NBA executives are expected to connect with African …

NBA officials are anticipated to meet with African government representatives during the United Nations General Assembly this week, according to sources who spoke with SBJ. The league is advancing a plan to sell up to 10 permanent Basketball Africa League franchises to private investors. Initial bids in June reportedly came from markets such as Morocco, Nigeria, Senegal, Kenya, Rwanda, and South Africa, with multiple offers surpassing $50 million, which is considered the largest proposed investment in basketball on the continent.

The NBA's objective during the UN General Assembly in New York, which commences on Tuesday, is to discuss its Basketball Africa League (BAL) vision with these government officials across Africa, and subsequently, to advance talks with priority bidders. Since its inception six years ago, the BAL has functioned as a caravan-style league, with 12 teams from 12 African nations qualifying annually.

However, sources indicate that the expectation is to gradually introduce permanent franchises beginning with the 2027 touring season. Ultimately, the BAL aims to end up with 10 privately-owned teams in subsequent years and launch a home-and-away template, with the league's 11th and 12th teams still qualifying annually annually.