Sports Facilities Group build Nike’s Regal Basketball Court

Sports Facilities Group are proud to be involved in the development of Nike’s most unique sport redevelopment projects to date – The Regal Basketball court at the Black Prince Community Hub. The dramatic transformation of this dedicated indoor basketball court is set to inspire and encourage basketball players from an elite level through to novices and new-comers at local schools and community clubs. As part of the World Basketball Festival celebrations in Brixton, on 30^th June 2012, Nike wanted to leave a lasting legacy for the sport in Lambeth, but with a very distinctive and inspiring twist.

The Regal Basketball Court, so named to signify its ambition to become the hub of British Basketball, is not only one of the most high-spec showcase courts in the UK, but also one of the most eye-catching. Unrecognisable following its overhaul, the brand-new Junckers press dried Beech floor, supplied by SFG is finished in distinctive black oil with HP Sport lacquer over the top and highlighted with basketball-only line markings and ‘The Regal’ brand identity in gold. At either end of the court hang the only gold plated hoops and smoked glass backboards in the UK. The court is also one of very few in the UK with integrated red LED lights that are linked to the scoreboard and shot clocks supplied by SFG – as seen at professional basketball games. The surrounding walls feature bespoke designed flock effect wallpaper with a subtle basketball motif, alongside a prominent motivational quote from Britain’s most successful basketball export, Luol Deng. The finishing touches include a display of ten unique basketball jerseys celebrating British and international heroes of the game as well as four practice backboards around the court.

Offering SFG’s ‘roll away’ seating for 160 spectators, the space has been designed as a dedicated basketball centre with the objective to grow the game in London and the UK. The renovation is just the first step – creating an impressive location to generate excitement and enthusiasm. However, to truly grow the game Nike has also invested in the appointment of a lead basketball coach to develop a yearlong programme of free-to-access clinics, events and training sessions for schools, clubs and the community. Junior Williams, himself a former England and Great Britain international, will shape the agenda and manage the facility.

Simon Charlesworth, brand lead for basketball Nike UK & Ireland said “we want to grow the game and what better way to do so than with an inspirational facility that is centrally located, undercover and most importantly that provides free access to London ballers.”