Joakim Noah Launches "One Basketball League" in Effort to Unify Chicago
Joakim Noah with the Chicago Bulls
By: Omar Cook
Former Chicago Bulls star Joakim Noah has announced the launch of the "One Basketball League" in Chicago this month. In partnership with 28 violence prevention groups, the program is designed for men aged 16 to 25 living in the city's west and south sides. It will offer financial incentives for players and also provide off-court programs and job opportunities.
“The city is divided in a lot of ways, and one of the ways to unify this city is through hoop. Just like we were talking about, some of my best friends to this day are from playing basketball,” Noah stated to Stadium’s Shams Charania. “That’s what we’re trying to do. We’re trying to unify this city, so we’re working with 28 violence prevention groups and we’re doing a big tournament. We’re unifying the city through this tournament and bringing in all the OGs. Obviously, the basketball is the way to bring them in, but the programs that come in after is the real peace work. I’m really proud of it.”
Awesome: Former Bulls star Joakim Noah is launching “One City Basketball League” in Chicago this month in collaboration with 28 violence prevention groups. It will provide financial incentives for players, off-court programs and job opportunities. pic.twitter.com/w3XXB0zUpj
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) May 1, 2023
Noah left the Bulls after the 2016 season to join the Knicks, but his connection to Chicago remained strong. Noah has been involved in various philanthropic initiatives, including the Noah's Arc Foundation aimed at supporting children in the area. He also spearheaded the Peace Basketball Tournaments aimed at ending gang violence and promoted the "Rock Your Drop" necklaces to further his mission of ending gang violence in the city.
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
