words // Brandon Richard
Continuing to promote the growth of basketball in the UK, Nike recently completed their overhaul of the court at the Black Prince Community Hub in South London, which is now known a 'The Regal.' The court is set to inspire and encourage players from an elite level through to novices and new-comers at local schools and community clubs in London.
Named to signify its ambition to become the hub of British hoops, The Regal is not only one of the most high-spec showcase courts in the country, but it's visually one of the best in the world. The brand new Junckers fully sprung wooden floor is distinctively black and highlighted with basketball line markings and ‘The Regal’ brand identity in gold. On opposing ends of the court are gold plated hoops with tinted glass backboards and integrated LED lights that are linked to the scoreboard and shot clicks. Surrounding walls feature bespoke designed flock effect wallpaper with a subtle basketball motif, alongside a prominent motivational quote from Luol Deng. Lastly, there's a display of ten basketball jerseys celebrating British and international heroes of the game. The gym seats roughly 160 spectators.
Nike also looked beyond the renovation. In an aggressive effort to grow the game, they appointed a lead basketball coach that will develop a year-long program of free-to-access clinics, events and training sessions for schools, clubs and community. Getting the call is Junior Williams, a former England and Great Britain international who will shape the agenda and manage the facility.
Take a full look at 'The Regal' below, including a full-size panoramic view, and visit RegalBasketball.com for more information.
