BAL EXPANDS FORMAT TO GROW BASKETBALL ACROSS AFRICA

By: Gyang Dakwo

The Basketball Africa League (BAL) has explained that changes to its competition format are part of a long-term plan to build a stronger league and take basketball closer to fans across Africa.

BAL President Amadou Gallo Fall said the league has grown step by step since it began, and each change has been carefully planned. He said the BAL started with games in one country before moving to more locations across the continent.

“I think the goal is to really perfect the model,” Fall said. “The goal has always been to expand the footprint.”

For the sixth season in 2026, BAL games will be played in South Africa and Morocco, while the finals will hold in Rwanda between March and May. The league said the move is meant to bring the games closer to fans in different regions.

Fall said the decision to introduce three conferences goes beyond planning and travel. He explained that it is also about building stronger ties with local communities.

“These three conferences are going to give us another opportunity to deepen our engagement,” he added.

The BAL President said the wider vision is to grow basketball culture across Africa. He said the league is being used as a platform to improve visibility, attract fans, and encourage more investment in the sport.

With the new format now confirmed, the next season is expected to give more exposure to clubs, players, and host countries as the BAL continues its push to grow professional basketball across the continent.