Abu Dhabi: Basketball icons Danny Green and Gary Payton celebrated the positive influence of the Jr. NBA Abu Dhabi League, which recently wrapped up its fourth edition with a finals event held at NYU Abu Dhabi.
The tournament first tipped off in November and is a collaboration between the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) and the National Basketball Association (NBA).
During the league’s closing ceremony, Green and Payton presented trophies to the season’s top teams, which included Raha International School Khalifa City Campus (Dallas Mavericks), British International School (Milwaukee Bucks), and ADQ teams representing both the Golden State Warriors and Boston Celtics. David Watts, Associate Vice President for Global Partnerships at NBA Europe & Middle East, also took part in the ceremony.
This year, the league reached new heights, expanding to four leagues comprising 122 teams and involving 1,830 players from both Abu Dhabi and Al Ain. The Jr. NBA program is part of a multi-year partnership between the NBA and DCT Abu Dhabi, which also includes the staging of six NBA preseason games in Abu Dhabi since 2022.
The Jr. NBA is the NBA’s flagship global youth development program for boys and girls. It aims to instill through the game of basketball, encouraging a lifelong commitment to an active and healthy lifestyle.
Following the finals events, Arab News spoke with Danny Green and Gary Payton to hear their insights and reflections.
Danny Green
As a three-time NBA champion, what does it mean to you to see programs like the Jr. NBA inspiring young athletes in Abu Dhabi?
It means everything to me. I remember being that kid — full of dreams and passion, with basketball as my passport to the world. Seeing that same spark in these young athletes here in Abu Dhabi is beyond humbling. Knowing that I’ve inspired someone to pick up a basketball is something I’ll never take for granted. It’s one of the most rewarding aspects of my career.
How important is it to teach life values like teamwork and respect alongside basketball skills?
It’s incredibly important. Not everyone will make it to the NBA, but the life lessons learned through basketball — leadership, communication, discipline — stick with you forever. Those are the kinds of skills that help you thrive in any profession or life path. Basketball is a vehicle for life education.
Based on your time in Abu Dhabi, do you see room for the basketball culture to grow?
Absolutely. Every nation starts somewhere. Countries like France and Serbia weren’t always basketball powerhouses either. What I’m seeing here — the passion, the infrastructure, and efforts like the Jr. NBA — show that there’s a real foundation being built. Over time, this region can become a real force in international basketball.
What advice would you offer young athletes here aiming for the NBA?
Never give up. Persistence, focus, and belief in yourself go further than raw talent. I didn’t come from a big city or big-name school — I had to grind. Look at players like Steph Curry or Steve Nash — not the tallest or strongest, but they mastered their skills and outworked everyone. If you’re grinding while others sleep, you’re already ahead.
Gary Payton
You were known for grit and passion — how can Abu Dhabi’s Jr. NBA players develop that same mindset?
That fire has to come from within. You can’t teach it — but you can create the right environment to unlock it. Competition lights the spark. When these kids step on the court and play against each other, something clicks. Let them fall in love with the process — that’s when the mindset grows.
How important are leagues like the Jr. NBA to a young player’s development?
They’re everything. Especially today, kids need structure and guidance. This program teaches them how to play the game right, how to grow as athletes and as people. You’re only as good as the competition you face, and the Jr. NBA gives them a taste of that higher level of intensity and professionalism.
What’s impressed you the most about the youth here in Abu Dhabi?
Their passion and eagerness to learn. That’s what jumps out. They’re not just showing up to shoot hoops — they’re engaged. They watch NBA games, follow their favorite players, and are hungry for knowledge. And with the NBA bringing games and stars here, it makes the game feel real and achievable for them. The potential is undeniable.
One piece of advice for Jr. NBA players chasing success both on and off the court?
Start by being a well-rounded individual. Not everyone will become a pro, and that’s fine. Education comes first. Chase your dreams, but also be open to other passions — business, art, whatever lights your fire. The important thing is to set goals and work hard for them. Basketball might be a part of your life, or just the beginning of something greater. Either way, give it your all.
V.2 Editorial Team
