In the heart of Paris, as the workday winds down and the streetball court lights come on, Paris Playground — PPG for short — steps up as the storyteller. The basketball crew transforms courts into a place of community, inviting in anyone with a love for the sport.
PPG is a vibrant hub, where diverse communities converge on a court, transcending socio-economic boundaries. Indeed, i’s mission goes beyond keeping people active — it’s about blending creative energy, athletic individuality, and companionship into one.
The crew is scattered all over the city—Carpentier, the spectacular Pigalle Depurré, Jardin d’Éole, or Jemmapes— where courts breathe creative air. One standout is at 234 Boulevard de la Villette; Stalingrad, once abandoned but now buzzing with PPG’s rendezvous.
After shedding light on community-based initiatives like PRIM and Refuge Worldwide, Nike brings PPG into the family, showcasing how creative communities unite people through sport. We head to Paris to meet PPG and catch the action on the suburban court behind the fence. Sure, there’s plenty of trash talk on and off the court, but again, it’s all love because PPG is one big family.
We speak with Samuel Ray, aka Older Brother and the founder of the PPG family, who has been highlighting the profiles of PPG Hoopers on Instagram since 2020; one story at a time. He tosses the ball with teammates Adeline Mendes, Yanis Kari, and Alex Mbiali, sharing their thoughts on the initiative, communities, and the Parisian streetball culture.
SAM RAY
Founder at PPG
Tell us a bit about your background.
Born in the U.S. and raised in France. A strong interest in performing arts, cinematography and sports.
How did the whole idea of keeping the Parisian playgrounds buzzing come about? Can you share with us the story behind PPG?
Each summer growing up, I visited my father in New York, where I was immersed in the city culture. Streetball, movie theaters and subways filled up my days with great adventures and interactions. I Majored in Performing Arts and Film. But I spent all of my free time on the playground, between playing and capturing the moment with my friends.
Sharing and creating a platform for creatives to showcase their talents on and off the court. But more than that I wanted to amplify our voices and connect the community. Many have inspired me to create a hub for hoopers and creatives to be heard and seen.
This is why we are PPG.
When did you start feeling like Paris needed something like PPG?
The local playground had become a place of shelter where I found individuals who shared a similar interest. I took it as a clear sign to found PARIS PLAYGROUND — a platform built around connecting people from playgrounds all around the city.
January 2020, was the birth of PARIS PLAYGROUND.
Was it a hustle getting folks onto the court, or did the curiosity flood in from the get-go?
The people were already on the playgrounds, from Saint Paul to Charenton over to Stalingrad across to Carpentier, it’s a quest to spotlight the streetball culture in Paris. It is my view as a common bond that fosters new connections with creative individuals. Each player brings their life into their playing style and rhythm. Streetball serves as our bridge, connecting people across diverse ethnicities, genders, and interests.
What does basketball mean to you?
I give a part of myself on the playground, to find a mutual understanding somewhere in between it all. The new courts and renovations in Paris will be embraced by the community, and give us a sense of unity.
Any community do’s or don’ts?
The key principle here at PPG: Everyone is accepted on the playground, with no discrimination. We don’t see color, or gender, we respect talent and strength. We see people for who they are, and what they stand for.
What is the future for PPG?
The future of PPG is to continue to give back to the community, to inspire and to create more events around. To help more creatives. We currently cover over 30 playgrounds. We wish to expand it to hundreds over the next 5 years and to spread across different cities in France.
PPG also stands for the PEOPLE’S PLAYGROUNDS. We don’t have boundaries.
ADELINE MENDES
Captain of the female PPG Team
Tell us a bit about your story/how you got into playing basketball?
I was 8 when I first decided to play basketball. I attended matches and trained with my older sister. I chose basketball over soccer and athletics as it was more enjoyable.
What sets your crew apart in Paris? What does the team signify?
Our team stands out for its pursuit of excellence. Victory is great, but better when achieved as a team with beautiful gameplay.
Can you describe what basketball means to you?
Basketball helps me decompress, improve myself, and commit to excellence. The sport is about creation, and through it, I've found a second family.
Why is it important to have a space like PPG in Paris?
This family motivates you to give your best for your projects and encourages you to become a better person, as well as a better player. PPG is a representation of Paris, our playgrounds, and our rules.
YANIS KARI
Basketball Player at PPG
How did you get into basketball and eventually join PPG?
I stumbled upon PPG through Instagram, and our collaboration led to the creation of a video together. PPG's mission revolves around sharing their game and the emotions woven into the fabric of playing with an orange ball, fostering a continually expanding community.
My decision to join PPG was fueled by a strong connection with Samuel and a shared goal: modeling. Engaging in my stretches, I step onto the court with unwavering focus, prepared to give my absolute best.
Who inspires you when it comes to basketball/sports in general? Is there someone in your life who pushed you in this direction?
When I'm on the basketball court, my family watches my videos, and their pride in my achievements is palpable. My basketball idols—Collin Sexton, Ja Morant, and Russell Westbrook—inspire me with their extraordinary techniques.
What is a motto you live by?
As for the query about whether this journey is challenging, not really. The most crucial aspect is to dedicate oneself to hard work every day. It requires giving 100% and maintaining unwavering perseverance. Anything is possible if you believe in it.
What would you like to achieve as a part of the PPG family?
My ultimate dream is to ascend to the highest echelons of the sport and compete alongside the world's premier basketball players.
ALEX MBIALI
Basketball Player at PPG
Tell me how you got into playing basketball and what was the reason you started playing with PPG?
Discovering PPG was initially a bit elusive for me, as I had knowledge of the project both before and during its inception. My journey into sports began with football, as is often the case for many boys. However, growing up immersed in American culture, basketball soon became an unmistakable choice when I witnessed the style, atmosphere, and spectacle that the sport offered.
Since its inception, I've been a dedicated member of PPG. My interests span across trainers, music, and martial arts. I have a penchant for listening to intense rap music, particularly before engaging in fights—paired, of course, with a snack of plantain chips. It's become my ritual.
How has the sport made you a better person?
My love for playing worldwide and earning a living from my passion is immense. I aspire to provide my family with a good life and serve as the best big brother and uncle to my younger siblings and nephews.
What player do you look up to?
Kobe Bryant and Cristiano Ronaldo stand as my role models due to their unparalleled work ethic. My cultural background began with African roots, followed by a formative period in American culture. The impact of 50 Cent's album and film, 'Get Rich or Die Tryin',' serves as a profound inspiration in my daily life.
What would you say to encourage more people to play?
Each day kicks off by accompanying my younger brothers to school in the morning, followed by work and training. If there's no training, you'll likely find me at the nearby playground. Through this journey, the most significant lesson I've learned is to never lose confidence in oneself.
In a world that constantly challenges our dreams, maintaining unwavering confidence and patience brings us closer to achieving our destined goals.
