Partnership to Promote Basketball Among Moroccan Youth

NBA Africa and Evo Sport, a subsidiary of Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P), announced on Friday in Paris an initiative aimed at encouraging basketball among young people in Morocco.

According to a statement from the university, this collaboration will establish the first NBA Basketball School in Morocco and launch four Jr. NBA leagues. This program represents the largest youth basketball development initiative ever undertaken by the NBA in Morocco.

The signing ceremony took place at UM6P-France headquarters in Paris, attended by Hicham El Habti, President of UM6P; Mark Tatum, NBA Deputy Commissioner; Claire Akamanzi, CEO of NBA Africa; and Amadou Gallo Fall, President of the Basketball Africa League (BAL).

The project includes launching four Jr. NBA leagues, benefiting approximately 2,000 boys and girls under the age of 18 annually in Khouribga, Laâyoune, Jorf Lasfar, and Benguerir. Additionally, the first NBA Basketball School in Morocco will be established in these regions. Over 200 local coaches will gain access to specialized training programs.

Claire Akamanzi highlighted the growing passion for basketball across Morocco and expressed excitement about strengthening efforts to develop the sport in the country, especially ahead of the first BAL games in Morocco this April.

Hicham El Habti shared his enthusiasm for the partnership, emphasizing that UM6P believes in the power of sports to inspire and educate young minds. This initiative aligns with the university’s mission to foster innovation and contribute to Africa’s socio-economic development.