Jordan Brand and Satou Sabally Help Restore Berlin Basketball Court for Young Girls
WNBA player and athlete Satou Sabally has helped refurbish a basketball court in her Berlin hometown, which has provided a safe space for young girls to play the game. She partnered with local artist Bahar Bambi to design a paint scheme inspired by the city’s multicultural heritage, plus nods to Sabally’s and Bambi’s respective Gambian heritage and Turkish style.
‘I’m very interested in the concept of intersectionality,’ says Sabally. ‘As a woman, you have to constantly fight battles that other people never have to think of. Refurbishing the court is a small step in giving marginalised groups like young girls the same chance to play basketball, have fun and stay safe.’
‘As a kid, I always hung out on the street courts,’ says Bambi. ‘I’ve always admired the competitiveness and team spirit of the game. Watching basketball while I paint is one way I get inspired to create. The dedication and focus that players like Satou bring to the game is motivating to me.’
The court is found at Tempelhofer Feld, a public park in Berlin that was once an airport. Jordan Brand and local community partners including Sp0rt365 – TiB eV, Türkiyemspor, Berlin Braves, Seitenwechsel, Gangway, Ballsie and Coach Ireti will provide free basketball classes during the summer to young girls from culturally diverse backgrounds.