Zambia
If you’ve ever wondered whether there’s truth in the statement that “you do not get because you do not ask”, just ask the Zambia Basketball Association.
In an article titled “FIBA helps bring hope to Zambia”, FIBA’s willingness to invest in Africa and contribute to the development of growth and basketball was highlighted.
The International Olympic Committee (“IOC”) recently completed a brand new Olympic Youth Development Centre in Zambia. Apparently the facility cost around US$16 million, and amongst other things it features state-of-the-art basketball facilities.
But here’s the really interesting bit – in March 2008 when it was being developed, the IOC contacted FIBA to ask if they would get involved. FIBA agreed, and along with its associates, assisted in the construction of outdoor courts and provided the necessary equipment required (fixed and movable backstop units, game shot clocks, electronic scoreboards, uniforms, balls etc…) for those courts as well as for indoor multipurpose courts.
While the benefits to Zambian basketball will not be immediately visible, this is a key cornerstone in basketball development in Zambia, one which they will most likely reap the rewards of in years to come.
FIBA can be proud of its involvement in this project and commitment to development of the game of basketball.
Makes you wonder what would happen if the rest of us would only ask.
You can read the full article here.
