Morocco's First NBA Basketball School Launches to Empower Young Athletes

Saturday 25 January 2025 - 17:00

By: Dakir Madiha

Morocco's First NBA Basketball School Launches to Empower Young Athletes

NBA Africa and Evosport, a subsidiary of Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P), have inaugurated Morocco's pioneering NBA Basketball School, marking a significant milestone in youth sports development. The initiative aims to nurture basketball talent and provide comprehensive training opportunities for young Moroccans.

The groundbreaking program was formalized through an agreement signed at UM6P France, with key stakeholders including UM6P President Hicham El Habti, NBA Deputy Commissioner Mark Tatum, NBA Africa CEO Clare Akamanzi, and Basketball Africa League President Amadou Gallo Fall in attendance.

This comprehensive basketball development project will impact nearly 2,000 boys and girls under 18 annually across multiple Moroccan regions, including Khouribga, Gantour, Laayoune, and El Jadida. The initiative will not only provide youth with high-quality basketball training but also offer specialized coaching education, with over 200 local coaches set to receive advanced training.

Clare Akamanzi emphasized the program's significance, noting the country's profound basketball enthusiasm. "Partnering with UM6P, especially before the BAL's inaugural games in Morocco this April, allows us to significantly boost basketball development efforts and provide thousands of young Moroccans with opportunities to learn and play," she stated.

UM6P President Hicham El Habti expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, highlighting the university's commitment to youth development through sports. "At UM6P, we believe in the power of sports to inspire and shape young minds," El Habti remarked. "This program aligns perfectly with our mission to foster innovation and contribute to Africa's socio-economic growth."

Building upon previous NBA Africa initiatives in Morocco, which have already engaged over 100,000 young players and coaches, this new basketball school represents a significant investment in the country's sporting infrastructure and youth potential.