Today, multi-platinum, award-winning rap powerhouseAJ Tracey will perform live from the UK’s first floating basketball court, specially designed by the NBA and Hennessy. The court will float down the Thames, from Woolwich to The Houses of Parliament, before the AJ gig kicks off a weekend of activity celebrating the NBA’s 75th Anniversary Season and the 2022 Finals.
For the opening event, today Thursday 9th June, the West London born rapper and global star will take to the court for an exclusive live streamed performance at 7:30pm BST, honouring the long-standing connection between basketball and hip hop, and the sport’s influence on UK street culture.
Speaking on his involvement, AJ Tracey says: “It’s incredible getting NBA fans, like myself, to come together and celebrate the NBA’s 75th Anniversary Season this year. Moments like this really put London’s love of the game on the map, and with the ongoing support from Hennessy, I’m excited to see the impact it has on basketball in the UK and the communities it’s giving back to..”
On Friday 10th June, the court will play host to a star-studded tournament, “London’s Got Game”, bringing together some of the capital’s biggest names and vital communities in street culture, including D Double E, P Money, Backroad Gee and more. Fans can follow the action online, which will be hosted by British professional basketball player, Ovie Soko.
On Saturday 11th June, the court opens to the public, as Hennessy invites the city’s 18+ basketball fans to celebrate the NBA and play on the floating court at a free-to-attend event. Attendees will have the chance to take part in free throw challenges and learn trick shots from the pros, whilst enjoying complimentary Hennessy cocktails, street food and live DJs.
The London floating basketball court is the latest iteration of “Courts Beyond Limits” – a globe-travelling series from Hennessy and the NBA that unveils first-of-their-kind basketball courts at iconic locations around the world. Courts Beyond Limits first premiered in Australia in May 2021 with a takeover of Bondi’s Icebergs Ocean Pool and was followed by pop-up courts in Lagos, London, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Sydney and Taiwan.
The 2022 NBA Finals continue Thursday, June 9 when the Boston Celtics host the Golden State Warriors for Game 3, live in the UK on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Arena at 1:45 a.m. GMT. The best-of-seven series is currently tied 1-1.
Tickets for Saturday 11th June available: HERE
