Pune kid selected for NBA academy

Pritish Jitesh Kokate, a player from Maharashtra, has been nominated to be a part of the ACG-NBA Jump National Finals. India’s first-ever national basketball talent search programme, which tipped off its 2018 National Finals on May 3. The selected players become the second batch to receive scholarships and training at the NBA Academy India. Kokate was also a part of International U-15 camp organised by the Qatar Basketball Federation in 2016.

Pritish was born in Pimpri-Chinchwad and has been playing basketball since he was 9-year-old. The 16-year-old, who measures 185cm (shade over six feet) and weighs 66kg has been part of four different teams and has been a post presence and rebounder for them all.

From 2012 onward, he has been part of the Kamalnayan Bajaj School and the Sharp Shooters Club. For the seasons of 13-14 and 15-16, he was part of the Maharashtra State Team (SGFI) and has played for Maharashtra (through the MSBA and with the added role of Captain) in 2015-2016.

The National Basketball Association announced 8 new prospects from ACG-NBA Jump National Finals, The 2018 ACG-NBA Jump National Finals marked the culmination of a talent search which comprised of regional clinics and an open submission allowing players to submit video entries showcasing their basketball skills, athletic ability and attitude.  The top 50 players from the nationwide-scouting program were selected for the ACG-NBA Jump National Finals.

Los Angeles Lakers’ Brook Lopez was present through the two-day camp and shared his personal drills and training techniques with all the finalists.  He was also involved in selection of the new prospects for The NBA Academy India.
50 Finalists from Nationwide Scouting Program were Shortlisted for the ACG-NBA Jump National Finals Prospects Selected will receive 100 per cent scholarships and training at The NBA Academy India