BRA - Barbosa lauds Uni programme

SAO BERNARDO DO CAMPO (NBA) - Phoenix Suns guard Leandrinho Barbosa has revealed that he will work with the Brazil Lutheran University (Ulbra) in their sport and social development programme.

The 24-year-old NBA player visited the University building in Sao Bernardo do Campo city, in Sao Paulo state, where the school has a partnership with a basketball team.

After looking at the facilities on offer, Leandrinho insists that there is no reason for Brazilian universities to envy their American counterparts.

"I've been shocked by how good the structure and the facilities are. Everything is as good as in American universities," he said.

"We are looking to develop social projects in many regions across Brazil, where Ulbra have their branches."

Leandrinho is now hoping to involve his fellow countrymen who also ply their trade in the NBA.

"I hope I can make Anderson Varejao and Nene get involved this project and perhaps the whole NBA too, as they are working on a similar social project in Africa," he added.

"I came from the suburbs and I won't forget that just because I'm at the top."

"That's why I want to help children from suburbs and help the next generation of basketball talents in Brazil."

Matias Greco
FIBA