NBA Africa to build 100 Basketball Courts in Kenya as part of continental expansion

NBA Africa has announced plans to construct 100 basketball courts in Kenya, as part of its larger initiative to build 1,000 courts across Africa. This effort is aimed at developing the sport and providing youth with opportunities to engage in basketball across the continent.

The announcement was made during a press conference in Nairobi by NBA Deputy Commissioner and Chief Operating Officer Mark Tatum, Opportunity International CEO Atul Tandon, and five-time NBA champion Derek Fisher.

NBA Africa is partnering with Opportunity International, a global nonprofit organization, to not only build basketball courts but also establish a comprehensive development program for coaches and teachers. This initiative will focus on Nairobi, Kenya, and Kigali, Rwanda.

Five-time NBA champion Derek Fisher, NBA Africa CEO Clare Akamanzi, Opportunity International CEO Atul Tandon, NBA Deputy Commissioner and Chief Operating Officer Mark Tatum and NBA Kenya Senior Director and Country Operations Lead Michael Finley during a press conference in Nairobi on October 8, 2024. [Photo/NBA Africa]

“Our collaboration with Opportunity International reflects our commitment to investing in local basketball ecosystems across Africa and providing youth with the resources and opportunities to develop their leadership and basketball skills,” said Mark Tatum. “We look forward to working together to create 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.”

Atul Tandon, CEO of Opportunity International, added, “We are thrilled to work with NBA Africa to bring world-class basketball courts and coaches to Africa. This initiative is key to our longstanding commitment to bringing more education and more opportunities to the youth of Africa. We are grateful to NBA Africa, NBA Deputy Commissioner Tatum, and our longtime friend and partner Sam Garvin for coming together to help build a rising Africa.”

Additionally, NBA Deputy Commissioner Mark Tatum, accompanied by five-time NBA champion Derek Fisher and US Ambassador to Kenya Meg Whitman, met with President William Ruto at State House. During the meeting, it was also revealed that the NBA is establishing its commercial hub in Nairobi, marking a significant boost for investment in Kenya.

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