Chandigarh, June 27 (IANS): Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal on Saturday felicitated basketball player Satnam Singh Bhamara for creating history by becoming the first Indian to get drafted into the National Basketball Association (NBA).

The seven feet two inches tall, 131 kg hoopster Bhamara, 19, hails from Ballo Ke village in Punjab's Barnala district.

In a congratulatory message, the chief minister said it was a matter of great honour for all Punjabis that Satnam had made a niche for himself in the prestigious NBA league with his sheer hard work and dedication.

He hoped that his rare accomplishment would go a long way to inspire millions of his peers who strive hard to excel in the arena of sports.

Bhamara was picked by Dallas Mavericks. He earlier took part in training sessions with top teams like Sacramento Kings and Boston Celtics.

He was the second round, 52nd pick in the NBA draft and among 60 men who will play basketball in the next season.