The Basketball Africa League (BAL) is a pioneering professional basketball league established in 2019 through a collaboration between the NBA and FIBA. Headquartered in Dakar, Senegal, the league features 12 club teams from across Africa and represents the NBA’s first league operation outside North America. The BAL builds upon the foundation of club competitions previously organized by FIBA Africa and aims to elevate the sport across the continent.

A standout feature of the BAL is its commitment to community engagement and social impact. The league annually presents the BAL Ubuntu Award, recognizing a player who exemplifies compassion, respect, and humanity through community efforts. Additionally, the BAL has partnered with Special Olympics to host Unified Sports events, promoting inclusion and unity through basketball. These initiatives underscore the BAL's dedication to fostering positive change and empowering communities across Africa.