Giants of Africa opens 50th community basketball court in Lagos

Giants of Africa has achieved a significant milestone by unveiling its 50th community basketball court in Lagos, Nigeria, marking the halfway point of its ambitious 'Built Within' initiative. Founded by Masai Ujiri, the organization is dedicated to constructing 100 basketball courts across the African continent, leveraging sports for youth development and community engagement.

The newly opened court is located at King’s College, Lagos, and was inaugurated on May 25. Ujiri, who is also President and Alternate Governor of the Dallas Mavericks and a UN Sustainable Development Goals Advocate, expressed his gratitude and commitment to the project's future. "Reaching court 50 is a milestone we’ll never forget," he stated. "To be able to have our 50th be in Lagos makes this moment even more special. Nigeria is home and King’s College is an institution I deeply respect."

Launched in September 2021, the 'Built Within' initiative has seen the construction of courts in 16 African countries. Each facility is designed to reflect the unique culture and aspirations of its host community. The Lagos court was made possible through a donation from FORTA Advisors.

The unveiling ceremony featured remarks from King's College Principal Magaji Zachariah Cheye and Dr. A. Val Odife, President of the Kings College Old Boys Association, North America. Nigerian musicians May D and Mayorkun performed, and media personality Ojinika Obiekwe hosted the event.

Following the court's opening, Giants of Africa hosted a community basketball clinic for 50 boys and girls from King’s College and Queen’s College Lagos. The organization also conducted a women's coaching clinic for 50 female coaches, underscoring its commitment to women's empowerment through sports. Earlier this year, Giants of Africa expanded its 'Dribble for Peace' program to conflict-affected regions in the Sahel, including Cameroon, Chad, The Gambia, Guinea, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, South Sudan, and Sudan.

“

Reaching court 50 is a milestone we’ll never forget. To be able to have our 50th be in Lagos makes this moment even more special. Nigeria is home and King’s College is an institution I deeply respect. However, this milestone belongs to all of the communities across Africa who’ve welcomed us, the partners who have walked this journey with us, and the young people who will use these courts to grow, lead, and discover their potential. We’re halfway to 100, grateful for how far we have come, and committed to the next 50 and beyond.