MVP 1994, Hakeem Olajuwon ”The Dream’’, was appointed Wednesday NBA ambassador in Africa. Double champion with the Houston Rockets (1994 and 1995 MVP of the Finals), the former pivot of Nigerian origin will be to ensure the development of basketball operations and assist in the promotion of the sport on the continent.

“Basketball has provided me so much. In this new role, I want to have an impact on young Africans and use the power of sport to change lives, it is a very exciting new chapter in my career that begins,” said in a statement the best blocker of the history of north American basketball Championship ( 3830 blocks) .

The Hall of Famer will work with African offices in the NBA based in South Africa (Johannesburg) and led by Senegalese Amadou Gallo Fall.

“Olajuwon is one of the greatest players in history. He is a son of Africa and a legend who will represent the league in Africa. He embodies the values of this game and he is perfect in the role as a model for African youth,” said Gallo Fall while announcing the appointment.

Since 2003, the NBA created 38 places to live, learn and play in Africa. Works that include sports facilities, medical and humanitarian centers, and basketball courts in Angola, Botswana, Nigeria, Senegal, Kenya, Cameroon, Sudan and South Africa.