NBA Africa has unveiled an ambitious initiative to construct 100 outdoor basketball courts in Kenya, aiming to expand the sport’s presence in the country. This effort is part of a broader plan to build 1,000 courts across Africa over the next decade.
In collaboration with the global nonprofit Opportunity International, NBA Africa will not only build the courts but also launch a development program for coaches and teachers in Nairobi, Kenya, and Kigali, Rwanda. This program will equip participants with skills in coaching, refereeing, game operations, event management, and program administration.
NBA Africa, a branch of the National Basketball Association (NBA), made the announcement during a press conference in Nairobi, with NBA Deputy Commissioner and Chief Operating Officer Mark Tatum, Opportunity International CEO Atul Tandon, and five-time NBA champion Derek Fisher in attendance.
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"Our partnership with Opportunity International highlights our dedication to fostering local basketball ecosystems across Africa and empowering youth with leadership and basketball development opportunities," said Tatum. "We are excited to create safe spaces where young people in Kenya and Rwanda can engage in the game and participate in programs that nurture the next generation of coaches and mentors."
Tandon echoed these sentiments, stating, "We are excited to collaborate with NBA Africa to bring top-tier basketball facilities and coaching to Africa. This initiative aligns with our long-term commitment to providing greater educational and development opportunities for African youth."
Additionally, the Jr. NBA, the league’s global youth basketball program, continues to teach core basketball skills and values at the grassroots level. Last year, it reached over 170,000 young players across Africa.
