Basketball Africa League partners with Wave to expand fan engagement in Senegal and Côte d’Ivoire

The Basketball Africa League (BAL) has announced a partnership with Wave, Africa’s leading mobile money platform, to enhance fan engagement and basketball accessibility in Senegal and Côte d’Ivoire. This collaboration introduces new initiatives for the 2025 BAL season, including streetball tournaments, ticket discounts, and youth development programs.

Streetball tournament in Dakar

In the lead-up to the BAL’s Sahara Conference games from April 26 to May 4 at Dakar Arena, the BAL and Wave will host an eight-team 5-on-5 streetball tournament in Dakar. Four teams will be selected by the Senegalese Basketball Federation, while four additional teams will earn spots through an open registration process. The tournament kicks off on March 22 and will conclude with a championship game in early May.

Fans can now register for open team spots here, with selections made by a review committee.

The BAL and Wave join forces to bring basketball closer to fans in Senegal and Côte d’Ivoire.

Exclusive rewards and ticket offers

Wave users will benefit from exclusive rewards, gifts, and special perks through the Wave App rewards program, making it easier to engage with BAL events. Additionally, BAL game tickets for the Sahara Conference in Dakar are now available for purchase at BAL.NBA.com and Bal-teewtickets.com.

Youth basketball investment in Côte d’Ivoire

The partnership extends to Côte d’Ivoire, where the BAL and Wave will unveil a refurbished basketball court in Abidjan in September 2025. The upgraded facility will serve as a key training hub for local athletes. A training camp will also be organized at the court to support young players’ development.

Additionally, one Wave user from Côte d’Ivoire will win an all-expenses-paid trip to South Africa to attend the 2025 BAL Finals in Pretoria on June 14.

Leadership insights on the collaboration

BAL President Amadou Gallo Fall emphasized the league’s commitment to making basketball more accessible across Africa.

“Our collaboration with Wave is part of our commitment to make the BAL and basketball more accessible across the continent. We look forward to working together to provide more opportunities for youth, players, and fans in Senegal and Côte d’Ivoire to engage with the game and our league.”

Wave Senegal General Director El Hadji Malick Guèye highlighted the synergy between basketball and financial inclusion, stating:

“This marketing partnership with the BAL aligns perfectly with Wave’s ambition to expand access to essential services, both in finance and culture. By making the BAL more accessible and launching community-driven initiatives, we reinforce our commitment to a cashless, inclusive, and connected Africa.”

Meanwhile, Wave Côte d’Ivoire General Director Katier Bamba stressed the significance of the Abidjan court refurbishment:

“Basketball is a growing passion in Côte d’Ivoire, and we are thrilled to work with the BAL to provide opportunities that will leave a lasting impact on the community.”