NBA Plans Major Restructuring Of African Basketball League In 2027

NBA Plans Major Restructuring Of African Basketball League In 2027

Sampson Adedeji

The Basketball Africa League (BAL) has become a key player in the continent’s basketball scene, and the NBA is planning a major overhaul that could reshape its future, BSNSports.com.ng reports,

A pivotal moment in the BAL’s evolution could arrive in 2027. The NBA is planning to introduce sweeping changes, including the establishment of a 12-team league, with a focus on enhancing African basketball’s competitiveness and drawing new investors.

The new structure will feature 12 permanent teams, with each franchise required to pay a hefty $50 million entry fee and operate in a world-class arena, as reported by Marc J. Spears. 

While this high price tag might discourage some, the NBA likely intends it as a way to select only the best teams, ensuring high-quality matchups every week.

The NBA has set its sights on cities such as Nairobi (Kenya), Lagos (Nigeria), Abidjan (Ivory Coast), Dakar (Senegal), Cairo (Egypt), Johannesburg (South Africa), Rabat or Casablanca (Morocco), and Kigali (Rwanda) as potential homes for these franchises.

Since its launch in 2020, the BAL has been divided into three conferences Kalahari, Sahara, and Nile with twelve teams competing in each. After the initial conference games, the top eight teams face off in the Final 8, where the tournament’s champion is decided.

While the competition has already generated over $250 million since its inception, the NBA believes restructuring will further boost the league’s appeal, with earnings projected to reach $5.4 billion by 2034.

Beyond financial growth, the NBA is also focused on developing basketball talent across the African continent, providing a platform for the next generation of stars.