ExxonMobil and NBA Africa launch Jr. NBA League in Luanda, Angola

"ExxonMobil is very proud to work with NBA Africa to leverage the sport of basketball and develop the youth in Angola," said ExxonMobil Angola Lead Country Manager Katrina Fisher.

ExxonMobil and NBA Africa have announced the launch of a new Jr. NBA league in Luanda, Angola, operated by PanAfricare, a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the health, education, and productivity of African communities. The league, featuring 40 boys’ and girls’ teams for youth ages 16 and under, began its inaugural season on Friday, May 17, at Escola Nº 2055 Quedas de Kalandula, with former NBA player Muggsy Bogues in attendance.

This league is set to engage over 10,000 youth participants this year through various basketball clinics, competitions, and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) sessions. The season will conclude with playoffs and finals in September. As part of the NBA’s Her Time to Play initiative, the league will also offer all-girls basketball clinics, promoting opportunities for girls and women to play basketball and explore careers in coaching and athletic leadership.

"ExxonMobil is very proud to work with NBA Africa to leverage the sport of basketball and develop the youth in Angola," said ExxonMobil Angola Lead Country Manager Katrina Fisher. "Together we will not only grow the game, but will also support the personal development of our youth. Just as in STEM fields, where experimentation and collaboration are key, sports teach young individuals the value of perseverance and working together towards a common goal."

Franck Traore, NBA Africa Head of Basketball Operations, emphasized the significance of launching the Jr. NBA league in Angola, a country with a strong tradition and passion for basketball. "Launching a new Jr. NBA league in Angola will provide more opportunities for Angolan youth to learn and play the game. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with ExxonMobil and using the game to teach important life skills that have applications both on the court and in life."

Rachel Ochako, Director of Programs at PanAfricare, highlighted the crucial role of youth in Africa’s growth. "The youth are pivotal to Africa’s growth and hold the potential to lead and solve an array of socioeconomic challenges limiting sustainable development in their communities. We are honored to be collaborating with ExxonMobil and NBA Africa to provide a platform for the youth to strengthen their leadership skills and use the game of basketball to further develop their interest in and knowledge of STEM."

The launch of the Jr. NBA League in Angola follows the recent establishment of a similar league in Maputo, Mozambique, last month by ExxonMobil and NBA Africa.