BAL and Wave CI Unveil Renovated Yopougon Court, Expanding Youth Basketball Access

This renovation forms part of an ambitious vision led by NBA Africa—to build or refurbish 1,000 basketball courts across Africa within the next decade.

The Basketball Africa League (BAL) and Wave Côte d’Ivoire (Wave), the continent’s fastest-growing mobile money platform, have taken another significant step in their shared mission to empower African youth through sports. The two organizations unveiled a fully renovated basketball court at 4 Paniers (Four Baskets) in Abidjan’s bustling Yopougon district, marking a major milestone in a partnership focused on community upliftment, youth development, and expanded access to safe athletic spaces.

This renovation forms part of an ambitious vision led by NBA Africa—to build or refurbish 1,000 basketball courts across Africa within the next decade. By investing in modern, accessible spaces that bring people together, the initiative strengthens the foundation of basketball culture while supporting social development for communities across the continent.

A Celebration Marked by Youth Engagement

The inauguration ceremony was attended by Wave Côte d’Ivoire General Manager Katier Bamba and BAL Head of League Operations Ruben Boumtje-Boumtje, both of whom emphasized the long-term significance of the project. Following the official unveiling, the court quickly came alive with activity. A basketball clinic gathered 50 children aged 16 and under from nearby schools for skills training and mentorship. Later, a competitive U-23 3-on-3 tournament for both men’s and women’s teams showcased local talent and energized spectators.

These activities highlighted the versatility of the new court—not only a place for recreational play, but a platform for structured training, grassroots competitions, and youth engagement programs.

Leadership Messages: Commitment to Community

Boumtje-Boumtje underscored the BAL’s enduring focus on using basketball as a tool for transformation.

“The renovation of this court reflects our commitment to working with partners like Wave to empower the youth of Africa,” he said. “Over the past year, our joint efforts, from hosting tournaments to creating safe spaces for young boys and girls to learn and play, will leave a lasting impact across Côte d’Ivoire and Senegal.”

For Wave Côte d’Ivoire, the project reinforces a corporate mission rooted in social responsibility.

“Taking part in this renovation alongside the BAL reflects Wave's mission to support and invest in the communities we serve,” Bamba noted. “This project is not just about upgrading a court—it is about building confidence and inspiring the next generation for a stronger Côte d’Ivoire tomorrow.”

A Partnership Producing Real Impact

Since launching their collaboration in March 2025, the BAL and Wave Côte d’Ivoire have organized several high-impact initiatives, including the “Tournoi des Quartiers” tournaments in Abidjan and Dakar. Both events featured a remarkable 1,000,000 CFA prize for the winning teams, drawing intense competition and boosting local morale.

In another groundbreaking moment, the partnership sponsored an all-expenses-paid trip for Reine Esther Yao of the U-18 Côte d’Ivoire Women’s National Team to attend the 2025 BAL Finals in Pretoria, South Africa. The opportunity offered her international exposure and a front-row view of elite African basketball, reinforcing the pathways available for young women in the sport.

Strengthening Communities Through Sport

With the Yopougon 4 Paniers court now revitalized, young athletes have a safer and more inspiring environment to train, compete, and build lifelong skills—teamwork, discipline, resilience, and leadership. The facility is expected to become a hub for local programming and youth-focused events, ensuring the benefits extend far beyond the launch day.

Together, BAL and Wave continue to demonstrate how strategic partnerships can deliver meaningful, tangible improvements at the community level. Their work is not only growing the game of basketball—it is nurturing future leaders and fostering unity through shared spaces and shared dreams.