NBA closes elite training academy in Senegal

The NBA has closed its NBA Academy Africa in Senegal, ending an eight-year program that trained approximately 110 players. The academy, which opened in 2018, provided elite coaching, education, and exposure for prospects, including alumni such as Khaman Maluach and Ulrich Chomche.

The league is consolidating its international development efforts by moving its elite training focus to a new global academy in Abu Dhabi. At this new facility, African prospects will compete for spots alongside players from other regions of the world.

While former academy employees have expressed concerns regarding access for young African players who may struggle to train abroad, NBA officials state the move is a strategic shift rather than an abandonment of the continent. The league intends to maintain its presence in Africa through other initiatives, including Basketball Without Borders and the Basketball Africa League.