NBA Africa and Quest Water Global have announced a multi-year collaboration that will see the construction or renovation of 55 basketball courts in the Democratic Republic of Congo by 2030, in tribute to Dikembe Mutombo. The project supports NBA Africa's wider goal of building or renovating 1,000 courts across Africa over the next ten years.
The first court was inaugurated on September 29 at the Cercle Onatra in Kinshasa, where a young Mutombo made his first rebounds before moving to the NBA. The number 55 is painted at the centre of the court. The next facility is due to open in the coming weeks in Mbuji-Mayi, Mutombo's hometown.
"Our collaboration with Quest Water Global will expand access to basketball in the Democratic Republic of Congo, a country that holds a special place in the history of our sport due to the significant impact and lasting legacy of Dikembe Mutombo," said Clare Akamanzi, Executive Director of NBA Africa.
Quest Water Global, which specialises in water access solutions and infrastructure, becomes NBA Africa's official partner for infrastructure development in the DRC. The launch event in Kinshasa also included a Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA session attended by 80 local coaches.
Mutombo's widow Rose said the project reflects convictions her husband held dear. The four-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year and eight-time All-Star died in 2024 at the age of 58. He contributed to the opening of the Biamba Marie Mutombo Hospital in Kinshasa in 2007, named after his mother.
