The National Basketball Association opened its first training academy in Africa

The National Basketball Association opened its first training academy in Africa this week, more precisely in Senegal.

This will expand its presence on the continent and prepare more African players to enter the league, such as know professional players like Minnesota Timberwolves centre-forward Gorgui Dieng.

The NBA academy has trained young players in Senegal since it was founded in 2002. It will build on the Sports for Education and Economic Development (SEED) Project. Twelve players will be selected to join the inaugural class, and will receive scholarships.

The NBA is also counting on the move to help it reach new audiences in Africa. It held its first African exhibition game in Johannesburg, South Africa in 2015 and signed a major trans-African broadcast deal last year.

(Credits: Nellie Peyton and Joe Bavier)