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Welcome to the thrilling world of the Basketball Africa League (BAL), where the spirit of competition and the passion for basketball unite to create unforgettable moments on the court. From the vibrant city of Pretoria, South Africa, to the bustling streets of Cairo, Egypt, and the scenic landscapes of Dakar, Senegal, and Kigali, Rwanda, join us as we celebrate the beauty and diversity of African basketball on a grand stage.

BAL Comes to Pretoria

The Basketball Africa League (BAL) is set to kick off its highly anticipated fourth season in March, promising an exhilarating display of basketball prowess at the SunBet Arena in Pretoria, South Africa. As the premier professional basketball league in Africa, the BAL continues to captivate audiences with its electrifying games and showcase the continent’s top talent on the court.

The BAL action kicks off with the Kalahari Conference group phase at the SunBet Arena in Pretoria from March 9th to March 17th, igniting the excitement and setting the stage for an unforgettable season.

Expanded Season and New Teams

In a testament to its growing popularity and reach, the 2024 BAL season will feature an expanded roster of 12 club teams hailing from 12 diverse African countries. This season marks a significant milestone as it hosts a record-breaking 48 games spread across four countries: South Africa, Egypt, Senegal, and Rwanda. Among the participating teams, there are five newcomers, representing three new countries making their debut in the league, adding an exciting element of unpredictability to the competition.

Conference Structure and Group Phases

To ensure a fair and competitive playing field, the 12 teams have been strategically divided into three conferences, each comprising four teams. Throughout the season, teams will engage in a 12-game group phase within their respective conferences, facing off against each other twice. This season introduces an innovative format where the home team in each market will grace the court on every game day, including weekends, creating an immersive and dynamic spectator experience.

Qualification Pathways and Partnerships

The teams participating in the 2024 BAL season have earned their spots through a combination of national league championships and qualifying tournaments organised by FIBA Africa, showcasing the immense talent and dedication prevalent across the continent. As the BAL continues to elevate African basketball on the global stage, it proudly maintains partnerships with esteemed organisations like NIKE, Jordan Brand, and Wilson, in addition to welcoming back foundational partners like the Rwanda Development Board. These partnerships play a crucial role in supporting the league’s mission of promoting basketball excellence and fostering youth development initiatives throughout Africa.

Impact and Legacy

Beyond the exhilarating on-court action, the BAL leaves a lasting impact on communities across Africa, inspiring young athletes and fostering a culture of sportsmanship, teamwork, and perseverance. By providing a platform for aspiring basketball players to showcase their skills and pursue their dreams, the BAL contributes to the growth and development of the sport at grassroots levels. Moreover, the league’s emphasis on collaboration and partnership strengthens bonds within the African basketball community, paving the way for a brighter and more inclusive future for the sport on the continent. As the 2024 BAL season unfolds, it not only celebrates the present achievements but also lays the foundation for a legacy of basketball excellence and empowerment that will resonate for years to come.

Exciting Matchups and Ticket Information

Fans can look forward to a series of thrilling matchups throughout the season, with each game promising edge-of-your-seat excitement and intense competition. From the season opener featuring first-time participant FUS Rabat Basketball from Morocco taking on Petro de Luanda, to the clash between Cape Town Tigers and Dynamo Basketball Club, the BAL guarantees an adrenaline-fueled basketball extravaganza. Tickets for the group phases in Pretoria and Dakar are currently on sale, offering fans the chance to witness the captivating basketball action firsthand and be part of history in the making.