The league allocated an additional $225 million for the NBA, Women’s National Basketball Association and NBA G League in the 2024–25 season.
Despite this investment, the NBA expects to record an $8 million loss from these ventures, including BAL.
While the league’s overall operating budget has not been disclosed, the financial pressures of participation are clear. Player salaries start at a minimum of $3 900 per season, while qualification campaigns for the BAL can cost between $66 550 and $149 180.
These costs typically cover training and equipment, court rental, visas and unforeseen expenses, as well as logistics and administration. For teams aiming to qualify for the main BAL season, the financial demands are substantial.
In many cases, national federations or governments are expected to shoulder these expenses, but such support has often proven inconsistent. This raises concerns about accessibility and sustainability for clubs across Africa hoping to compete at the highest level of continental basketball.
