American Cola has officially opened the renovated basketball facility in Ilupeju, Lagos, as part of an initiative to foster grassroots sports and nurture young athletic talent. The project, carried out alongside the Odi-Olowo/Ojuwoye Local Council Development Area, included the donation of jerseys to local male and female basketball teams and the hosting of the second American Cola Shoot the Hoop and Half Court tournaments.
Known now as the American Cola Creative Court, the space is designed to support both basketball growth and broader community creative endeavors. Naji Awada, Marketing Manager at Planet Bottling Company, emphasized that the renovation aims to build a lasting foundation for athletes, noting that the brand intends to replicate this model in other communities to support overlooked talent.
Communications Manager Franklyn Eluagu highlighted that the company is actively scouting basketball-focused neighborhoods across Lagos to upgrade facilities. Beyond sports, the court serves as a hub for artistic expression, including music, dance, and graffiti, providing a welcoming environment for students and residents.
The Chairman of the Odi-Olowo/Ojuwoye Local Council, Oduwoye, noted that the facility has already drawn significant interest from neighboring areas. He stated that the partnership supports the council’s mission to provide positive alternatives to street life for youth. Ongoing discussions are currently evaluating the potential for American Cola to revitalize approximately five additional parks within the district for football and other recreational activities.
The unveiling featured the Shoot the Hoop and Half Court tournaments, which saw 48 teams competing for a total prize pool of ₦5 million, with individual tournament winners set to receive significant cash awards.
