Title: French NBA Star Tony Parker Eyes Sports Development in Democratic Republic of Congo
Tony Parker, the French NBA legend, has embarked on a mission to develop sports in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). During his recent visit to the country, Parker sat down with Africanews to share his vision for the Congolese youth and emphasized the importance of "keeping dreaming big."
Parker, who has already invested in a basketball team in France and a women’s team, has been working to develop talent in the DRC. He was inspired by the potential of young players from the country, including Dominique Malonga, who became the first player to go straight from the DRC to the Euroleague and sign a professional contract with Parker’s team.
"I said to myself that we could do something with this country," Parker said. "There is a lot of potential here."
Parker has been working closely with the Congolese President, Felix Tshisekedi, who has expressed his support for the project. "He is a great fan of sport and very enthusiastic about it," Parker said. "We are going to get on very well together because I have the same passion, the same energy."
Parker’s project aims to provide young people in the DRC with opportunities to develop and succeed in various sports, not just basketball and football. "There are many sports in which the Congo is strong," he said.
In addition to his sports development project, Parker is also passionate about music. "I love music," he said. "Congo has a lot of influence in France, and I cannot wait for the new stadium to be built here so we can bring all these artists and have a music festival."
Parker’s message to young people in the DRC who dream of playing in top leagues is clear: "You must keep dreaming big. You must dream big. I always tell the youngsters at my academy: if you tell someone your dream and they do not laugh at you, you are not dreaming big enough."
With his experience and expertise, Parker is well-positioned to make a positive impact on the sports landscape in the DRC. As he continues his work in the country, he is sure to inspire a new generation of athletes and sports enthusiasts.
