Introducing Premier League Kicks Basketball with pro baller Justin Robinson

Palace for Life will now be running free basketball sessions for young south Londoners as part of its Premier League Kicks programme. And, we’ve teamed up with none other than professional basketball player for the London Lions in the British Basketball League, Justin Robinson, to bring you these sessions.

If you are 10-16 years old, join Palace for Life and Justin every Monday at Coombe Wood School, CR2 7HY, between 5 – 7 pm, where participants will get to work on their skills, play fun games, and compete with peers. As well as the opportunity to learn from the pro himself, Justin Robinson, as he helps lead the sessions.

No need to book, just show up ready to play! If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to the community team at community@palaceforlife.org.

When?

Every Monday (starting Monday 30th January) from 5-7pm

Where?

Coombe Wood School, CR2 7HY

And, for those curious about Justin’s career, we’ve even caught up with him to hear about his journey and why he wanted to team up with Palace for Life.

See you on the court!

Hi Justin, we’re really excited to have you on board! But first, we’d like to find out, what made you want to get into basketball in the first place? 

My older brother bought me a Michael Jordan poster at the age of 7 or 8 years old. After that, I started watching NBA VHS tapes, buying magazines and sort of became obsessed with the game. I started playing with friends on my estate and it just became a part of me. My dad then took me down to Brixton TopCats and the rest is history!

What was it like growing up in South London? 

It was great! Growing up in Brixton meant I had a sense of community, culture and history always around me. Of course, there are pros and cons to every place and Brixton is no different. It’s a vibrant place, full of life, so there was never a dull moment growing up.

What does south London mean to you?

South London means everything, it’s part of my foundation. The place I call home, and feel most at ease. Best side of town if you ask me!

What was it like leaving Brixton and attending a high school & College in America? 

It’s a massive culture shock to sum it up. Leaving a fast paced, multicultural city, then going to a prep school in a rural town in the US took some time to adjust. I was 16 at the time by myself, so I had to fend for myself and figure it all out. People didn’t really understand my strong London accent, and homesickness kicked in instantly.

What is your favourite career moment? 

I’d say winning the Cup title and league championship with London lions in 2019.

Also walking out on to the court with my young son at the O2, to collect the season MVP award.

What made you set up the JJRob foundation and how important do you think the community is for young people growing up in south London?

Helping young people has always been my passion. Mentoring, coaching and just being there for these young people is something I’ve been doing for years now, so setting up JJROB LDN was something I felt I needed to do. Community is everything for young people. It’s the support system they need to thrive and succeed in life. It takes a village to raise a child, and a community is exactly that.

You’ve partnered up with Palace for Life to launch some brand-new basketball sessions, what made you want to do that?

I was put in contact with Palace for Life, and it just seemed like an organic collaboration. They are doing great things in the community, and genuinely want to help young people, so for me, it was a no-brainer to take this opportunity.

What kind of activities can young south Londoners expect at the Palace for Life basketball sessions?

Lots of skill work, fun games, and competitions, which will stimulate them mentally and physically. Exposing them to a whole new skill set, and having them step out of the box.

Thanks so much for your time Justin!

For more information on Premier League kicks, please head here

To help support the lives of young south Londoners by donating to our Made In South London campaign, head here