Fans attending the April 1 game at Chicago’s United Center were introduced to Albanian traditions as part of the “Albanian Heritage Night” event organised by the Albanian-American community in Illinois.

“In United Center, we marked a first for our community. Together, we brought Albanian culture to one of Chicago’s biggest stages, with representation from across all Albanian regions,” the community said in a social media post.

Community representatives said more than 650 Albanian-Americans attended the event, which featured traditional performances during the game.

Dance ensembles including “Arbëria Chicago”, “Shqiponjat e Chicago”, “Ensemble”, and the Albanian-language school “Kongresi i Manastirit” took part, with choreography led by Albanian artist Altin Naska.

While cultural heritage events are common at NBA games, organisers said this was the first time Albanian music and dance had been formally presented during a game in the league’s history.

The NBA, one of the world’s most widely watched basketball leagues, regularly hosts themed events celebrating the diversity of its fan base.

/KosovaPress/u.sh/