The National Basketball Association (NBA) has officially inaugurated its first Kenyan chapter in Westlands, Nairobi, marking a significant step in expanding its presence and fostering basketball development in the country.
Michael Finley, NBA Kenya’s senior director and national operations lead, emphasized the new office’s commitment to supporting the league’s business ventures and basketball growth in Kenya.
The unveiling ceremony at State House Nairobi was attended by President William Ruto, accompanied by a distinguished NBA delegation, including US Ambassador to Kenya Meg Whitman and Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba.
Michael Finley, with a personal connection to the Kenyan basketball community, expressed excitement about overseeing the new office’s operations.
He aims to have a positive impact on communities by creating opportunities for fans to engage with the NBA and encouraging young people to participate in the sport.
NBA Africa CEO Victor Williams highlighted the immense potential and interest in basketball in Kenya and East Africa.
The Nairobi office is expected to facilitate closer collaboration with local stakeholders, contributing to the growth and accessibility of basketball across the country.
The ceremony featured NBA legends, including five-time NBA champion Ron Harper and Basketball Africa League President Amadou Gallo. Ron Harper commended the NBA’s efforts to develop basketball in Kenya, foreseeing a bright future for the sport in the country.
As part of its commitment to fostering a complete basketball ecosystem, the NBA plans to initiate community-based initiatives in collaboration with the Ministry of Sports, the Ministry of Education, and the Kenya Basketball Federation.
The launch coincides with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the NBA and the Ministry of Sports in September, underscoring the league’s dedication to supporting talent development in Kenya.
President William Ruto praised the establishment of the NBA’s Kenyan office as a historic moment for the nation, emphasizing the potential to transform the lives of youth and enhance talent commercialization in professional basketball.
With this milestone, Kenya joins Egypt, Senegal, South Africa, and Nigeria as one of the African countries hosting NBA offices, reflecting the league’s commitment to advancing basketball on the continent.
The NBA’s presence in Kenya is poised to create new opportunities for basketball enthusiasts and contribute to the sport’s growth in the region.
