Masai Ujiri And Giants Of Africa Announce 54th Court Opening In Jimara, The Gambia

The Dallas Mavericks team president and UN Sustainable Development Goals advocate, Masai Ujiri, has announced the completion of Giants of Africa's 54th community basketball court in Jimara, The Gambia. This milestone was reached through a partnership with Jaha Dukureh, a UN Member, Goodwill Ambassador for Africa, and founder of Jaapo Capital Company Ltd. The court's opening ceremony, held on November 7, 2021, was attended by local officials and community leaders.

The new court in Jimara, located in The Gambia's Upper River Region, is more than just a basketball arena; it is envisioned as a hub for women and a gathering space that fosters connection, mentorship, and opportunity alongside sport. The design of the court draws inspiration from the baobab tree, a symbol of strength, wisdom, and unity in The Gambia.

The construction of the FIBA-standard court was carried out by local hands, with young people from the district being trained and employed during the process. The court will host coaching, clinics, and youth programming, and it belongs to the communities it serves. Jaha Dukureh expressed her gratitude for the collaboration, stating that the court represents hope, opportunity, and the beginning of a larger vision to establish an educational and training hub for young people.

Masai Ujiri emphasized the importance of the initiative, noting that it brings joy, unites the community, and opens doors for young people, especially girls and women, in The Gambia. Giants of Africa launched its Built Within initiative in September 2021, aiming to uplift communities, unite youth, and create opportunity through basketball courts developed in partnership with unique communities across Africa.