July 21, 2022
BAL Participation at the 2022 Quai 54 in Paris beyond basketball a celebration of Africa and its diaspora
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On July 9 and 10, the 19th Edition of the Quai 54 took place in Paris at the Champ de Mars near the Eiffel Tower. Considered the biggest streetball tournament in the world, this edition brought together 16 male teams and 8 female teams from 9 countries (France, Slovenia, Spain, UK, Germany, Capo Verde, Congo, Cameroon, and Switzerland) to compete for 2 days.
The objective of the BAL’s participation at this year’s event was to build emotional proximity with the African diaspora, connect with the basketball fans to grow the presence of the BAL beyond the African footprint, build awareness, and set the stage for future collaboration between the BAL, Quai 54, and leverage on media presence to tell the story of the league.
BAL activities during the Quai 54 included a content display on Quai 54 digital platforms, screens, and online and offline platforms. BAL Associate Vice President and Head of Content Youcef Ouldyassia presented the league during a five-minute Q&A at the court.
The BAL season 2 teams were represented by the Cape Town Tigers and 10 other players, including Solo Diabate two-time BAL champion with Zamalek (Egypt) in 2021 and US Monastir (Tunisia) in 2022, Jon Pedro BAL Season 2 finalist with Petro de Luanda (Angola), Joel Almeida Semi-Finalist with Forces Armees et Police F.A.P from Cameroon.
In addition to the BAL players, this edition of the Quai 54 was a real celebration of the African culture. Talents such as Kevin Franceschi (Morocco), Max Kougere (Republic of Central Africa), and Assemian Moulare (Ivory Coast) demonstrated increased interest in the African continent through their performances and pledged actions in support of the continent.
In addition to the BAL players, this edition of the Quai 54 was a real celebration of the African culture. Talents such as Kevin Franceschi (Morocco), Max Kougere (Republic of Central Africa), and Assemian Moulare (Ivory Coast) demonstrated increased interest in the African continent through their performances and pledged actions in support of the continent.
The event sponsored by Jordan Brand saw the presence of 2 NBA superstars: Zion Williamson and Luka Doncic. Luka gave support to a Slovenian team. Zion spent a lot of time with Parisian communities. Together, they took part in the Quai 54 dunk contest and officiated as judges.