBC’s Today co-host Hoda Kotb was in a relationship with Joel Schiffman, a New York financier. Source: Pinterest

The couple officially separated on February 6, 2008, and since then, both Kanga and Kotb have pursued their individual lives. Kotb found love again in 2013, entering a relationship with New York financier Joel Schiffman. However, their relationship also concluded in January 2022.

In the meantime, Kotb has embraced the role of a loving mother to two adoptive daughters. On the other hand, information about Kanga’s personal life remains relatively elusive, with a limited presence on social media.

Though a Facebook profile bearing his name indicates a relationship starting in September 2021, Kanga has yet to confirm the details himself.

Net Worth

In the realm of financial fortunes, the net worth of Burzis Kanga, the former husband of Hoda Kotb, remains shrouded in speculation and conjecture. While Hoda Kotb, with her successful career as a broadcast journalist, is known for being one of the highest-paid personalities in the industry, the details of Kanga’s financial standing are subject to imagination and estimation.

Hoda Kotb is an Egyptian-American TV news anchor and host who has a net worth of $30 million. When Hoda replaced Matt Lauer as co-host for Today in 2018, she signed a new contract with a new salary. This salary is said to be between $8 million and $10 million per year.

Nevertheless, considering Kanga’s long-standing career in tennis spanning over four decades, there is still a possibility that he may have accumulated a millionaire status. The Louisiana resident’s dedication to the sport and his ongoing involvement makes it conceivable that he has achieved a notable financial standing.

He Is A Head Coach of the University of New Orleans Tennis Program

Burzis Kanga, the esteemed head coach of the University of New Orleans Privateers tennis program, has cultivated a team known for its exceptional performance both on and off the court. Since joining the program in February 2008, Kanga has made significant contributions, building a reputation for coaching his players to compete at a high level and achieve remarkable academic success.

Burzis Kanga, the esteemed head coach of the University of New Orleans Privateers tennis program.
Burzis Kanga, the esteemed head coach of the University of New Orleans Privateers tennis program. Source: Pinterest

Kanga’s connection with the University of New Orleans traces back to the 1980s when he was a student-athlete, playing for the Privateers from 1980 to 1983 while pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Business, graduating in 1984.

Now, in his fourth year as head coach, Kanga continues to lead the New Orleans Privateers with dedication and passion. Likewise, also read to know about other celebrity ex-husband Bert Girigorie and Justin Cassotta’s professional careers.

Throughout his coaching tenure, Kanga has achieved notable milestones. In his first term as head coach in 2018-19, he guided doubles teams to all-conference selections and led the women’s team to multiple student-athletes surpassing the 50-win mark for their careers. Under his tutelage, the Privateers’ teams have garnered individual accolades and secured conference championships.

His Other Achievements

Kanga’s recent accomplishments include winning the Southland and LSWA Coach of the Year in the 2020-21 season. His leadership led the women’s tennis team to an impressive 12-3 record and their first-ever Southland regular-season championship, while also earning Newcomers of the Year honors for both the men’s and women’s teams.

Prior to his current role, Kanga previously coached at the University of New Orleans from 1986-89 and again from 2003-06, demonstrating his enduring dedication to the program. During his time as a player, Kanga achieved an outstanding 81-9 record, becoming the sole member of either UNO tennis team to earn All-American honors.

Kanga’s achievements extend beyond the collegiate realm, as he excelled as a top player in Louisiana’s under-21 age group and competed professionally on the satellite tennis circuits in the USA, Europe, and Mexico.

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