NBA Africa on Tuesday announced plans to construct 100 outdoor courts across the country.
This ambitious project is part of a larger commitment by NBA Africa to build 1,000 courts throughout Africa over the next ten years.
To achieve this goal, NBA Africa will collaborate with Opportunity International, a renowned global non-profit organization. This partnership will not only focus on court construction but also establish a development program for coaches and teachers in Nairobi and Kigali, Rwanda.
The program will equip coaches and teachers with essential skills and best practices in various aspects of the game, including coaching, refereeing, game operations, event management, program administration, and more.
NBA Deputy Commissioner and Chief Operating Officer Mark Tatum, Opportunity International CEO Atul Tandon, and five-time NBA champion Derek Fisher were all present during the announcement of the plans.
“This collaboration with Opportunity International reflects our unwavering commitment to investing in basketball ecosystems across Africa,” said Tatum. “We aim to provide young people with the resources and opportunities they need to hone their leadership and basketball skills.”
He further emphasized the importance of creating safe spaces for Kenyan youth to play the game and participate in programs that nurture the next generation of coaches and mentors.
Tandon echoed Tatum’s enthusiasm, stating, “We are thrilled to partner with NBA Africa to bring world-class basketball courts and coaches to Africa.”
He recognized the initiative’s alignment with Opportunity International’s longstanding commitment to expanding educational opportunities and empowering African youth.