Ghana, the defending champions, will kick off their title defence against Liberia in the opening game of the Africa Basketball Festival (ABF) on October 24, 2024, at the University of Ghana Basketball Court. The matchups were announced during a launch event held in Accra on Thursday.

This year’s expanded ABF will feature ten teams, including the United States, last year’s runners-up, who will face France in the opening round. Other participating nations in the four-day tournament include China, Great Britain, Togo, Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast, and Nigeria.

Ghana’s captain, Gabriel Ashaley, expressed optimism ahead of the tournament, saying, “We are confident in retaining the title. We are well-prepared for the challenges, and we have the team to deliver the results.”

In addition to the international matches, there will be a University Contest between the University of Ghana and the Ghana Communication Technology University. All games will be broadcast live on GTV Sports Plus.

Speaking at the launch, Dr. Austin Luguterah, Director of the University of Ghana Sports & Wellness Directorate, emphasized the event’s significance as a “celebration of basketball, fashion, and music,” underscoring the power of sports to unite across borders. He also noted that the competition will provide a platform for discovering new basketball talent.

Yaw Sakyi Afari, CEO of RITE Sports, reflected on the tournament’s growth since its inception in 2019, when it featured just two teams from Accra and Tema. This year’s expansion to ten nations is a major milestone, and he hinted at future plans to involve more teams, fashion brands, and musicians.

The event was officially launched by Ghanaian boxing icon Azumah Nelson, with sponsorship from companies such as Indomie Noodles, GTS Drilling Ghana, GoldGod Entertainment, and GLICO General Insurance, among others.

Running from October 24 to 27, 2024, the Africa Basketball Festival promises to be an exciting blend of sport, culture, and entertainment.