ON the island of Cape Verde, off the coast of West Africa, the Praia Basketball League was created with high ambitions.
Founded by Overseas Connection CEO and former professional basketballer, Antonio De Pina, the league has attracted high-level talent from around Africa and North America to Africa’s best kept secret.
The Praia League hosted their inaugural draft on May 16 2021, and held training camps and combines prior for the six teams competing on the tropical Island to scout the athletes for talent.
“This will be the biggest league Africa has ever seen. We will aim to give players the best professional basketball experience,” said CEO De Pina.
The league will feature six teams for its maiden season:
- CV Nationals
- Achada Panthers
- Ponta D’Agua Gorillas
- Achada Grande Volcanico
- Plato Warriors
- Palmarejo Sharks
The league also hopes to attract tourists to view the games happening on the venues throughout the island and economic growth to the entire country.
Praia league has brought a lot of energy to the community and country of Cape Verde during a COVID-19 reality “We’re in a calamity right now, the league has brought excitement as far as giving us something to do” said founder De Pina.
The league has mandated a bubble to isolate players during the coronavirus pandemic. “As of right now [Praia League] we’re going to start in a bubble.
“But outside of the bubble, which is going to be for 12 more days, it’s going to be exciting because people can come and watch the games.”
American businessman and founder of the US-based Junior Basketball League, LaVar Ball, shared positive sentiments on the launch of the Praia League.
“I gotta show you much love on the fact that you’re the founder and the president of Africa’s newest league in Cape Verde,” Ball said in an Instagram video.
Ball is the father of NBA Charlotte Hornets’ LaMelo Ball, who was voted the 2021 NBA Rookie of the Year.
“That’s right!” he added, “African NBA. Go do your thing, I love your style!” he added.
The Praia League will tip-off on July 3rd with the Achada Grande Volcanico taking on the Achada Panthers.
