American Cola has unveiled a newly renovated basketball court in Ilupeju, Lagos, in partnership with the Odi-Olowo Ojuwoye Local Council Development Area (LCDA). The multi-million naira project, dubbed the American Cola Creative Court, promises more basketball court projects, youth empowerment initiatives, and community tournaments across Nigeria.
A Hub for Young Talent
The renovated court has been redesigned into a multi-purpose creative hub where young people can play basketball, create content, dance, make music, and express themselves. Marketing Manager at Planet Bottling Company, Naji Awada, said the project goes beyond painting a basketball court. "This project is about more than new hoops or branding, it's about reigniting the passion for basketball, nurturing young talent, bringing the community together, and creating opportunities for future stars."
Expanding Grassroots Basketball
Awada added that the Ilupeju project is only the beginning of the company's investment in grassroots basketball. "We want this to be just the beginning. Our goal is to expand to more communities, uncover hidden basketball talent, and give young players the opportunities and attention they deserve." Communications Manager at Planet Bottling Company, Franklyn Eluagu, echoed Awada's sentiments, stating that the company wants to create a space that serves more than just basketball players. "We are committed to improving community basketball courts and supporting players to help grow the sport in Lagos and across Nigeria."
Community Support and Competition
Beyond renovating the court, American Cola also donated community jerseys to support local teams. According to Eluagu, the company produced 10 red and 10 white jerseys for male and female players, with an extra set planned for the following year. The unveiling also marked the start of the American Cola Basketball Tournament, with players from communities across Lagos battling for prize money. The competition featured two categories: Half Court Challenge and Shoot the Hoop, and attracted teams from various locations in Lagos.
A Boost for Local Basketball
The American Cola Creative Court is not just a basketball court; it's a hub for young talent and creativity. The renovated court gives young people a space to develop their talents and express themselves, whether they play basketball, create content, or make music. As the company continues to invest in grassroots basketball, it's clear that American Cola is committed to supporting the growth of the sport in Lagos and across Nigeria.
The court's reopening also coincided with the second edition of the American Cola Shoot the Hoop and Half Court tournaments, with 24 teams competing in each category. Some of the matches were played during the unveiling ceremony as teams battled for a share of the ₦5 million prize pool. The competition will continue in the coming weeks, with the winners of the Shoot the Hoop competition taking home ₦800,000, while the second- and third-placed teams will receive ₦400,000 and ₦200,000 respectively. For the Half Court tournament, the champions will earn ₦2 million, with the runners-up receiving ₦1 million and the third-placed team taking home ₦500,000.
Source: Pulse.ng
