hoops africa

A collection of stories celebrating the growth of basketball on the African Continent

u·bun·tu 

(/ʊˈbuːntʊ/ uu-BOON-tuu; Zulu pronunciation: [ùɓúntʼú]) is a Nguni Bantu term roughly translating to "human kindness."  It is an idea from the Southern African region which means literally "human-ness", and is often translated as "humanity towards others", but is often used in a more philosophical sense to mean "the belief in a universal bond of sharing that connects all humanity".  It is often is explained to mean ‘I am what I am because of who we all are’.


Basketball and other sports provide a safe environment where children can develop strong social skills.  HOOPS 4 HOPE (H4H) is a global not-for-profit organization that has supported youth development throughout southern Africa since 1995.  The benefits young people receive from H4H reach well beyond the playing field.  H4H empowers children to become productive adults, engage in healthy lifestyles, manage life’s challenges, and become leaders within their communities and the world. 

In many ways, HOOPS 4 HOPE was the inspiration for this film.  After spending three months volunteering with H4H in Zimbabwe during 2013, Taylor Sharp was compelled to bring stories he learned that summer to life. Both Taylor and Dan can't say enough positive things about the work that H4H does, and our entire team urges you to consider supporting them in any way you can.  By donating much-needed funds, holding an equipment drive, or heading to Zimbabwe or South Africa to volunteer yourself, you can become a part of the Ubuntu effort that is Hoops 4 Hope.