Abu Dhabi Launches Inaugural jr. NBA League, Cultivating Young Basketball Talent
Abu Dhabi, UAE – The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu dhabi) and the National Basketball Association (NBA) have teamed up to launch the groundbreaking Jr.NBA Abu Dhabi League. This exciting initiative will bring the thrill of basketball to 450 young athletes aged 11-14 from 30 schools across Abu Dhabi.
The league, kicking off on March 5th, will culminate in the first-ever NBA Abu Dhabi Jr. League Finals on May 21st.
The launch was celebrated with a vibrant inauguration ceremony and draft event. Each school was assigned an NBA team, receiving matching jerseys and participating in basketball clinics, skills challenges, and engaging contests.
Adding to the excitement, 40 Special Olympics athletes from Abu Dhabi participated in a Special Olympics Unified Clinic, highlighting the league’s commitment to inclusivity.
This new league, part of the global Jr. NBA program, will feature 20 boys’ teams and 10 girls’ teams, with plans to expand to include more schools and leagues in the future.The Jr. NBA Abu Dhabi League is a cornerstone of a multi-year partnership between the NBA and DCT Abu Dhabi. This collaboration will see Abu Dhabi host historic pre-season NBA games in the Arabian Gulf in october 2022. The partnership also encompasses a range of fan events featuring NBA stars, health and wellness clinics through NBA FIT, and an NBA 2K League exhibition.
Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “Hosting the first Jr. NBA League in the UAE is an honor for Abu Dhabi. This initiative will inspire young people across our emirate to embrace basketball, a sport that fosters community, teamwork, leadership, and healthy lifestyles.We are thrilled to share our passion for basketball with the world and nurture the next generation of sporting talent.”
Ralph Rivera, NBA Europe and Middle east general Manager, emphasized the league’s commitment to youth growth, saying, “Launching the Jr. NBA Abu Dhabi League marks a notable milestone in our partnership with DCT Abu dhabi. We are dedicated to promoting teamwork, respect, and inclusion through basketball, inspiring and connecting the next generation of players and fans.”
NBA legend Clyde Drexler, who participated in the event, shared his excitement, stating, “It was inspiring to connect with the young athletes participating in the Jr. NBA Abu Dhabi League. Basketball has been a driving force in my life, and I believe this program will empower these children to pursue thier dreams. Who knows, the next NBA superstar might emerge from this league!”
The Jr. NBA Abu Dhabi League aligns with the shared values of leadership, possibility, and inspiration championed by both the NBA and DCT Abu Dhabi. Through league games, events, and clinics, the program aims to encourage young people to lead active and healthy lives.
Globally, the Jr. NBA program reaches nearly 37,000 young people in 28 countries across Europe and the Middle East during the 2021-22 season.
This partnership also designates DCT Abu Dhabi’s “Visit Abu Dhabi” initiative as the NBA’s Official Tourism Partner in the Middle East, north Africa, Europe, and China, further solidifying Abu Dhabi’s position as a global sporting and tourism destination.
Dribbling into the Future: An Interview with Coach Becky hammon
Welcome back, basketball fans, to another insightful episode of “Courtside Chat!” Today, we have a true legend of the game joining us— Coach Becky Hammon, WNBA champion and head coach of the Las Vegas Aces. Coach Hammon, thanks for taking the time to talk with us.
Becky Hammon: Thank you for having me! It’s always great to talk hoops.
Host: We’re thrilled to have you, especially considering the exciting news coming out of Abu Dhabi.The launch of the Jr. NBA Abu Dhabi League is a game-changer, wouldn’t you say?
becky Hammon: Absolutely.This is amazing for the sport. we’re talking about planting the seeds of basketball passion in a whole new region.It’s an investment in the future, not just for the UAE, but for the global basketball community.
Host: You mentioned “global.” The Jr.NBA has a huge international footprint already, reaching nearly 37,000 kids across 28 countries during the 2021-22 season [[1]]. How significant is this global outreach for the sport?
Becky Hammon: It’s massive. basketball is a truly global game, and initiatives like this cultivate a sense of community and shared passion across borders. It shows these young players that they’re not alone in their love for the game. It opens doors, inspires dreams, and who knows, maybe we’ll see the next international NBA superstar emerging from the Jr. NBA Abu Dhabi League.
Host: I think many would agree that portrayal matters. This new league goes beyond just the game itself, with the inclusion of Special Olympics athletes in the Unified clinic. What are yoru thoughts on this aspect of the initiative?
Becky Hammon: I love it. it demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity and accessibility in sports. It breaks down barriers and shows that basketball is for everyone, regardless of ability. That’s the kind of surroundings we need to nurture – one were everyone feels welcome and inspired to play.
Host: Now, Abu Dhabi is no stranger to making a splash in the world of sports. They’ve hosted historic pre-season NBA games and even secured NFT partnerships. [[1]] How do you see this partnership between the NBA and the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) evolving in the future?
Becky Hammon: It’s a winning combination. DCT Abu dhabi is clearly committed to bringing world-class sporting events to the region, and the NBA brings its incredible brand recognition and global fanbase. I see this partnership expanding, bringing even more exciting events and opportunities to Abu Dhabi.
Host: Coach Hammon, what message do you have for the young athletes participating in the Jr. NBA Abu Dhabi League?
Becky Hammon: Embrace the journey! This is a fantastic chance to learn, grow as players and individuals, and most importantly, have fun. Who knows where this journey might take you? Remember to work hard, stay dedicated, and never give up on your dreams.
Host: Coach Hammon, thank you for your insightful viewpoint. This is certainly an exciting time for basketball in Abu Dhabi and around the world. Now, before we wrap up, let’s open this up to our viewers. do you see the Jr. NBA Abu Dhabi League inspiring the next generation of basketball stars? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
