The Kenya Basketball Federation (KBF) has suspended all league matches between November 26 and December 3 as they prepare to host the Basketball Africa League (BAL) Elite 16 tournament.
The move is geared at rallying nationwide support for Nairobi City Thunder, who will represent the nation in the November 28 — December 3 tournament.
Others are Uganda’s City Oilers, Burundi’s Urunani, MBB from South Africa, Bravehearts Basketball of Zambia, Matero Magic of Malawi and South Sudan’s Fox Basketball.
KBF secretary general Angela Luchivya said: “To ensure that the other teams can come to support Nairobi City Thunder, we are suspending all league games from the November 26-30.”
The matches will be held at the Nyayo Stadium gymnasium and the Kasarani Indoor Arena.
“The government has assured us that the two venues will be ready before the start of the tournament,” added Luchivya.
Teams are expected to check in on November 26.
“Kenya is the most welcoming nation on the continent. Many teams are excited to compete here. The teams are expected to arrive from Tuesday next week but others may opt to arrive even earlier to acclimatise to the weather,” KBF chair Paul Otula said.
“This is a prestigious championship and a game-changer for basketball in the country.”
He praised Thunder for their role in raising the game’s profile after qualifying for the Elite 16 leg.
“Thunder have injected a new lease of life into Kenyan basketball. They have rejuvenated the sport and set a higher standard. This is the team to watch in the tournament,” he noted.
Luchivya acknowledged the logistical and financial demands of hosting such a high-profile event.
“We have secured Kasarani and Nyayo, but there are significant logistical needs, including transportation for officials, VIPs, technical teams and players,” she said.
“Delivering a world-class event
requires collaboration from all
quarters including the government
and basketball stakeholders. We
also call on the media and partners
to help maximise visibility and fan
engagement during the tournament.”
