A majority of those who grew up in the 1990s and early 2000s are likely to have been at some point told that sports was only a pass time that does not amount to much. With that, the role of sporting activities in personal development, as well as economic growth, was perceived to be negligible.

The inaugural Basketball African League which opened at the Kigali Arena on Sunday, May 16 could be a reason to change the perception.

The league convening 12 teams, each representing one country from Africa is organized by the American National Basketball Association and the Federation International Basketball Associations (FIBA).

The two-week tourney is evidence of the impact sports could have in countries including Rwanda unlocking multiple opportunities.

For starters, it's proof that young women and men can make a living from their talents which is likely to see more investments in grass root and neighborhood sports clubs leading to improvement of skills and capacities. This is also likely to see schools also tailor programmes to develop sporting talent.

According to organisers, BAL tournaments will avail a platform to showcase unique aspects such as music, fashion, talent, art, and technology as well as boost tourism on the African continent. With the tourney followed by fans from across the world, it will allow local producers including those on small scale reach out to a global platform leading to an international market for their wares.

The league has also opened local eyes to the possibilities of specialization in the conferences sector that could create jobs, create job opportunities and give rise to emerging industries. For instance, the sports sector gives life to opportunities such as streaming and televising matches, nutritionists, sports physicians among others.

Sports leagues across the world have been known to play a key role in economic growth with multiple revenue streams ranging from broadcasting rights, sponsorships and advertising among others.

For instance, the Indian cricket league (Indian Premier League (IPL) whose largest following is largely made up of the Asian nation’s citizens was in 2019 estimated to have a value of about $6.8 billion.