The Euroleague is to host a giant fan zone in Trafalgar Square and introduce a community initiative ahead of Final Four in London next month.
The initiatives were launched on Monday in the capital by league president Jordi Bertomeu and the city’s Mayor Boris Johnson, five weeks before Europe’s biggest basketball event comes to The 02 Arena.
A three-day free fan festival will be held in Trafalgar Square including three courts, merchandise stalls, music, a children’s art centre, dance performances, food and beverage and various photo opportunities.
The Final Four will also see the UK launch of ‘One Team’, the successful grassroots and community programme, will aim to involve local communities in life skill sessions built and developed around participation in sport.
15 Euroleague teams are currently participating in the scheme.
Boris had a go
“London is proud to be hosting the prestigious Euroleague finals, another testimony to this city’s status as a top flight venue for elite fixtures,†said Johnson.
“I am also pleased to welcome the free Fan Zone to Trafalgar Square giving everyone the chance to have a go at this great sport.â€
The last British player to feature in a Final Four has also given the event its backing with London expected to host the season’s conclusion for the next two editions.
“Euroleague Final Four is the biggest basketball event outside of the NBA Finals,†said Great Britain forward Pops Mensah-Bonsu.
“And the commitment by Euroleague confirms London as an up-and-coming city in basketball terms – I have no doubt the local support will be huge, much like when I played in the Paris Final Four event (for CSKA Moscow).
“I look forward to heading down to the Euroleague Fan Zone in Trafalgar Square to shoot-some-hoops with the kids and share the love we all have for this sport.â€
The Fan Zone will run for three days
Watch: Boris Johnson and Pops Mensah Bonsu have a shoot out.
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