The National Basketball Association (NBA) has announced plans to build 100 basketball courts across Kenya over the next decade as part of a strategic initiative to grow the sport in schools and communities. The project is expected to significantly boost basketball’s popularity and foster talent development in the country.

In addition to the infrastructure investment, the NBA is setting up its East African commercial hub in Nairobi. This move is seen as a major step in expanding the league’s footprint in Africa, positioning Kenya as a key player in the sports business ecosystem on the continent.

President William Samoei Ruto shared the news on social media following a meeting with NBA Deputy Commissioner and Chief Operating Officer Mark Tatum at State House, Nairobi. Tatum was accompanied by five-time NBA champion Derek Fisher and U.S. Ambassador to Kenya, Meg Whitman.

“Met NBA Deputy Commissioner and Chief Operating Officer Mark Tatum, State House Nairobi. He was accompanied by five-time NBA champion Derek Fisher and U.S. Ambassador to Kenya. The NBA will build 100 basketball courts in schools and communities across Kenya in the next decade, a major boost for investment in our country,” President Ruto wrote.

U.S. Ambassador Whitman also expressed excitement over the growing partnership between the United States and Kenya in the realm of sports, highlighting the potential for further collaborations in the creative economy.

“Thrilled to welcome NBA Deputy Commissioner Mark Tatum, NBA-Africa’s Clare Akamanzi, and basketball legend Derek Fisher to Kenya! We’re moving the ball forward on America-Kenya sports partnership and exploring opportunities for creative economy growth. Karibu sana!” Whitman posted.

The initiative comes at a time when the NBA is expanding its presence across Africa, aiming to tap into the continent’s rich pool of athletic talent and foster economic opportunities in sports-related industries. The establishment of the Nairobi hub is expected to attract further investment and increase Kenya’s prominence in global sports development.

‘Today we officially launched our Jr. NBA program with Safaricom here in Nairobi. Through this collaboration, NBA Africa and Safaricom will host four regional Jr. NBA tournaments across Kenya for boys and girls ages 16 and under, culminating with a 16-team national tournament later this year.’ read a statement by NBA Africa

This partnership aligns with broader efforts to enhance sports infrastructure, create opportunities for youth engagement, and promote sports as a driver of economic growth.