NBA Africa expands court-building initiative with new facility in Rwanda

NBA Africa advanced its goal of building 1,000 basketball courts across the continent over the next decade with the unveiling of a new court in Nyamata, Rwanda on Monday. 

The event, attended by NBA legend and South Sudanese pioneer Luol Deng, marked a significant milestone in the league’s commitment to youth and community development in Africa.

The new court, located at Highland School, was launched in collaboration with nonprofit partner Opportunity International. A second court is set to open on May 27 at the Loiswell Academy in Nairobi, Kenya.

Speaking last year, NBA Deputy Commissioner and COO Mark Tatum described the initiative as a way to provide “safe spaces where Kenyan and Rwandan youth can play the game and participate in programs that help develop the next generation of coaches and mentors.”

The facility in Nyamata includes brand-new hoops and changing rooms, offering a safe and supportive environment for local boys and girls to play and grow through basketball.

“This new court in Kigali reflects our commitment to making basketball accessible to Rwandan youth,” said NBA Africa CEO Clare Akamanzi. “We are proud to continue working with Opportunity International to impact young people and communities through the game.”

The launch featured appearances by BAL President Amadou Gallo Fall, Opportunity International Executive VP Randy Kurtz, and other dignitaries. Following the ceremony, 80 boys and girls aged 16 and under participated in a Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA clinic, while over 50 local coaches took part in a training session on the newly opened court.

“This partnership goes beyond basketball,” said Opportunity International CEO Atul Tandon. “It’s about giving young people tools to succeed — fostering teamwork, confidence, and hope. These courts will also contribute to improved education outcomes and community development.”

NBA Africa noted that in 2023 alone, its youth programs reached over 350,000 young people across the continent.

Meanwhile, the Basketball Africa League (BAL) continues this week in Kigali with the Nile Conference, where teams are vying for a spot in the playoffs scheduled to take place in Pretoria, South Africa this June.