Ujiri’s Giants of Africa unveil 54th court in Gambia

Giants of Africa, at the weekend, unveiled its 54th court in Jimara, The Gambia, as part of its Built Within initiative, a commitment to building 100 community basketball courts across Africa.
 
The non-profit organisation, founded by Dallas Mavericks Team President and Alternate Governor and UN Sustainable Development Goals Advocate, Nigeria’s Masai Ujiri, completed the project in partnership with Jaha Dukureh, the UN member, Goodwill Ambassador for Africa, and founder/Chief Executive Officer of Jaapo Capital Company Ltd.
 
The organisation reached a major milestone earlier this year as it opened its 50th community basketball court in Lagos, Nigeria.
 
Saturday’s official opening ceremony was attended by The Gambia’s Minister of Trade, Regional Integration and Employment, Mod K Ceesay, Governor of the Upper River Region, Samba Bah and District Chief of Jimara, Julaba Drammeh.

Located in The Gambia’s Upper River Region, Jimara’s new court is envisioned as a hub for women from across the region, creating a gathering space that fosters connection, mentorship, and opportunity alongside sport.
 
The court’s design draws inspiration from the baobab tree, a powerful symbol of strength, wisdom, and togetherness in The Gambia. Traditionally a gathering place for storytelling and shared decision-making, the baobab serves as a fitting metaphor for the court itself: a space where community, mentorship, and opportunity come together.
 
Speaking on the project, Jaha Dukureh, a longtime supporter of Giants of Africa, said: “Many children in Jimara have never held a basketball, let alone had a court to play on. Today, through our partnership with Giants of Africa, we are changing that reality.
 
“This court represents far more than basketball. It represents hope, opportunity, and the beginning of a much larger vision to establish an educational and training hub where young people can learn, develop their talents, and dream beyond their circumstances. I am deeply grateful to Masai Ujiri and the entire Giants of Africa team for believing in our community and bringing this vision to life.”
 
Explaining the choice of Jimara for the new court, Ujiri said: “Our first visit to The Gambia is truly special. Jaha, our dear friend, is building opportunities in Jimara, and we’re grateful to be part of her vision for this district. May the Jimara Hope court bring joy, unite this community, and open doors for young people, especially girls and women.