NBA camp to visit Cuba
Xinhua, April 13, 2015 Adjust font size:
An NBA training camp will visit Cuba this month, which will be the first U.S. professional sports organization to visit the country since both governments announced last December the restoration of diplomatic relations.
"It is marvelous that both NBA and FIBA (International Basketball Federation) will contribute in training youth and help develop basketball in our country," said the Cuban Basketball Federation in a statement on April 7.
The program also includes community outreach projects such as the renovation of three courts and training sessions for youth players in two municipalities in Havana, according to the statement.
The training camp will be led by the recently retired Canadian player, Steve Nash.
Dikembe Mutombo, who was recently included in the U.S. basketball Hall of Fame, will also take part in the camp, as well as former female player Ticha Penicheiro.
"It is extremely gratifying to see that Cuba is holding this event which is a result of an effort to strengthen our federations," said Horacio Muratore, President of FIBA .
"This is a country that loves basketball and we are proud to work together with the NBA on this historic venture," Muratore said.
The program is a result of an agreement between NBA and FIBA with the Cuban sports authorities. Endi