The NBA has recruited hall of famer Hakeem Olajuwon to be their new ambassador to Africa. Olajuwon will work closely with the NBA office in Africa with their development of the sport in Johannesburg with the help of Amadou Gallo Fall, NBA Vice President for Development in Africa.
“Basketball has given me so much in life,” said Olajuwon. “In this new role I am looking forward to impacting young Africans and utilizing the power of sport to help change lives in what is an exciting new chapter in my career.”
Fall:
“We are elated that one of the greatest to ever play the game, a son of Africa, and a legend of Hakeem’s stature will officially represent the NBA in Africa,” said Amadou Gallo Fall. “He truly embodies the values of the game, and will be a great ambassador for the league and a perfect role model for Africa’s youth.”
Olajuwon, who is from Nigeria, was the NBA’s first African to be selected as the number one overall pick in the 1984 draft. The NBA has chosen a great representative. Olajuwon will have the opportunity to reach children and expand their dreams beyond their wildest imaginations. I appreciate the NBA reaching out to help with that development of other countries and expanding the game beyond the US border. Every child should have an obtainable dream so great job to the NBA for contributing to their success.