NBA Africa CEO Clare Akamanzi marked a major milestone for the Basketball Africa League (BAL) during the launch of the Nile Conference in Kigali, reflecting on five transformative years since the league’s inception.
Speaking at the event, Akamanzi described the BAL’s journey as one defined by “growth” and “partnerships.” She highlighted the expansion of the league’s fan base, increased media viewership, and stronger collaborations with partners such as the Rwanda Development Board, Jordan Brand, Nike, Wilson, Hennessey, and RwandAir.
“From where we started to where we are today, the word that best defines our progress is growth,” Akamanzi said. “Our partnerships have been essential in helping us reach this fifth season.”
The BAL, a joint initiative between the NBA and FIBA, recently wrapped up conferences in Morocco and Senegal before arriving in Kigali. According to Akamanzi, those events underscored the league’s upward trajectory and its importance to Africa’s sports economy.
Akamanzi also unveiled findings from a new socio-economic impact study. The results show that over its first four seasons, the BAL contributed $250 million to the GDP of its host countries and created 37,000 jobs. Looking ahead, projections suggest BAL could drive $5.4 billion in GDP and create 650,000 jobs across Africa over the next decade.
“We are not just growing a game,” she said, “we are contributing to economic transformation across the continent.”
The Nile Conference is the third and final leg of the BAL 2025 regular season and is set to culminate in the BAL Playoffs, which will also be held in Kigali.