Camden Council is partnering with US National Basketball Association (NBA) star OG Anunoby and the Greater London Authority in what will be the pilot project of the Mayor’s London Basketball Taskforce.
The Council plans to upgrade the basketball court to support local talent and aim to establish the capital’s hub for grassroots basketball in partnership with the Mayor of London. The court is in Argyle Square Gardens, a public park close to King’s Cross station, and is one of the few basketball courts in central London.
The Council has announced basketball superstar OG Anunoby as an official partner in the project, who is expected to visit the court, contribute to design proposals, and develop a connection with Camden’s basketball community ahead of the refurbishment works.
Camden-born Anunoby plays for the New York Knicks, who won the 2026 NBA Championship this year, and is widely regarded as one of the elite forwards in the modern era of basketball. OG's legendary moment in the NBA Finals in June propelled him to superstar status, securing his place in basketball history.
The basketball star maintains his strong ties to London through annual basketball camps at the University of East London (UEL) among other initiatives, and this investment in the regeneration of Argyle Square court will further support grassroots basketball and create opportunities for young people across the capital.
The partnership consists of Camden Council, Greater London Authority, NBPA Foundation and OG Anunoby, who will all provide funding as part of a pilot project of the Mayor’s London Basketball Taskforce, which aims to build on the rising popularity of basketball, secure major events and elevate the sport's profile in London.
Argyle Square basketball court draws players across London and beyond, and is home to the Argyle Kings, a basketball community group known for developing local talent and fostering community participation in the sport. As part of the project, the Council will work with the Argyle Kings to honour the memory of local player Anthony 'TJ' Hibbert, who died in a car crash in 2025 at the age of 24, and provide a space for other players like TJ to develop their love for the game.
The renovation of Argyle Square basketball court is part of Camden’s Green Space Investment programme which will also improve the wider park facilities. The Council is currently carrying out community engagement with residents to consider for the final proposals due in the coming weeks.
“We want residents and visitors to have access to a diverse range sports in Camden and high-quality facilities. That’s why we’re looking into how the court can reach its fullest potential, not just through refurbishment but also by investing in low-cost access and coaching – ensuring that every young person in Camden has the opportunity to discover a new sport, new skills and potentially a new pathway.”
„
“The Council is committed to improving green spaces and facilities in the borough to ensure they meet the needs of local communities, and the Argyle Square Gardens project is one of our most ambitious projects yet. The Green Space Investment Programme will see a £315,000 investment in improvements across the gardens, where residents can look forward to the much-anticipated renovation of the basketball court, alongside new and improved street furniture, planting, landscaping and measures to increase biodiversity. These enhancements will help make the gardens safer, more inviting and accessible for all.”
Councillor James Slater, Cabinet Member for Planning and a Sustainable Camden
„
“I’m determined to ensure that every young Londoner can access high-quality places to play basketball and fulfil their potential. So I’m delighted London’s own NBA superstar OG Anunoby is backing our efforts to improve basketball facilities across London and inspire the next generation of players.
“Through my Basketball Taskforce and our partnership with the NBA, we’re improving opportunities for young Londoners and ensuring basketball can thrive in every part of our city.
“London is the sporting capital of the world, and I look forward to continuing to work with OG and the NBA to grow the game and build a healthier, fairer and more prosperous London for everyone.”
Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan
„
“Argyle Square Gardens is not only the birthplace of the best community I've ever been a part of, but it is also where I've met some of the best friends I could ever ask for. We're all incredibly grateful for the council's willingness to collaborate with us, and we're excited to get started, see the work progress, and witness the final outcome. I hope the court continues to be the heart of the community, providing opportunities for the next generation of basketball players to grow, develop, and thrive—not only as athletes but as people.”
„
"Basketball continues to grow rapidly across London, and investing in quality facilities is critical to unlocking the sport's long-term potential. Courts are more than places to play – they are spaces where communities come together, young people build confidence and future talent is developed. We are proud to work alongside the Mayor of London, OG Anunoby and the NBPA to help strengthen the basketball ecosystem across the capital and create more opportunities for the next generation to engage with the game."
„
Further information
In a survey of 83 people who use or want to use Argyle Basketball Court, conducted by Hoopsfix, 100% of the people said it would attract more players and events to the court.