Norton Sound Health Corporation (NSHC) has announced funding for the construction of outdoor basketball courts in five communities. The move comes as the predominant healthcare provider in the Bering Straits works to ensure all communities in the region have access to outdoor basketball courts.

The funding from NSHC’s FY2023 Board Donations Budget includes $100,000 each for Nome, Shaktoolik, Wales, Diomede, and Golovin. NSHC noted in an email to KNOM that they are not managing the projects, leaning on local communities to bring the projects to completion. 

Plans for the City of Nome’s outdoor basketball court are already underway, with Bristol Engineering creating bid specifications to hire a contractor for construction of the court. Bristol Engineering expects the basketball court to exceed the $100,000 provided by NSHC. Nome’s outdoor court would be built near the Nome Recreation Center. 

Basketball is a popular sport in rural Alaska, providing an outlet for both youth and adults to stay active throughout the year.

“Activities for youth and adults are important to promote as the region’s health care provider. If adequate activity opportunities are available, there may be less suicide, drug use, and overall chronic disease,” NSHC President and CEO Angie Gorn said in an email to KNOM.