Anthony ‘TJ’ Hibbert dies in fatal Colchester car crash
Fatal Colchester car crash death of Anthony ‘TJ’ Hibbert
Plans are underway to dedicate a renovation of a north London basketball court to Anthony ‘TJ’ Hibbert, whose death alongside three friends sparked community efforts for remembrance. Hibbert, described as a talented local player, was killed unexpectedly in Essex.
A group of basketball players known as the Argyle Kings, who frequently gather at Argyle Square in King’s Cross, spearhead these plans. They aim to significantly upgrade the court, which holds deep significance for them as the community’s hub for grassroots basketball. Hibbert played there as a child before joining the Essex Rebels basketball team.
The tragic incident occurred on February 1st when the six young men, all students, died in a vehicle collision near Colchester. Hibbert was 24 years old and a student at the University of Essex. The university expressed profound grief, remembering him as a highly skilled basketball player.
Ray Akpofure, a member of another London basketball group, the Cobham Cobras, has directed the Argyle Kings’ campaign. He first encountered Hibbert at Argyle Square over 15 years ago when the young player was just 12 years old. Akpofure shared fond memories of Hibbert’s early development and his positive impact on the court and community.
Basketball England confirmed the court requires urgent refurbishment. The organization supports the proposed upgrades and also backs memorializing Hibbert at the site. Camden Council has stated its willingness to collaborate, emphasizing its desire to honor Hibbert while improving the court.
The Argyle Kings secured funding and gained backing from Basketball England’s ProjectSwish initiative. They are also working with the non-profit Hoopsfix Foundation and social media advocates Simply British Ballers to raise awareness and find solutions.
Funding is reportedly the only obstacle, with the group expressing frustration about a lack of response from Camden Council regarding their application. Council representatives initially claimed they were still in early discussions about the court’s redevelopment.
Camden Council reiterated its openness to collaborative planning, including exploring appropriate ways to memorialize Anthony ‘TJ’ Hibbert using official public art and memorial guidelines. Basketball England’s facilities manager added that creating a safe, improved outdoor court space honors Hibbert’s memory and benefits the local community.
