Basketball/ Kenya to host Prestigious Road to BAL Elite 16 tournament

Kenya is set to host the highly anticipated Road to Basketball Africa League (BAL) Elite 16 tournament from November 28 to December 3, 2024. The matches will take place at the Kasarani Indoor Arena and Nyayo Gymnasium in Nairobi, marking a historic moment for Kenyan basketball.

The tournament serves as the final qualifying stage for the 2025 BAL season, a premier professional basketball league in Africa established through a partnership between the National Basketball Association (NBA) and the International Basketball Federation (FIBA). This milestone underscores Kenya’s growing stature in the sport and its readiness to host international competitions.

Kenya Basketball Federation (KBF) Chairman Paul Otula expressed pride in the country’s selection, describing it as a testament to Kenya’s organizational capabilities and passion for basketball.

The Elite 16 will feature top teams from across Africa, including Kenya’s own Nairobi City Thunder, alongside strong contenders such as Uganda’s City Oilers, Burundi’s Urunani BBC, South Africa’s M.B.B, Zambia’s Bravehearts Basketball, Malawi’s Matero Magic, South Sudan’s Fox Basketball Club, and the NBA Academy.

Beyond showcasing talent, the event is expected to elevate the profile of Kenyan basketball, attract local and international fans, and boost the economy by driving business activity in Nairobi. The tournament cements Kenya’s position as a key player in African basketball while fostering excitement and unity among enthusiasts of the sport.