NBA Deputy Commissioner Mark Tatum has identified Nigeria as one of the established basketball markets attracting interest from investors seeking permanent franchises in the Basketball Africa League (BAL), as the competition prepares to introduce a franchise-based model.
Tatum revealed that the league has received dozens of bids from prospective investors across Africa, with Nigeria and Senegal among the established markets generating significant interest.
Other countries attracting bids include Kenya, Rwanda and South Africa, reflecting growing confidence in the commercial potential of professional basketball across the continent.
The proposed restructuring would mark a significant development for the BAL, which currently features clubs qualifying through domestic championships and continental competitions.
Under the new arrangement, permanent franchises would form part of the league’s structure, providing investors with greater long-term certainty while supporting the development of professional basketball organisations.
Tatum indicated that discussions with priority bidders are ongoing, with the first permanent franchises expected to be announced in 2027.
For Nigeria, the development presents an opportunity to strengthen its position in African basketball and attract investment into professional club structures, facilities and player development.
The country has previously enjoyed representation in the BAL through clubs including Rivers Hoopers, who finished third in the 2024 competition.
However, Tatum emphasised that the introduction of permanent franchises would not eliminate opportunities for other African clubs.
The league intends to retain a qualification pathway that allows teams outside the permanent franchise structure to compete at the highest continental level.
That approach would seek to balance the commercial stability of a franchise system with the competitive opportunities currently available to domestic league champions.
The proposed changes come as the BAL continues efforts to expand its reach, strengthen its business model and establish a sustainable professional basketball ecosystem across Africa.
With investor discussions progressing ahead of the anticipated 2027 announcements, Nigeria remains among the markets positioned to benefit from the league’s next phase of development.
