Prahran’s iconic hardcourt has been the home to everyone that loves the game of basketball. From young beginners still learning to dribble to hardened streetballers who’s crossover would make Allen Iverson proud; Prahran’s unforgiving blue concrete courts have also been home to The King of The Court basketball tournament that has been a part of Stonnington council’s VIVA Youth Festival since its inception in March 2013. The tournament brings together all cultural backgrounds of the community with a key focus of keeping active, while of course, creating a friendly yet competitive environment.
When speaking to David Coles – the director of MSF sports who put on the event each year – on what the event means to the community, the emphasis on youth and solidarity is evident. Explaining how the tournament can act as “an inspirational platform to aspire to for youngsters to one day compete for the title, and gives all a sense of belonging, inclusion and entertainment”, King Of The Court is an event for young aspiring athletes to get involved and meet like-minded individuals in the community. Just by wandering down to watch the tournament, there is no doubting it’s positive morale and cultural impact on the community, especially among Melbourne’ssneakerheads who may not play the game of basketball, but certainly follow its footwear. Looking at sneakerhead culture in Melbourne, we went out and asked some participants of the annual King Of The Court a few personal questions about their time in the game and the shoes that defined them.
Paora Te Paki
Age 35
What team do you play for?
Beast Mode Crew
What position do you play?
Guard/Small Forward
How long have you been playing basketball?
25 Years.
Favourite team?
Golden State Warriors.
What sneakers do you currently play in?
I got a pair of Asics you can’t find in 14s.
What are five dream sneakers you’d own tomorrow?
Jordan 11s in light blue, black and white, red and white; like those old school Patrick Ewings and always liked those K-Swiss in white, but never had my size.
If you became King of the Court, which celebrity would be your Queen of the Court?
I’d have to go with Alicia Keys.
Eamon Larman-Ripon
Age 25
What team do you play for?
Nobody at the moment, I just train and play pickup.
What position do you play?
Combo guard, 1-2 depends on who I’m playing with.
How long have you been playing basketball?
Since primary school, it was the thing to do.
Favourite Team?
Right now, Miami Heat. They look good and have an attitude about them.
What sneakers do you currently play in?
Hyperdunk Lows 2012, they’re so good!
What are five dream sneakers you’d own tomorrow?
All Black AJ3’s. I had some when I was young and loved them. Although they are not ‘ball shoes, a pair of Air Max 1’s OG in colour way, RM Williams in black, some Nike slides and another pair of Kobe 3’s in black and white.
If you became King of the Court, which celebrity would be your Queen of the Court?
I don’t need a celeb, as long as she’s my queen ! (How corny is that – hah!)
Nicholas Masunda
Age 30
What team do you play for?
Melbourne Tigers (SEABL)
What position do you play?
Guard/Forward
How long have you been playing basketball?
18 years
Favourite Team?
Too hard to choose.
What sneakers do you currently play in?
NIKE LIL’ PENNY POSTE
What are five dream sneakers you’d own tomorrow?
Air Jordan 1, Air Jordan 12, Air Jordan 13, Nike Air More Uptempo and Adidas Crazy 1, all black.
If you became King of theCourt, which celebrity would be your Queen of the Court?
Missy Elliot
The tournament is on Prahran skate park’s iconic blue courts this Saturday and is show to showcase some of Melbourne’s finest local basketball talent with a cash prize up for grabs. There is currently a petition calling out for the refurbishment of the local courts due to the increase in demand from the community. You can find the petition to give the courts a well overdue facelift here, as it has been over 10 years since the court was last maintained. In the meantime, get down to the courts this weekend to show your support for the community.
King Of The Court at VIVA Youth Festival
Saturday 9th April 2016, 10am – 5pm
Princes Gardens, Malvern Road, Prahran
*FREE ENTRY* | For more info, click here or RSVP
