Basketball Africa League Returns with Expanded Coverage on CANAL+ and Modern Puma Partnership
The Basketball Africa League (BAL) is gearing up for its sixth season, promising an exciting showcase of African basketball talent. The competition will begin on March 27, 2026, and feature games across three key African markets: Pretoria, South Africa; Rabat, Morocco; and Kigali, Rwanda.
CANAL+ to Broadcast All BAL Season 6 Matches Live
Fans across French-speaking sub-Saharan Africa will have access to comprehensive coverage of the BAL as CANAL+ will broadcast 100% of the 42 matches live on CANAL+SPORT 1. The broadcasting package includes expert commentary from Etienne Andurand, Malick Daho, and Jacques Vandescure. Viewers can also look forward to in-depth analysis and highlights through programs like JOUR DE BAL
, SOIR DE BAL
, TALENTS D’AFRIQUE
, and CANAL NBA
.
Puma Named Official Outfitter in Multiyear Deal
Ahead of the 2026 season, the BAL has announced a multiyear collaboration with Puma, making the global sports brand the league’s Official Outfitter. This partnership will see Puma providing apparel and footwear for all BAL teams and officials.
Season 6 Format and Conference Breakdown
Twelve teams, representing 12 African countries, will compete in two conferences: the Kalahari Conference and the Sahara Conference. The Kalahari Conference will be held in Pretoria, South Africa, featuring teams including Al Ahly Ly (Libya), APR (Rwanda), Dar City (Tanzania), Johannesburg Giants (South Africa), Nairobi City Thunder (Kenya), and Petro de Luanda (Angola). The Sahara Conference will take place in Rabat, Morocco, and include Al Ahly (Egypt), ASC Ville de Dakar (Senegal), Club Africain (Tunisia), FUS Rabat (Morocco), Jeunesse Club d’Abidjan (Côte d’Ivoire), and Maktown Flyers (Nigeria).
The top four teams from each conference will advance to the BAL Playoffs, culminating in the Finals in Kigali, Rwanda, from May 22 to 31.
FAQ
- When does BAL Season 6 start? March 27, 2026.
- Where will the games be played? Pretoria, South Africa; Rabat, Morocco; and Kigali, Rwanda.
- Where can I watch the games? Live on CANAL+SPORT 1.
- Who is the official outfitter for the BAL? Puma.
The sixth season of the BAL promises to be a thrilling competition, showcasing the best of African basketball and providing a platform for the continent’s rising stars. With comprehensive coverage on CANAL+ and the backing of a major sports brand like Puma, the league is poised for continued growth and success.