NBA Opens New Office in Nairobi
The NBA officially opened its first office in Nairobi on Wednesday, November 29th.
This move is part of the NBA's ongoing efforts to enhance the development of basketball in the country. In September, Kenya and the NBA signed an agreement to endorse the advancement of basketball skills in schools and local associations via the Talanta Hela Initiative. One of the aims of this collaboration is to train teachers to become certified coaches and scouts in communities. Also, the agreement aims to construct quality basketball courts in schools for competitive matches.
The efforts made in this partnership consolidate the NBA's commitment under an earlier MoU signed with Kenya. This collaboration enhances Kenya's commitment to growing and nurturing basketball talent among its citizens. The effects of this endeavour extend beyond Kenya as it strives to foster the progress of basketball throughout Africa. Through the establishment of a branch in Nairobi, the NBA showcases its commitment to allocating both resources and knowledge to propel the sport's growth in Africa.
Alongside this noteworthy achievement, President William Ruto praised the NBA during the meeting that featured esteemed officials such as NBA Africa CEO Victor Williams, five-time NBA champion Ron Harper, and former NBA player Micheal Finley. Representatives from the United States also graced the occasion. Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba underscored the constructive influence professional sports can have on the youth. He pointed out that the United States basketball league, the NBA, plans to implement grassroots programs in Kenya.
The emphasis will be on fostering skills and furthering basketball advancement. The launch of the fifth NBA office in Africa calls for the establishment of a Junior NBA clinic to commemorate the occasion. This will target 70 boys and girls. President William Ruto showcased his basketball skills during the special event. Engaging in a friendly 'match' against Ron Harper, the President demonstrated his exceptional dribbling skills. President Ruto reaffirmed his belief in the power of professional sports to positively impact the lives of young people. He also lauded the NBA's commitment to nurturing talent and promoting the sport in Kenya through grassroots initiatives.
Comments (8)
NASCAR now needs to follow suit. They will undoubtedly have an already trained pool of drivers in the same league as Mario Andretti in our matatu drivers; especially the Githurai 44 and Ngong Road routes.
I have watched Kenya's National Basket Ball team play,and to my summation and despair,they do not inspire confidence...Any top ten high school team in USA would beat them,That's how low,I think they are with their skill sets.Not to mention their physical disadvantages;On average team Kenya is pretty undersized in all positions.
Sure if we have talent somewhere hidden in crevices,nooks and crannies of our villages,let's lure them out,and make them NBA players with million dollar contract.Not that should motivate any kid with a modicum of talent.Probably that's what the NBA office has come to do.I hope they have some success. Sending one play to NBA ,and 4 to collegiate division,in the next 5 years ,would be a major success.My two cents.
Anyone remember Alex Aluga who played for post Bank and national team? He got to USA to try it but ended up playing basketball. I believe in development from kiddy level. Another guy tried NCAAF and he was hit and ball, helmet and shoes flew away from him. Anyway there's hope at skill level, it's not all size. A 5'5 blocked Yao Ming sometimes back. Impossible is nothing
I meant volleyball is what Alex was downgraded to
Great development. Though NBA draft and MVP is favouring Euro lately, it's good to see USA spreading opportunities to new places. Euro model of coaching children is best though. South Sudan soon.
This will build more Ja Morant's in the Kenyan community.
Gimmicks at their best.
NBA IS AN AMERICAN SPORT. walk around any hood and kids are practicing, while in kenya kids are doing homework.
This is just an expansion for retired NBA players to have something positive to do.Keep them busy,and relevant to an organization that was good to them $$$$ wise.