Opening of the GOGI & GIGI Basketball Court

The cross-border court by two of basketball's greatest legends is coming to the Slovenian-Italian border!

The GOGI & GIGI cross-border basketball court will open on 4 October 2025 at 17:00 together with Goran Dragić – Gogi in the cross-border green belt along the border between Slovenia and Italy, close to Europe Square. 

Symbolically connecting the two countries, the court is part of the European Capital of Culture 2025 Nova Gorica - Gorizia official programme. The new court will connect Goran Dragić – Gogi and Luigi Datome – Gigi, legendary basketball players from Slovenia and Italy, and has already been called the GOGI & GIGI Borderless Court. The total surface area of the sports court is 569.75 m², while the entire development area covers 998 m². The court will be publicly accessible to all residents and visitors.

Saša Dobričič, the author of the conceptual design of the cross-border green belt and designer of the playground, explains: "The playground will be part of the ECoC district, located between Kolodvorska pot and the existing cycling path. The design is based on a deepening of approximately two metres below the level of the green belt. The Gogi hoop will be oriented towards Italy, while the Gigi hook will be oriented towards Slovenia." The deepening allows for natural green stands that will create a unique space to play and for various public events within the ECoC. The playground will be accessible to the physically challenged and will change its appearance through the seasons as the vegetation grows.

Programme:

• 10:00–14:00: Borderless 3x3 Tournament (U14)
  Young basketball players from the clubs of Nova Gorica and Gorizia will compete in a friendly tournament. The event is organized and run by KK Nova Gorica mladi.
• 15:00–16:00: Show Program – Dunking Devils, the world-famous acrobatic group will deliver an adrenaline-filled performance at Kolodvorska pot, full of stunts, laughter, and excitement. 17:00–18:00: Official Opening of the GOGI & GIGI Basketball Court, ceremonial speeches, symbolic ribbon-cutting, and project presentation. The program is hosted by RRA Severne Primorske.
• 18:00: Media time – press statements and official photos.
• 18:45: Autograph signing and photo session. An opportunity to meet famous basketball personalities and celebrate the opening of the court together.

Sport and culture without borders!