Basketball is growing rapidly in Africa, and the continent is becoming a hub for young talent. With the rise of academies dedicated to nurturing future stars, aspiring players now have access to world-class training, education, and opportunities to compete internationally. Here’s a list of the 10 best basketball academies in Africa, each offering unique programs to help players achieve their dreams.
1. NBA Academy Africa
Location: Saly, Senegal
Website: NBA Academy Africa
NBA Academy Africa is one of the most prestigious basketball academies on the continent. Established in 2017, it focuses on developing top high school-age prospects through a combination of basketball training, academics, and life skills. The academy has produced players like Ibou Badji, who signed with the Portland Trail Blazers, and Ulrich Chomche, who was drafted into the NBA in 2024.
How to Join:
- Apply through the NBA Academy website.
- Attend regional tryouts or Basketball Without Borders events.
Interesting Fact: The academy has partnerships with the Basketball Africa League (BAL), allowing players to gain professional experience through the BAL Elevate program.
Success Story: In 2023, NBA Academy Africa graduate Khadim Rassoul became the first Senegalese player to receive a full scholarship to a Division I college in the U.S.
2. SEED Academy
Location: Thies, Senegal
Website: SEED Academy
SEED Academy, founded in 2003, is one of Africa’s most well-known basketball academies. It focuses on developing future African leaders through basketball and education. The academy has partnerships with the NBA and the Basketball Africa League, providing players with pathways to professional careers.
How to Join:
- Apply online or attend regional tryouts.
- Scholarships are available for talented players.
Interesting Fact: SEED Academy was established by Amadou Gallo Fall, who was the President of the Basketball Africa League.
Impact: Over 90% of SEED Academy graduates have gone on to play college basketball or professionally.
3. Giants of Africa
Location: Multiple countries (Rwanda, Kenya, Nigeria, Senegal, and more)
Website: Giants of Africa
Giants of Africa is a basketball camp that travels across the continent, offering training programs for young players. Founded by Masai Ujiri, who was President of the Toronto Raptors, it is known for its high-quality coaching and focus on skill development.
How to Join:
- Apply online or attend local tryouts.
- Scholarships are available for talented players.
Interesting Fact: The camp has been instrumental in discovering and nurturing young talents across Africa.
Success Story: Giants of Africa alumna Nneka Ogwumike became a WNBA star and Olympic gold medalist.
4. Organized Basketball Network (OBN) Academy
Location: Lagos, Nigeria
Website: OBN Academy
Founded by retired NBA star Obinna Ekezie, OBN Academy is Africa’s first basketball development center. It offers world-class training and scholarship opportunities with partner schools in the U.S. and Canada.
How to Join:
- Apply online through their website.
- Attend tryouts or enroll in their 3-month or 12-month programs.
Interesting Fact: The academy has been commended by the NBA for its impact on youth development.
Success Story: OBN Academy graduate Michael Okeke earned a full scholarship to a U.S. college and now plays professionally in Europe.
5. Hoop Dreams Nigeria
Location: Nationwide (Headquarters in Oyo State)
Website: Hoop Dreams Nigeria
Hoop Dreams Nigeria is a renowned academy that focuses on youth development for players aged 5 to 18. It emphasizes skill development, teamwork, and character building, along with academic mentoring.
How to Join:
- Visit their website to register for programs like the annual City Challenge.
- Attend open tryouts held in various cities.
Interesting Fact: The academy’s founder, Damola Awosika, is a former national team player and has been Vice Chairman of the Oyo State Basketball Association.
Impact: Hoop Dreams Nigeria has trained over 5,000 kids since its inception, with many going on to play in national leagues.
6. AUC Basketball Academy
Location: Cairo, Egypt
Social Media: Instagram
AUC Basketball Academy is known for its professional coaching staff and state-of-the-art facilities. Though based in Cairo, it has outreach programs in Nigeria.
How to Join:
- Contact the academy via email or phone.
- Attend their annual basketball camps.
Interesting Fact: The academy’s head coach, Amr El Gendy, has extensive experience in the Egyptian Professional League.
Impact: AUC graduates have represented Egypt in international competitions, including the FIBA Africa Championships.nted Rwanda in international competitions, including the FIBA Africa Championships.
7. Al Ahly Basketball Academy
Location: Cairo, Egypt
Website: Al Ahly Basketball Academy
Al Ahly Basketball Academy is one of the most prestigious basketball academies in North Africa. It is part of the Al Ahly Sports Club, one of the most successful sports organizations in Africa. The academy focuses on developing young talent and preparing players for professional careers.
How to Join:
- Apply online through their website.
- Attend tryouts or enroll in their training programs.
Interesting Fact: The academy has produced players who have gone on to represent Egypt in international competitions.
Success Story: Al Ahly graduate Assem Marei became a professional player in Europe and a key member of the Egyptian national team.
8. Cape Town Tigers Basketball Academy
Location: Cape Town, South Africa
Social Media: Facebook
Cape Town Tigers Basketball Academy is the development arm of the Cape Town Tigers, one of South Africa’s top basketball teams. The academy focuses on youth development and provides players with opportunities to compete at the highest level.
How to Join:
- Apply online through their website.
- Attend tryouts or enroll in their training programs.
Interesting Fact: The academy has partnerships with U.S. colleges, providing scholarship opportunities for talented players.
Impact: Cape Town Tigers graduates have gone on to play professionally in Africa and Europe.
9. Espoir Basketball Academy
Location: Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
Social Media: Instagram
Espoir Basketball Academy is one of the top basketball academies in Central Africa. It focuses on developing young talent and preparing players for professional careers. The academy has produced players who have gone on to represent the DRC in international competitions.
How to Join:
- Contact the academy via their social media pages.
- Attend tryouts or enroll in their training programs.
Interesting Fact: The academy has a strong focus on community development and uses basketball to promote social change.
Success Story: Espoir graduate Christian Eyenga was drafted into the NBA in 2009.
10. PeacePlayers International
Location: Multiple countries (South Africa, Rwanda, Cyprus, and more)
Website: PeacePlayers International
PeacePlayers International uses basketball to unite kids and educate them. The program focuses on leadership development and conflict resolution, making it unique among basketball academies.
How to Join:
- Apply through their website or attend local events.
Interesting Fact: The program has partnered with Nike to promote equity in communities through sports.
Impact: PeacePlayers has reached over 100,000 kids across Africa, using basketball to bridge divides and foster peace.
Tips for Aspiring Players
- Start Early: Many academies accept players as young as 5 years old. The earlier you start, the better your chances of developing advanced skills.
- Stay Disciplined: Basketball requires dedication. Attend training regularly and practice consistently.
- Focus on Academics: Most academies emphasize education alongside basketball. Maintain good grades to increase your chances of earning scholarships.
- Network: Attend camps, tournaments, and tryouts to connect with coaches and scouts.
Conclusion
Africa’s basketball academies are more than just training centers; they are platforms for young athletes to dream big and achieve their goals. From NBA Academy Africa’s elite programs to community-driven initiatives like PeacePlayers International, these academies are shaping the future of basketball on the continent. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced player, there’s an academy tailored to your needs. Visit their websites or social media pages to learn more and take the first step toward your basketball dreams!
