Dear Summer | Victory Lap

Dear summer,

Over the course of this summer I had the opportunity of visiting the hottest cities in America, and participating in the premiere summer leagues. It’s has been a blessing to compete against the top Pros & NBA stars. To utilize the game of basketball as a tool has always been my approach, and now that my goal has come to fruition is magical. Basketball has opened various doors for my life; this game has brought me happiness, compassion, friendships, and brotherhoods. I’ve embraced this journey every step of the way and I’m hopeful to see the next step in my process. 

Aside from my summer experience, one thing that I enjoy greatly is traveling; it has always been a hobby of mine. Growing up as an inner-city kid I wasn't expose to different environments and such forth. Basketball was that outlet for me that got me outside of the box I thought I belonged in. From enjoying the beautiful coast of California to traveling along the 5 boroughs of New York City, it was definitely a sight to remember. The early mornings and late nights paved the way to an eventful summer.  Just a little recap off my summer: LA (Nike Drew League)/off-season W/O's, NYC (Nike Dyckman League) / Fitness Assessment , Toronto (OVO Bounce 2017).

An Intricate part of my summer has been my involvement within the community. I've fully committed myself to make Scarborough a more positive environment through sports, education, and community involvement. One of my highlights of this summer had to be The 3rd Annual Rumble In the Jungle Event; the event brought over 200 out in attendance, that supported the JP II community and it's student-athletes. It was a defining moment in my summer because of great support shown from our community and community leaders. As an athlete I feel obligated to generously give back to my community for the impact it had in my life!

“I’ve fully committed myself to make Scarborough a positive environment through sports, education, and community involvement”

As my summer concludes, it's time get ready for my next step (God's Plan). Summer 2k17 its been a surreal experience and I can't wait to see what this year may bring. I'm definitely going to miss the sun waking me up in the we hours of the morning, but I'll get use to the fall soon enough.   Dear summer, I know your going to miss me!!

Yours Truly,

Hussein Abdullahi

Crown League | Royalty Wins

    Toronto’s Nike Crown league has created its buzz in summer hoops. In it’s 3rd year, Crown league has emerged as the Top Summer Pro-Am in Canada. Given the quality of it’s respective players it gives Pros a platform to compete at a high-level during their off-season. Toronto’s basketball culture has received notoriety for their great development in basketball, and various NBA players have publicly acknowledged the opportunities Crown League has created for all Pros.

    Crown League's MC, Akil Augustine has produced a mini documentary that illustrates the divine evolution of the Crown League, as well as the insight from various Pros and NBA players. This video also highlights some of the advantages that players utilize by playing in Nike's Crown League. Crown League has paid dividends to Canada's developing basketball culture, as well as providing our city with something special. 

“This city is grown with a passion and love for the game of basketball, and man I just want to be apart of it. - Kelly Olynyk (Miami Heat, Foward)”

    Nike Crown League has brought Toronto's basketball community together for 3 years straight, and with high hopes it will continue to raise the bar for Summer Leagues in North America. Congrats to the 2017 Nike Crown League Champs: M.A.D.E. , Toronto is looking forward to next season and remember royalty always wins!

       Video Produced By: Akil Augustine (@akilaugustine)