Regional Basketball Development Program: Five Cities Receive Modern Scoreboards

GBF 2024-02-09

In a significant move to promote and develop basketball in various regions, the Georgian Basketball Federation recently conducted a field trip to five cities across Guria, Samegrelo, and Imereti. This initiative is part of a long-term program run by the Federation’s Regional Development Department in collaboration with the FIBA Youth Development Fund.

The cities of Ozurgeti, Poti, Senaki, Samtredia, and Khoni were the latest beneficiaries, receiving modern basketball scoreboards and a 24-second shot clock device. This distribution is part of an ongoing effort, which has already seen nine cities in Georgia equipped with these advanced basketball tools.

Key figures from the Federation, including President Nikoloz Tskitishvili, Regional Development Department Head Shalva Oniani, his deputy Aleko Petriashvili, and representatives from the technical and press services, were present during the visits. They were warmly received by local government leaders and regional basketball federation presidents. Teen basketball players eagerly met with Tskitishvili, a former national team member and the 5th pick in the 2002 NBA draft.

In Khoni, the visit was highlighted by the presence of current national team member Duda Sanadze. Sanadze, whose father Gia Sanadze is a notable former basketball player from Khoni, has trained extensively in the local gym that received the new scoreboard.

During these visits, national federation representatives also provided local governments with recommendations to improve sports halls and ensure they meet modern standards. Commitments were made in several cities to address deficiencies, particularly concerning court covering and heating.

The Georgian Basketball Federation is committed to continuing its regional development program, aiming to enhance infrastructure across the country’s basketball hubs and foster greater interest and motivation among local youth to participate in the sport.