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NBA Deputy Commissioner Mark Tatum (back center), Jaypee Greens Managing Director Manju Sharma (to Mark’s left) and NBA India Managing Director Yannick Colaco (to Mark’s right) join coaches, VIPs and the inaugural class of 21 prospects at the official opening of NBA Academy India (Credit: NBA)

Sejin Joins NBA Academy as It officially opens Yesterday in Noida

NEW DELHI – Sejin Mathew the only participant from Kerala as joined at the of NBA Academy India, an elite basketball training center at Jaypee Greens Integrated Sports Complex in Delhi National Capital Region (NCR) for the top male and female prospects from throughout India. When it officially opened by National Basketball Association (NBA) yesterday

 According to NBA release 

Twenty-one elite male prospects, who were selected following a three-month, nationwide basketball talent search, will receive scholarships and training at NBA Academy India, the first of its kind in the country.

Today’s opening event, which included a traditional Indian “lamp lighting” ceremony, on court drills and a scrimmage among the prospects, was attended by NBA Deputy Commissioner Mark Tatum and NBA India Managing Director Yannick Colaco.

NBA Academy India will employ a holistic, 360-degree approach to player development with focuses on education, leadership, character development and life skills. As part of the program, the students will compete against top competition throughout the year and will have an opportunity to be selected for travel teams that play in international tournaments and exhibition games.

“The opening of our first academy in India is an important milestone in the NBA’s efforts to grow basketball in India and demonstrates our commitment to developing talent and shaping the game’s future here,” said Tatum. “These 21 young athletes and those who will attend this academy in the years to come will receive world-class coaching and training to help them fulfill their potential on and off the court.”

Three experienced coaches have been selected to guide the development of the players at NBA Academy India. Ray Farrell, who has coached at the collegiate level in the U.S. and conducted basketball camps internationally for 36 years, will serve as Technical Director and will oversee all aspects of on court and off court development. Jacques Vandescure, a former professional player and former NBA scout who has coached across Africa, will serve as the Player Development Coach. Todd Gates, a former coach at the NCAA Division I level for 10 years, will serve as the Strength and Conditioning Coach. WNBA Legend Jennifer Azzi will be the Technical Director of the girls program at the academy.

This residential academy will be a good opportunity to learn more. There are good facilities like indoor basketball courts, gym and swimming pool,” he added.

The NBA also plans to set up a women’s academy. “It’s in the pipeline, and we have nominated Jennifer Azzi as technical director for the girls’ programme,” said NBA deputy commissioner Mark Tatum.