NBA Africa League Announces Expansion With Kenya Franchise for 2027 Season

The Basketball Africa League has officially confirmed that a Nairobi-based franchise will join the competition for the 2027 season as part of its expansion from 12 to 16 teams. The announcement marks the biggest development in Kenyan basketball history and follows years of lobbying by the Kenya Basketball Federation.

The franchise, expected to be named in the coming months following a public competition, will play its home games at the newly renovated Nyayo National Stadium indoor arena. Investment from both local business leaders and international partners has been secured to ensure the team can compete at the highest level from day one.

NBA Africa president confirmed that Kenya's selection was driven by the country's growing basketball culture, strong youth development programs, and the commercial potential of the East African market. Several Kenyan players currently competing in European and American leagues are expected to express interest in returning home.

The expansion also includes new franchises in Tanzania, Ghana, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, bringing the league's footprint to 12 African nations. The BAL has seen growing viewership figures and is positioning itself as the premier professional basketball competition on the continent.