Youngsters in the community already enjoy a wide range of sporting options, from rugby and cricket to hockey. However, one sporting code rarely gets the spotlight – until now.

The newly formed Key West Basketball Club is officially open and ready to welcome fans of the game.

According to founder Manx Pickett, the club may still be in its early stages, but its goal is to build teams comprised of young, energetic players.

Manx told the Krugersdorp News that the club aims to create a space where young people can grow, compete and socialise.

“The West Rand is a very sport-oriented community; however, we wanted to introduce something new. Many people in the region are familiar with basketball but cannot play the sport because it’s not available at schools or local clubs,” Manx said.

He added that, in most cases, fans have to travel outside the West Rand to play, but that will change now that the club is based in Krugersdorp.

So far, the club has a solid group of 10 players and hopes to compete against other regional teams to raise awareness and grow support for the sport. Manx, a qualified basketball coach, obtained his licence and training from the University of Florida in the United States. The club also offers volleyball.