Club seeks basketball shoes so players can shoot hoops

When children do not have the necessary kit to play in, it is difficult for them to enjoy sports as a hobby or take part at school.

As part of its first annual Like Mike sneaker drive, the local basketball team Midrand Heat has partnered with Tshepo Matsie, a well-known and respected member of the basketball community in Midrand.

Nicolette Leballo, a player and marketing manager for the club, said the campaign was conceived after Matsie told her about a basketball tournament attended by children who had no proper shoes to shoot hoops in.

“We spoke about how when we were growing up we had teachers, coaches, and mentors who made it their mission to help us succeed either through sports or academics by literally buying us kits because they knew that a little help or encouragement could make or break you,” said Leballo.

Through this initiative, Midrand Heat aims to make the journey a little easier for the disadvantaged future ballers to be greater versions of themselves.

Locals can help by donating new or gently worn running shoes or basketball shoes at any scheduled Midrand Heat games to any team member.

The Midrand Heat basketball court at Country View Park is an alternative drop-off point for shoe donations. The team began accepting donations on August 1 and the initiative will run until December.

“Basketball sneakers are expensive and we have talented young players that can use this sport or any other sport to stay out of trouble and try to do something productive with their time,” said Leballo.

The club is also seeking sponsors to help upgrade its court including the provision of lighting as sometimes they play night games.

Currently, Midrand Heat competes in the Johannesburg Basketball League in the men’s and women’s divisions.

Related Article:

https://www.citizen.co.za/midrand-reporter/308761/kgodu-dreams-big/