Outdoor Basketball Court at National Gymnasium to close for upgrades

The outdoor basketball court at the National Gymnasium will be closed from January 15-23 to facilitate a series of upgrades, according to the National Sports Commission (NSC).

The temporary closure forms part of the NSC’s ongoing programme to improve and maintain sporting facilities across the country, ensuring they are suitable for training, competition and the hosting of major events.

Director of Sport, Steve Ninvalle said the upgrade of the basketball court aligns directly with the NSC’s mandate under the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport to ensure that all facilities under its management are kept in proper condition to accommodate the needs of their respective disciplines.

“This closure and upgrade fall in line with our national drive to ensure that facilities under the care of the NSC are properly maintained and upgraded to meet the demands of the sport being played,” Ninvalle stated.

“Our goal is to provide athletes with safe, functional and high-quality venues that support performance and development.”

Ninvalle pointed out that similar work is being  carried out at the National Aquatic Centre, which is  benefitting from upgrades aimed at improving its overall standard and readiness for competition.

He noted that the outdoor basketball court is part of a broader schedule of facility improvements, with more venues expected to undergo upgrades in the coming months.

“The NSC and the Ministry are prioritising the need to ensure that our facilities are at the required standard to host matches and events under the parameters set out by the relevant international sporting bodies,” Ninvalle said.

He added, “This is critical if we are to continue hosting quality events and preparing our athletes for regional and international competition.”

The NSC has advised stakeholders and regular users of the facility to make note of the closure period, while assuring that the upgrades will enhance the overall playing experience once the court re-opens.