Tony Parker concludes sports tour in DR Congo

Former NBA star Tony Parker continued his three-day sports development tour of the Democratic Republic of Congo, visiting a basketball academy to engage with local athletes on his last day in the country.

Parker, who met with President Felix Tshisekedi, toured the "Ballers House" facility, which is owned by former Congolese national team player Yacine Ben Fylla. The pair watched courtside as academy trainees shot threes, grabbed rebounds and practiced pick-and-roll plays.

During the meeting in the capital Kinshasa, Tshisekedi showcased a football jersey bearing his name, signed by various visiting footballers. The president then presented Parker with a Phoenix Suns basketball jersey, which he turned inside out before asking the former San Antonio Spurs player and Suns rival to sign it.

Parker, who arrived in Kinshasa earlier this week, presented several projects aimed at promoting Congolese sports.

Parker's visit left a lasting impression on local athletes. Anthony Djuma, a trainee at the Ball Academy, called it a true honor to meet someone who had influenced him throughout his basketball journey. Joseph Abed, another trainee, described the excitement of seeing his idol in person for the first time, calling it a special moment for everyone.

"I've wanted to help the African continent for a long time," Parker told reporters after the meeting. "What we've discussed with the minister is really exciting. I'm really happy for the future."

Parker's tour is part of the former San Antonio Spurs point guard's efforts to promote sports development across Africa, building on his experience of developing French basketball through team ownership and youth academies.

The French-American basketball player, who retired from professional sports in 2019, said he is motivated by the desire to pass on his knowledge and experience.