NBA Africa and Tidewater Inc., a prominent provider of offshore vessels to the energy sector, have announced a multi-year partnership in Angola that aims to elevate the Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA program across the nation.
This initiative goes beyond simply providing basketballs to youth; it focuses on using the sport to foster leadership, teamwork, confidence, and opportunities for young people in Angola.
The current Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA program has already reached over 40,000 young athletes in Angola, establishing the country as a significant basketball hub in Africa. With Tidewater’s involvement, the program is poised for expansion through various activities including tournaments, coaching clinics, leadership workshops, and community investments.
The collaboration commenced in Cabinda, where 60 local coaches participated in a coaching clinic held at Apolonia Complexus. The clinic aimed to provide coaches with essential tools and knowledge to nurture young talent at the grassroots level.
The following day, 150 youth will engage in the inaugural Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA Leadership Workshop Clinic, marking the start of a series of sessions focused on developing leadership and teamwork skills. These workshops will also facilitate connections between young participants and industry professionals as well as community leaders, fostering discussions that reach beyond basketball.
Later this year, the collaboration will take tangible steps within communities, as NBA Africa and Tidewater plan to refurbish local basketball courts and organize the first Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA Tournament in Soyo for boys and girls from nearby areas.
For Clare Akamanzi, CEO of NBA Africa, this partnership leverages Angola’s rich history and passion for basketball.
“Angola has a rich basketball tradition, and we are committed to using the game as a platform to inspire, educate and empower young people across the country.”
