FIBA President Hamane Niang hoops it up back home in Mali

KAYES (Mali) - FIBA President Hamane Niang visited the oldest basketball court in his hometown of Kayes, Mali, on Monday, the very place where he was introduced to the game.

The four basketball clubs in the city staged tournaments and Niang both watched the action and played some himself.

"I rediscovered the sensations of 55 years ago on this court," Niang said with a big smile after playing.

FIBA President Hamane Niang played some basketball on Monday in his home city of Kayes, Mali

"In Kayes, young people are used to organizing basketball tournaments during the holidays," he said. "It's the court where the young Cheick Diallo, who plays in the NBA with the Phoenix Suns, once played."

There is always a buzz at these tournaments.

"The basketball tournaments have local media, artists, Kayes supporters associations and a young audience," Niang said.

"Kayes is a basketball town known for the development of young players."

FIBA