Over the weekend of 29 and 30 June,
two new basketball courts were inaugurated in Lombardy, born from the collaboration between the creativity of street artist Francesca Cassani, under the name "
Nine in the Paint", and the technology for sports surfaces of
Mapei, leader in chemical products for the building industry. Two projects combining art, social commitment and passion for sport.
A tribute to Kobe
The first playground, built in Via Casnedi Park in Valmadrera in the province of Lecco, is dedicated to Kobe Bryant. This extraordinary tribute to the legendary champion of the Los Angeles Lakers is a true masterpiece of urban art. The design, inspired by the team's iconic colours of yellow and purple, features geometric lines that contrast with the surrounding black. The image of Kobe Bryant is depicted in two versions: on one side as 'rookie' with the number 8 and on the other as 'senior' with the number 24, symbolising the different stages of the champion's career. At the centre of the court, a snake in the shape of infinity represents Kobe's tenacity and determination, recalling his nickname 'Black Mamba'.
This project was realised thanks to the collaboration between the Consulta Giovanile (Youth Council) and the Sports Office of the Municipality of Valmadrera, as part of the 'Participatory Projects' initiative that actively involved the citizens. The inauguration was celebrated with the 'Mamba Legacy Youth 3vs3' tournament, an event that honoured the sport and the legacy of one of the greatest basketball players of all time.
In memory of Niko
The second basketball court, located in the Brazzelli Park in Busto Arsizio in the province of Varese, is dedicated to the memory of Niccolò Sartoni, 'Niko', a motor science teacher and basketball enthusiast, who died prematurely of a melanoma.
The renovation of the playground was financed by the MeLaGioco association, founded in memory of Sartoni, which promotes sport, medical prevention and support for young students. The redevelopment of the Brazzelli Park basketball court represents a significant step towards these goals, offering the community a high quality sports area and a meeting place for inclusive events and activities. The inauguration ceremony was enriched by the third edition of the NBK 3vs3 tournament, which celebrated Niko's passion for basketball and promoted social inclusion through sport.
Mapei contributed to these urban art projects realised by Francesca and her talented team composed of Veronica Tajè, Alessandro Cuocolo, Anna Marchesi, Giulia Vitale and Federica Zappa, with
TNS system products which, in addition to meeting any chromatic and aesthetic requirements, ensure high play performance, excellent slip resistance and exceptional durability.
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