Cape Town - Academy Award-winning actor Forest Whitaker was all smiles on Tuesday as he unveiled a new basketball court in Bridgetown, Athlone.

The special unveiling by the Hollywood star actor and social activist took place at the Cornflower Sports Field yesterday with the aim of promoting basketball on the Cape Flats.

Addressing the crowd, Whitaker acknowledged the severe socio-economic ills plaguing Athlone, saying he hoped the new court would help bring about a positive change.

“Last May, I went to watch the Basketball African league and when I was there I was thinking about this court and that someone from Cape Town would be in this league. I know that there are difficulties in the community and the NBA has created a safe space for the kids,” Whitaker said.

The colourful blue and red court was established by the Whitaker Peace and Development Initiative (WPDI) in partnership with NBA Africa and the City of Cape Town.

The WPDI was founded in 2012 by Whitaker, and works with young women and men for the promotion of peace, reconciliation and social development within communities affected by conflict and violence.

Whitaker told the youth: “Some of you might become ball players and some of you will be dealt with decisions in your life. I think here in this court you will find some connection, a safe place and enjoy life.”

Hollywood star Forest Whitaker was all smiles yesterday as he unveiled a new basketball court in Bridgetown, Athlone. Picture: Byron Lukas/Independent Newspapers

The colourful blue and red court was established by the Whitaker Peace and Development Initiative (WPDI) in partnership with NBA Africa and the City of Cape Town. Picture: Byron Lukas/Independent Newspapers

The colourful blue and red court was established by the Whitaker Peace and Development Initiative (WPDI) in partnership with NBA Africa and the City of Cape Town. Picture: Byron Lukas/Independent Newspapers

NBA Africa CEO Victor Williams said they were proud to be part of the initiative.

“NBA helps to grow the game so that boys and girls can play the sport but also learn their values, help them transform themselves and society. We are very pleased to bring this to Bridgetown in Athlone.

“The people of Cape Town are hungry for the game of basketball, this court is your court.”

Avid basketball players and kids from the community had the opportunity to shoot some hoops on the newly built court.

Deputy mayor Eddie Andrews said that the City did some nifty footwork to ensure the pitch was ready for the summer holidays. He encouraged youngsters to use the court every day.

“You can have an acclaimed guest to tell you what your future will be like but if you don’t grab hold of your future you will be a statistic, so grab hold of the ball on the court,” Andrews said.

Chris Osborne, chairperson of the Bridgetown Community Development Forum, described the event as a “historic moment” for the community.

“For someone like Forest Whitaker to come and invest in our community is huge. We ask the children to go for excellence and brilliance,” Osborne said.

Deputy mayor Eddie Andrews, NBA Africa CEO Victor Williams, Forest Whitaker and Chris Osborne. Picture: Byron Lukas/Independent Newspapers

byron.lukas@inl.co.za

Cape Argus

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Hollywood star Forest Whitaker unveils new basketball court in Athlone