NBA Africa, in partnership with global nonprofit Opportunity International, has unveiled a brand-new outdoor basketball court at Loiswell Academy in Nairobi. The initiative is part of a broader commitment to empower youth through sports and education across the continent.
This unveiling comes just days after a similar court was launched at Highland School in Nyamata, Rwanda, marking steady progress in NBA Africa’s ambitious goal of constructing 1,000 basketball courts across Africa over the next ten years.
The Nairobi launch was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by key figures, including NBA Kenya Country Operations Lead Michael Finley, Opportunity International Board Member Ken Wathome, Executive Vice President Randy Kurtz, Loiswell Academy Founder Lois Mbugua, and former NBA player Hasheem Thabeet.
Following the ceremony, 100 boys and girls under the age of 16 participated in a Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA clinic held on the new court a vibrant scene underscoring the project’s mission to use basketball as a tool for youth empowerment.
Addressing attendees, Michael Finley reiterated NBA Africa’s vision:
“Last year, alongside government leaders, the NBA made a pledge to build over 1,000 courts across Africa. Our goal is for 100 of those to be right here in Kenya. These courts offer more than just a place to play they provide a safe, inspiring space for young people to grow, to dream, and to discover how far the game can take them.”
He added that NBA Africa will continue working with partners like Opportunity International, the Ministry of Sports, the Ministry of Education, and institutions such as Loiswell Academy to create lasting opportunities for youth across the region.
