PM Narendra Modi calls the first NBA match in India 'historic'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said that first-ever NBA match in India was a historic moment for India-US relations. PM also said that basketball as a sport is very popular in India and appreciated game between Indiana Pacers and Sacramento Kings.

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'More youngsters pursue basketball and contribute to Fit India'

Prime Minister also said that he hopes more youngsters contribute to Fit India Movement through sport.

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Indiana Pacers win inaugural match

This was first time that game came to India. Two NBA teams, Indiana Pacers and Sacramento Kings faced each or in Mumbai on Friday. Indiana Pacers won inaugural game in a 132-131 face-off. This was also first time that a rth American team played in India. Nita Ambani, chairperson of Reliance Foundation, presented ceremonial ‘match ball’ to NBA officials ahe of game. 

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Vivek Ranivé optimistic about growth of Basketball in India

Earlier, speaking to Republic at ground-breaking ceremony of legacy project helmed by National Basketball Association (NBA), Indiana Pacers and Sacramento Kings, Vivek Ranivé asserted that he is optimistic about growth of Football in India.  

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Vivek Ranivé speaks to PM Modi

At a press conference before inaugural NBA game, Vivek Ranivé said that he is looking forward to expansion of NBA in India. He also said that he spoke to Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding growth of Basketball in India.

"I expect that re will be arenas across country where we can play se NBA games. I've spoken to Prime Minister about arenas and importance of arenas and smart cities, cities of future and I kw that he is committed to that." " game will be apted faster than it was in or parts of world," he furr ded.

(With ANI inputs)

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