Giants of Africa unveil two basketball courts in Dagoretti

A massive banner with the words 'Dream Big' stood at the entrance of two state of the art basketball courts due for unveiling in Dagoretti High School.

Those were the same words that accounted for much of what Giants of Africa Co-founder and President of NBA franchise Toronto Raptors, Masai Ujiri stressed about as he made his opening remarks on Friday morning.

His not-for-profit organization - marking its 20th year in existence - was once again making a big step in impacting the youths and developing the game of basketball in the continent.

“It’s a pleasure to be here again," Ujiri, who is also the only African-born President of a professional sports franchise in North America, remarked in his brief introduction.

"I want to thank the people of Dagoretti, the honorable dignitaries and everyone who was part of this journey."

For a couple of months, dating back to early June 2022, construction work had been going on at one of the three fields in Dagoretti High School. 

The result now was two new standard basketball courts adjacent to each other - and with a protective fence around them that bore a banner with the words Dagoretti High Dreams Big.

At center-court, both red, white and blue-floored courts had a branding - GIANTS AFRICA.

“What you see here is a big call to all the campers and young players to dream big," Ujiri added, addressing a group of twenty plus young talents that had graced the momentous occasion.

"This is a proud moment for us," Dagoretti South Member of Parliament John Kiarie remarked.

"We don't take this [opportunity] for granted. And as Mr.Masai challenged us, we will seek pathways towards investing in our community."

Kiarie also promised his efforts towards beautifying the park and terraces with artwork.

And as all participants gathered to cut the tape a few minutes past 11am, there was a feeling that a new dawn had fallen on the school's basketball aspirations.

"I lack words," Dagoretti High School games master and basketball coach Maxwell Okuna said.

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"This is a significant step made on our courts. To imagine that this is selfless, I am beyond thankful."

With the team finishing runners up in the national secondary school games in the past year, Okuna's message was simple.

"It's now business. We have a formidable team, our opponents should watch out."

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From that colorful event, Giants of Africa is set to unveil two more basketball courts in Kenya; DIWOPA and Umoja 2 courts in Nairobi that will complement the three - Sauti Kuu Foundation, St John Primary Catholic school (Korogocho) and Samburu Girls Foundation - already in existence.