A FORMER NBA star will be passing on some of his ‘tips’ to keen basketball players in the borough this summer after partnering the City of Birmingham Basketball club.
Hakeem ‘The Dream’ Olajuwon has moved from America to pursue a new life in the Midlands – and is keen to get involved in the local basketball scene.
The 53-year-old posted a stunning 26,946 points during his NBA career and was the first selection in the 1984 NBA draft – a draft that included Michael Jordan, Charles Barkley, and John Stockton.
Standing at 7’ 0” – previously 7’ 4” – Olajuwon’s legendary footwork was considered to be the best in basketball history.
The Olympic gold medalist admitted he’s enjoying life in the area and only being stopped for his height – not his celebrity status that he holds in his homeland.
Olajuwon will be part of the City of Birmingham Basketball summer camp and be running sessions on Saturday’s from 4pm until 6pm at Langley School on Kineton Green Road in Olton – the first session starting on Saturday (July 9).
Sunny Gill, whose son plays for the club, said the news was great for Solihull and could spark more interest in the sport.
He added: “Hakeem is one of basketball’s great players and to have him deliver lessons in Solihull and the surrounding area is fantastic news for the sport in the midlands.
“He is partnering with the City of Birmingham Basketball club and we already have plans in place regarding the future of basketball in the area.
“There are some fantastic coaches in the midlands and plenty of interest – however the number of competitive games taking place is low and that’s something we want to improve.
“Hakeem’s addition to the area can only be a good thing and I’m sure he’ll be made welcome by everyone.”
Visit www.cobbasketball.co.uk/play/solihull or call 07812 506662 for further information.
