On Tuesday, the National Basketball Association announced that former President Barack Obama had become a strategic partner with NBA Africa and a minority stakeholder owner.
According to the news release, the former president “will help advance the league’s social responsibility efforts across the continent, including programs and partnerships that support greater gender equality and economic inclusion.”
CNN reported that Obama had always been a big fan of basketball and played the sport growing up. During his time as commander-in-chief, he displayed his passion for playing. His investment in the league will be used to aid youth and leadership programming for the Obama Foundation across the continent.
“The NBA has always been a great ambassador for the United States—using the game to create deeper connections around the world, and in Africa, basketball has the power to promote opportunity, wellness, equality, and empowerment across the continent,” Obama said.
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“By investing in communities, promoting gender equality, and cultivating the love of the game of basketball, I believe that NBA Africa can make a difference for so many of Africa’s young people. I’ve been impressed by the league’s commitment to Africa, including the leadership shown by so many African players who want to give back to their own countries and communities. That’s why I’m proud to join the team at NBA Africa and look forward to a partnership that benefits the youth of so many countries.”
NBA Africa deals directly with the league’s business in Africa, including the Basketball Africa League (BAL), which held its inaugural season in May.
NBA Africa’s CEO Victor Williams hopes to expand the league’s corporate partnerships, achieve content and media rights, and support local governments seeking to build new basketball arenas.
The inaugural BAL season was broadcast worldwide in 215 countries and territories in 15 languages.
